What to know about workers’ compensation after a work injury
Workplace accidents are too common in Los Angeles. Injuries can be life-threatening and impact the rest of your life. The good news is that workers’ compensation benefits can help pay for injured workers’ medical care, lost wages and disability benefits in some cases.
You have the right to file for benefits after being injured in a work-related accident. Your employer is required to pay workers’ compensation benefits, and you should get medical treatment as necessary to help you recover. Understanding the workers’ compensation process and your rights can help you be prepared in the event you are injured in the future.
Who can obtain workers’ compensation benefits?
Any employee who is injured while working is able to apply for workers’ compensation benefits. This may include employees listed as independent contractors in some cases.
Injuries can have a lasting impact on your life so it is important to get the medical care you need. However, the medical provider you can see varies depending on your benefits. If you have predesignated your personal physician with your employer you will be able to continue seeing him or her for your treatment. You must provide your employer in writing the name and address of your physician before you are injured in order to have your physician or medical group be considered predesignated in California.
Injuries in the workplace are serious. Some of the most common workplace injuries involve:
- Falls
- Car accidents
- Chemical burns or toxic exposure
- Repetitive injuries such as carpal tunnel or back pain
- Hearing loss
You have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim. In fact, it is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for reporting your injury and filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you have been injured at work, consider consulting an attorney to protect your rights and to guide you through the process.