Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Bakersfield

Under California law, you may be entitled to an array of benefits after being hurt in an employment-related accident. A successful claim could pay for your medical bills, replace your lost wages, and provide you with additional resources as you recover from your injury.

You will only be able to recover workers’ compensation benefits in Bakersfield if you qualify. The process of filing a claim can be complicated, but our skilled workers’ compensation attorneys could answer your questions and ensure you meet the qualifications for benefits.

How To Recover Benefits

The workers’ compensation system is intended to provide workers who have been hurt on the job with financial support—even if they were at fault. These benefits can pay for medical bills and replace lost wages, but only when a worker qualifies. Securing this compensation can make a significant difference in the life of an injured employee and those who depend on them.

Fortunately, most employers in California are required to provide their employees with coverage. Even individuals who are considered independent contractors could still legally qualify as an employee and be eligible for a benefits claim.

To recover an award, a hurt worker must first notify their supervisor of the accident within 30 days. There are also deadlines for filing the claim with the insurance company. Our attorney could ensure you comply with all the requirements for Bakersfield workers’ compensation benefits.

Types of Compensation

A successful workers’ compensation claim in Bakersfield could involve different types of benefits. The following are the most common examples.

Medical Benefits

One of the most important aspects of the workers’ compensation system is that it directly pays for any necessary medical care rather than requiring the worker to cover the costs and seek reimbursement. Furthermore, coverage for a workplace injury can remain available for as long as it is medically necessary, which could be for a lifetime of medical care.

To help ensure workers avoid covering costs themselves, they also have the right to seek mileage based on the cost of traveling to and from their appointments.

Disability Payments

Another key component of a successful workers’ compensation claim is disability payments. Disability benefits are paid on a weekly basis, and the amount depends on the wages a person earned prior to their injury. There are also minimum and maximum payments allowed under the law.

Disability payments come in different forms. Workers could be eligible for temporary benefits if they are expected to recover, or permanent compensation if they are not. Benefits also vary depending on whether the condition leaves an employee fully or partially disabled.

Death Benefits

In the unfortunate case of a fatal accident, death benefits are available. They can cover funeral and burial costs of up to $10,000. Compensation for the surviving family based on lost future wages is also available but is capped at $320,000.

Talk to an Attornet in Bakersfield About Workers’ Compensation Benefits

If you were hurt while at work, paying your bills and receiving the medical care you need can seem impossible. Fortunately, compensation may be available regardless of who was at fault for your accident.

Although you have the right to seek workers’ compensation benefits in Bakersfield, success is never guaranteed. The process of recovering benefits can be a challenge, especially without the support of skilled legal counsel. Reach out to our legal team right away to learn about your options during a private consultation.