Understanding Your Rights If You Were Injured on the Job in LA
If you are injured on the job in Los Angeles, you are likely entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ comp can help cover your medical bills, lost wages, and more, but you only have a limited amount of time to file a claim. Understanding your rights can be critical to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve after a workplace injury.
At Levin & Nalbandyan, we provide dedicated, compassionate representation for individuals who have been injured while at work in Los Angeles. Our lawyers have recovered millions on behalf of our clients. We will fight to ensure you get the maximum amount of benefits allowed by state law. If you were injured on the job in LA, contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to schedule a free consultation.
What to Do If You Were Injured on the Job
Being injured in a workplace accident can be terrifying. You may be unsure of whether you can continue working or if you have enough money to cover your medical bills. As an employee in California, you are likely able to receive workers’ compensation benefits for any injuries on the job. However, you only have a limited amount of time to report the injury.
If you were injured on the job you must:
- Report the injury
- Seek medical treatment
- Contact an attorney
- File a claim
Failure to act quickly can result in your workers’ compensation claim being rejected or denied. At all times you should exercise your right to legal representation. An attorney can help ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to through workers’ comp.
Reporting the Injury
If you are injured at work you need to file a report with your supervisor as soon as possible. Failure to file a report within 30 days could result in the loss of your right to benefits. Filing a report immediately helps avoid delays and ensures that you receive the care you need.
Filing a report with your employer helps ensure you receive:
- Prompt medical treatment
- A partial replacement of your wages
- The resources you need to return to work
It is important to file your report in writing and to keep a detailed record of anyone that you speak with regarding your injuries.
Seeking Medical Treatment
If you are seriously injured at work a coworker should call 9-1-1, so that you can receive emergency treatment. Even if you are not taken to the emergency room, you should still be seen by a doctor as soon as possible. When receiving treatment, it is imperative to let the healthcare provider know that the injury was job-related.
Contacting an Attorney
As soon as possible after your injury, it is strongly recommended that you speak to an attorney. An attorney can help you gather the appropriate information before filing your workers’ compensation claim.
Filing a Claim
Once you report the injury to your supervisor, you should receive a claim form for workers’ compensation benefits. Your employer should give you a copy or mail it within one working day of when they received notice of your injury. If they do not provide you with a form, you can download the DWC 1. You need to complete the “employee” section. Failure to timely or properly file the document can result in a delay or denial of your claim.
Hiring a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Los Angeles
Were you injured while at work in Los Angeles? Contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you get the compensation you need and deserve.
