What to Expect If You Are Injured On the Job in California
A workplace accident can be devastating leaving you unable to provide for your family. One of the first questions you may have is how to get your medical bills covered or payment for your accident-related losses. In general, there are legal avenues for obtaining compensation after an on-the-job injury. An attorney can help you understand your rights and determine your legal options.
At Levin & Nalbandyan, we represent injured workers in workers’ compensation claims and personal injury lawsuits. Our firm has over a decade of experience obtaining compensation on behalf of clients throughout Los Angeles and we will work tirelessly for you and your family. If you were injured at work, contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to schedule a free consultation.
What’s the Difference Between a Workers’ Compensation Claim and a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
California Labor Code Section 3700 requires employers to have workers’ compensation, even if they only have one employee. Workers’ compensation provides benefits for injured workers regardless of fault.
Therefore, if you are injured on the job you are likely entitled to compensation through workers’ compensation even if you were to blame for the accident. It also protects an employer from liability, meaning that you likely cannot sue your employer or a coworker for your injuries.
Personal injury lawsuits, on the other hand, can only be filed if another person or entity was at least partially responsible for your injuries. In most cases, the lawsuit would be filed against someone other than your employer.
When Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
You might be entitled to damages through a personal injury lawsuit if a third party, such as a property owner or another motorist caused you harm. The best way to determine whether you should pursue a legal claim based on personal injury is by contacting an attorney.
Unlike in a workers’ compensation claim, you might be able to claim non-economic damages such as compensation for pain and suffering in a personal injury lawsuit. Personal injury lawsuits, however, may be more difficult to win since you must prove liability.
What Are Common Workers’ Compensation Claims?
Any time you are injured while at work, you might be able to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.
Common workers’ compensation claims in California:
- Back and neck pain
- Puncture wounds
- Broken bones and fractures
- Injuries related to falling objects
- Spinal cord trauma
- Head injuries
- Loss of a limb (amputation)
Any time you are injured in a workplace accident, you should speak to a workers’ compensation lawyer. Even if your initial claim was denied, you may be eligible for an appeal. Do not wait until it is too late as you only have a limited amount of time to file a claim.
Hiring a Workplace Accident in Los Angeles
Were you injured on the job in Los Angeles? Contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to schedule a free consultation. Our lawyers will work hard to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of injured workers throughout Los Angeles. Call now to get started.
