Glendale Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Glendale, CA

If you suffered an injury or illness while you were working, no matter what your job, you are likely entitled to workers’ compensation. This state program can help you receive payments for your medical bills and other expenses when your injuries prevent you from working. No matter who is at fault, you may have grounds to file a claim to help you recover and get back to work.

At the Wax & Wax, A Law Corporation, the partners are experienced in workers’ compensation. Our workers’ compensation lawyers in Glendale have 100 years of combined experience helping clients seek compensation for their workplace injuries. Our team believes that responsive communication and a keen focus on your needs are important to get you the results that your case deserves and we personally handle each case because our clients are always our top priority.

Understanding Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to provide financial support for employees who have been injured or become ill as a result of their job. However, many employees are not aware of all the benefits they are entitled to receive. Our Glendale workers’ compensation attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and maximize your benefits.

Here are some of the benefits you may be entitled to receive:

• Medical expenses related to your injury or illness
• Lost wages due to time off work
• Disability benefits for long-term injuries
• Vocational rehabilitation and retraining
• Death benefits for surviving family members in the event of a work-related fatality

It is important to note that every case is unique, and your specific benefits may vary depending on the circumstances of your injury or illness. Our attorneys can help you navigate the complex workers’ compensation system and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

Local Resources & Support for Workers’ Compensation in Glendale, CA

Living and working in Glendale, CA, offers a unique set of challenges and opportunities. As a bustling city within the greater Los Angeles area, Glendale is home to a diverse workforce. Whether you are employed in the retail sector at the Americana at Brand, working in healthcare at Adventist Health Glendale, or part of the city’s vibrant entertainment industry, workplace injuries can happen to anyone. Understanding the local resources available to you can make a significant difference in your workers’ compensation journey.

One of the key local entities you should be aware of is the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). While our firm is not directly affiliated with the DWC, this state agency plays a crucial role in overseeing workers’ compensation claims and ensuring that injured workers receive the benefits they are entitled to. Additionally, the City of Glendale’s Community Development Department offers various resources and support for local businesses and employees, including information on workplace safety and injury prevention.

In Glendale, traffic congestion and construction projects are common, leading to a higher risk of workplace accidents, especially for those in transportation and construction roles. If you find yourself injured on the job, navigating the workers’ compensation process can be daunting. Our team at Wax & Wax, A Law Corporation understands the specific challenges faced by Glendale residents and is here to help you every step of the way.

We know that dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of an uncertain future can be overwhelming. Our attorneys are committed to providing personalized support tailored to the needs of our local community. From understanding the nuances of California workers’ compensation laws to representing you in hearings, we are dedicated to ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve.

If you have been injured at work in Glendale, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of the workers’ compensation system and provide the local experience you need to secure your financial future.

Common Challenges in Glendale Workers’ Compensation Cases

Workers’ compensation claims can present unique challenges in Glendale, from issues related to the diverse industries present to the nuances of local employment practices. Employees may encounter resistance from employers or their insurance carriers who may dispute the validity of claims, question the severity of injuries, or argue over the details surrounding the incident.

Traffic-related workplace incidents are common due to Glendale’s busy roads and significant commuter traffic, especially for those driving for work or using company vehicles. Construction and manual labor roles also see frequent cases, with injuries ranging from strains and sprains to more serious conditions arising from machinery accidents. Dealing with such scenarios requires an attorney’s strategic approach informed by extensive local experience, ensuring that your case progresses smoothly through the system.

If you have been injured at work in Glendale, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of the workers’ compensation system and provide the local experience you need to secure your financial future. Industrial accidents are also common in this region, making awareness and preparedness key elements in addressing workplace risks.

What Should I Do if I’ve Been Injured at Work?

After an injury, it is important that you take the time you need to recover. Many workplace accidents can lead to serious complications if not properly treated. Workers’ compensation is in place to ensure you get the medical care and wage compensation you need during the recovery process.

If you’ve been in an accident, it is important that you take the following steps:

• Report the injury to your supervisor, manager, or boss
• Seek medical attention or call 911 if it is an emergency
• Fill out a workers’ compensation claim with your employer
• Wait for your claim to be accepted or denied by your employer’s insurance company

If your claim was denied, you have the right to fight the decision. Paperwork must be filed within strict deadlines, however, so it is important that you act quickly. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you avoid mistakes, file an application for adjudication, navigate an MMI conflict, make an appointment with a qualified medical evaluator (QME) for an evaluation, and represent you at the hearing in front of a judge.

It is also important to hire an attorney if you ever experience any disputes with the claims process. A seasoned lawyer can assist with the appeals process and work to make sure you are receiving the benefits to which you are entitled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose my own doctor for a workers’ compensation claim?

In California, if you have predesignated your personal doctor, in many cases, you can receive initial treatment from them. If your employer’s insurance company has a Medical Provider Network (MPN) or a health care organization (HCO) in place, or you haven’t predesignated a doctor, then a claims administrator can select a medical provider for you. Only after 30 days have passed can you then select another medical provider to go to for treatment, usually speaking. This can be a complicated issue, and it is important to understand your options and rights when it comes to selecting a doctor for your workers’ compensation claim.

What is the timeline for filing a workers’ compensation claim in Glendale, CA?

In California, you generally have one year from the date of your injury or illness to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, you only have 30 days to report the injury to your employer. Matters are more complex in cases of mental injury or repetitive injury, for example, and determining the deadlines to meet can be tricky. It’s important to start the workers’ comp process and speak to a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure a timely processing of your claim and receiving the benefits you are entitled to.

Can I receive workers’ compensation benefits if my injury was due to my own negligence?

Workers’ compensation benefits are typically provided regardless of who was at fault for the injury. Even if your injury was a result of your own negligence, you may still be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in California. It is important to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to understand your rights in such cases.

Are mental health conditions covered under workers’ compensation in Glendale, CA?

Yes, mental health conditions can be covered under workers’ compensation in California if they are a result of workplace stress, trauma, or other work-related factors. It is essential to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney to navigate the complexities of filing a claim for mental health conditions.

What should I do if I’m injured at work?

Report the injury to your employer (by talking to your supervisor) as soon as possible. This helps prevent problems and delays in receiving benefits, which includes the medical care you will need. In addition to reporting the injury, get emergency treatment if needed or find a healthcare provider from your employer. You now have documentation of your injuries for your workers’ compensation claim. Remember: In most cases, you must report the injury to your employer within 30 days in order to be eligible for workers’ comp benefits.

How long do workers’ compensation claims take? How much do they cost?

The answers to these questions depend on your individual circumstances. For example, if you were severely injured and require long and complicated medical treatment, your case may require more time to settle. Medical expenses and attorney fees come out of your settlement and are paid by your employer’s insurance company. The fee for your legal representation must be approved by the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board.

How long do I have to report my injury?

Generally, you have 30 days from the date of your injury to report it to your employer. You also have to file your workers’ comp claim, known as the DWC-1 claim form in California, in this time period. If your injury occurs over time, you have 30 days from the date you suffer a temporary disability and realize that it was due to a work-related injury.

What happens if I don’t report it on time?

You might not be able to collect workers’ comp benefits, unless you can show that your employer knew or should have known about your injury within the 30-day period. If you simply didn’t report it, you should talk to a workers’ compensation attorney to figure out other options.

What benefits am I entitled to?

Workers’ comp insurance provides medical care, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability benefits, supplemental job displacement benefits, and death benefits.

How much will I be paid while on workers’ comp?

Wage replacement benefits can become available to you through workers’ compensation if you miss a week or more of work because of your injury. Under California’s workers’ compensation rules, you must be paid two-thirds of your average weekly wages that you were earning before the accident. Your employer might have a disability pay leave program to bring your wages up to 100% of what you were earning, but this is something that varies from employer to employer.

How often do workers’ comp checks show up?

Workers’ compensation pay is delivered to you once every two weeks like many employers pay their employees. However, it can be more than two weeks before you see your first payment. Typically, it takes three workweeks to get a benefits paycheck because you need to miss at least one week of work to even become eligible for wage replacement benefits.

Will my workers’ comp be paid in a lump-sum settlement?

Not all workers’ compensation claims will reach a settlement. Many are paid normally, and a few will have to go to court to reach a fair resolution. But, if your case is going to settle, then it could be paid in a lump-sum settlement that gives you all of your owed benefits at once. On the other hand, you could agree to a structured settlement that gives you monthly payments. You can talk to your attorney about your options, and to see if one would be better than the other.

Are my workers’ comp benefits taxed?

The financial benefits that you can collect through workers’ compensation are typically untaxable. The money you are given could affect your taxes, though, as it will impact your total annual income. Also, if you are placed on light-duty work and allowed to earn a paycheck while still on workers’ compensation benefits, then those benefits might be taxed.

Can I get benefits to help me find a new job?

Your employer should try to find you light-duty work that you can complete without exacerbating your injuries. If they cannot, then you might qualify for vocational retraining benefits through workers’ compensation. The programs available to you might vary, but they should be designed to help you start a new job position at your place of employment or possibly even begin a new career elsewhere.

Can I see my own doctor?

In California, the doctor you choose must be your regular primary care physician. If your health insurance is through your employer and you have not predesignated a doctor, you’ll likely need to see a doctor chosen by your employer or in your employer’s healthcare network.

Do I pay copays, deductibles & other costs?

No, your medical benefits through workers’ compensation should cover all aspects and costs of your medical care. Copays, deductibles, and prescription costs should be fully covered, so you pay nothing from your own finances. You can also get reimbursed for travel costs to and from the doctor, like the money you spent on gas in your car.

Can my employer try to stop my workers’ comp claim?

No, your employer cannot do anything to try to interfere with your workers’ compensation claim. They are required to adhere to the state’s reporting requirements and comply with further instructions. Your employer is allowed to challenge your claim as the law allows, but they cannot make unlawful or unregulated decisions that could prevent you from getting your workers’ comp benefits.

Can my employer fire me while I’m on disability?

It is illegal to terminate or discriminate against an employee who is injured at work and on disability. If you are fired, you may have your compensation increased by one half up to a maximum of $10,000 plus costs up to $250, reinstatement of your job, and reimbursement for lost wages and work benefits.

What if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?

If your claim is rejected, you can request a hearing before the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. While you’re not required to bring a lawyer, it definitely helps, especially if your injury is serious.

How can an attorney help me?

Workers’ compensation cases can be complex and often require an in-depth knowledge of the laws to help you get the settlement your injuries deserve. A Workers’ Compensation attorney, like those at Wax & Wax, A Law Corporation, has years of case work and has demonstrated results in a number of claims. This experience, as well as continual education in the field, can benefit your case greatly.

Common Workers’ Compensation Mistakes

Obtaining workers’ compensation benefits can be a complex process, and simple mistakes can lead to denied claims for even the most deserving parties. Some common mistakes people make in their claims include:

1. Not Reporting Your Injury. It stands to reason that you must report your injury to your employer in order to collect benefits from their insurance company, but many people fail to take this crucial step. As a best practice, you should report even minor injuries to your employer, even if you think they will heal quickly.
2. Reporting Your Injury Verbally. When reporting the accident or injury to your employer, it is absolutely crucial to obtain a written copy of the accident report. Your employer should provide you with a claim form – if they do not, consider reporting the injury via e-mail so that you have a written record of the report.
3. Waiting To Seek Medical Care. When you postpone medical care, the insurance company often takes this as a sign that you aren’t seriously injured. They typically will use this to deny or mitigate the value of your claim, so it’s crucial to visit a doctor as soon as possible after suffering an injury. It is also vital that you go to all follow-up appointments and physical therapy to reinforce your case.
4. Changing Your Story. It’s important to be very honest and specific about your injuries and limitations, as any inconsistencies in your story can be used to deny your claim. It is not unheard of for insurance companies to hire a private investigator to keep an eye on you, and they will look for any evidence that your injuries weren’t as serious as you claimed.
5. Not Hiring An Experienced Workers’ Comp Lawyer. Perhaps the most important thing you can do to strengthen your claim is to hire an experienced Glendale workers’ compensation attorney. At Wax & Wax, A Law Corporation, our team has more than 100 years of collective experience that can be put to work for you. When you choose our firm you can rest easy, knowing that your claim is in the hands of an attorney who truly cares about getting you the money you deserve.

We Are Here When You Need Us Most

Our workers’ compensation attorneys handle every case. You are never passed off to a paralegal or legal assistant. We take the time to conduct thorough interviews with our clients to understand their needs and the extent of their injuries. At Wax & Wax, A Law Corporation, we strive for the highest level of integrity and ethical standards, and our reputation and respect within the workers’ compensation community display our commitment and service to our clients.