Healthcare workers often work long shifts performing strenuous tasks, increasing the potential for injury. From back injuries from lifting patients to slip and fall injuries caused by rushing across slick floors, a single incident can lead to costly medical care and substantial time out of work. Other hazards for healthcare workers include hazardous substances and the emotional toll of caring for individuals with serious illnesses. Workers’ compensation in California is designed to compensate employees for the costs associated with any injury sustained while performing work duties.
However, the process of filing a claim and getting the care you need can be complex. If you were injured while performing your duties as a healthcare professional, a San Bernardino healthcare workers’ compensation lawyer can help you get the benefits you are entitled to. Seeking legal representation from a talented workers’ compensation attorney immediately after your injury can help you ensure your employer and their insurance company will handle your claim as required by California state laws.
Understanding Workers’ Comp Benefits in California
California’s workers’ compensation program provides medical coverage and other benefits to injured employees regardless of fault. This distinction is especially important in the healthcare industry, where injuries can occur even in well-maintained environments. Employers with one or more employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance, making nearly all healthcare workers eligible for benefits when injured while performing job-related duties.
Workers’ compensation benefits cover injuries caused by a single incident, exposure to harmful substances, or repetitive stress injuries that develop over time. Depending on an employee’s injury, benefits will cover medical costs, temporary or permanent disability, and job displacement costs. Workers can also receive 60-70% of their wages for time missed from work during recovery.
The Role of a Healthcare Worker’s Compensation Lawyer in Filing a Claim
Employees do not have to obtain legal representation to file a workers’ compensation claim in San Bernardino, but having a legal professional on your side can significantly reduce the chances of a claim denial. Filing a successful claim requires strict adherence to regulations and deadlines. Errors on a form or missing a critical deadline can lead to delays or even a claim denial. A dedicated health care workers’ compensation attorney in San Bernardino provides the following services to help workers get the benefits they are entitled to.
Assistance Filing a Timely and Accurate Claim
To qualify for workers’ compensation, employees must report the injury to their employer within 30 days of the incident or the discovery of the injury or illness. The formal claim must be filed within one year. Meeting these deadlines can be challenging in cases involving cumulative trauma, delayed diagnoses, or chronic conditions. An attorney can evaluate the circumstances early and help ensure the claim is filed within the required time frame.
Advocating for Employee Rights to Benefits
Insurance companies frequently deny workers’ compensation claims due to insufficient evidence. They may challenge the severity of an injury or dispute its connection to the employee’s job duties. A knowledgeable healthcare workers’ compensation attorney can gather essential medical documentation to show the extent of the injury and link it to workplace tasks. Legal counsel can also negotiate with the insurance provider and assist the employee in appealing the denial within the applicable deadlines.
Contact an Experienced San Bernardino Healthcare Workers’ Comp Lawyer to Learn About Your Rights to Benefits
If you have been injured performing your duties as a healthcare professional, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits for medical costs, lost wages, and partial or full disability. However, navigating the workers’ compensation program is not always easy. An experienced San Bernardino healthcare workers’ compensation lawyer at the Law Offices of Anthoney E Gluck, PC, can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of filing a claim. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
(909) 885-1620