Each year 4.1 million employees in the United States experience a serious work-related injury or illness. Since 2010, California has seen an increase in worker’s compensation claims, primarily in the Los Angeles area. According to Business Insurance, insurance claims have increased by 19% in Los Angeles County and by 14% in the Los Angeles Basin over the past three years. Whether employees are injured while handling hazardous materials, fall off a ladder, or get in a car accident while running errands for their employer, getting injured on the job means they are applicable for workers’ compensation insurance.
Most California employers are required by law to have insurance to cover potential work-related injuries. This insurance provides injured employees with the proper medical treatment, the wages that were lost during their recovery, compensation for permanent disability, and programs to help them return to work. If you were injured on the job or believe you have an occupational illness, you should file a claim with your employer right away.
If your employer or its insurance company is delaying or denying your claim, you should contact workers’ compensation attorneys in Los Angeles to help you receive the benefits you are entitled to. You should also hire an experienced attorney if you experience one of the following:
- If you are not receiving the appropriate medical treatment on time
- If you are not compensated for your medical bills
- If you are not getting compensated for lost wages during your recovery
- If your employer retaliates after you file a claim, such as through decreasing your hours or pay or by firing you
- If you have a third-party claim
- If your injury is limiting you from performing your job or returning to work
If you believe you need legal representation, most workers’ compensation lawyers offer free consultations to review your claim. And, attorneys will not get paid unless they win your case for you. So, don’t wait. Contact an attorney today.