The Process Of Filing For Workers’ Compensation In California
Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to help injured employees seek medical treatment, but it also covers much more.
Every year in the United States, approximately 3.3 million people fall victim to a workplace accident, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. While some California workers experience minor injuries that require medical care and treatment, other people may suffer from catastrophic injuries that they must live with for the rest of their lives. Workers’ compensation is designed to provide benefits to employees who are injured on the job. It also protects employers and other employees by limiting the amount of money people can receive from a workplace injury.
What does workers’ compensation cover?
Workers’ compensation covers medical care for injured employees, including surgical treatment, dental work, physical therapy, prescription medication, medical devices and home nursing care, according to the California Division of Workers’ Compensation. This program also give employees access to permanent or temporary disability benefits depending on whether or not the injured person is expected to recover.
If an employee is unable to continue working in the same industry as a result of their injuries, workers’ compensation has benefits available that will help them relearn a new skill. In some situations, workers’ comp benefits are available to spouses and children of people who died on the job or passed away due to an injury they received while working.
Filling out a claim form
Employers have exactly one business day after learning that an employee has been injured, to issue them a workers’ compensation claim form, according to the California Division of Workers’ Compensation. The injured worker must then fill out the employee section of the claim form and return it to the employer. After the employer fills out their assigned section of the claim form, they will submit it to the insurance company, which will usually contact the worker within 2 weeks to inform them of the claim’s status. Once the claim is filed with the employer, the employee is able to seek medical attention for their work injuries, even if they have not received an approval or denial on their claim.
Partnering with a workers’ compensation attorney
It is imperative that your workers’ compensation claim form is filled out correctly in order to increase the likelihood that your benefits will be approved. One small error may result in the denial of a claim, which can lengthen the entire process and prevent you from getting your benefits in a timely manner. A workers’ compensation attorney can ensure your claim is organized properly and walk you through the entire process. They will help you get the benefits you deserve for your workplace injury.
Keywords: workers’ compensation, job, injury