TOP RANKING PASADENA FIRM IN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
Employees who are injured on the job may face challenges proving their injury is work-related, navigating California’s complex claim process and strict deadlines, and dealing with delays or denials from insurance companies. Fear of employer retaliation for reporting an injury, unfair denials, and pre-existing conditions can also complicate claims.
If you were recently injured at work, consider speaking with an attorney at Oktanyan Law, APC about your case for benefits. A Pasadena workers’ compensation lawyer at our firm can gather critical evidence, including comprehensive medical records, witness statements, and vocational assessments, to strengthen your claim for financial recovery. If you are facing obstacles getting fair compensation on your own, we can challenge the insurance company’s tactics and advocate aggressively for a fair lump-sum settlement or structured payment plan that covers all your needs.
Understanding the Workers’ Compensation System
In California, the workers’ compensation system is a no-fault insurance program that provides benefits to employees with job-related injuries or illnesses. In exchange, the employee generally cannot sue the employer for injuries sustained on the job. However, it may be possible to file a separate personal injury lawsuit against a negligent third party that caused your incident.
California law requires all employers, even those with only one employee, to carry workers’ compensation insurance. You must report the injury or illness to your employer within 30 days of the injury. The company is required to provide you with a claim form within one working day of receiving the report, which must be completed and returned to officially start your claim.
Your employer’s insurance carrier is required to authorize up to $10,000 in medical treatment within one day of receiving the claim form, even while the claim is being investigated. The insurance company typically has a 90-day window to investigate the claim and decide whether to accept or deny it. If they do not deny it within 90 days, the injury is generally presumed to be covered.
Treatment continues until the employee reaches Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). At this stage, a doctor evaluates any permanent impairment and may assign a Permanent Disability rating. At this point, your Pasadena work injury attorney can begin negotiating with the insurance company for fair and full workers’ compensation benefits for your injuries.
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What Benefits Are Available in a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Our experienced Pasadena workers’ comp attorney can help you secure various benefits, including medical care for work-related injuries, temporary disability payments for lost wages during recovery, and permanent disability benefits in the event that your injury causes lasting impairments.
Temporary disability provides about two-thirds of your average weekly gross wage while you are recovering and unable to work. Payments typically last until your doctor says you are able to return to work, up to a maximum time limit.
Permanent disability provides additional compensation for lasting impairments that affect your ability to earn a living after your condition is stable. Supplemental job displacement benefits for retraining and reimbursement for mileage to medical appointments may also be recoverable.
Workers Compensation Settlements
The two main types of workers’ compensation settlements in California are Compromise and Release (C&R) and Stipulation and Award (S&A). A C&R is a one-time lump sum payment that closes the claim and ends future benefits, while a Stipulation and Award involves regular payments based on an agreed-upon disability rating and may cover ongoing medical care.
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied or the insurance company offers an unfair settlement, we can help you appeal the decision and even take the case to court if necessary.
Enlist the Help of a Pasadena Workers' Compensation Attorney at Oktanyan Law, APC
The insurance company has a team of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize any workers’ compensation payout you receive. Hiring your own Pasadena workers’ compensation lawyer will ensure your rights are protected by a legal advocate focused solely on your best interests.
We will fight for the full and fair benefits you are owed so you can focus on your recovery without the stress of managing a complex legal case. Contact Oktanyan Law, APC today to receive your free consultation and learn how we can help with your case.
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