Inglewood Workers’ Compensation Attorney

If you have been injured while on the job, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced Inglewood workers’ compensation attorney. The workers’ compensation system can be complex, and having an accident lawyer who understands the process can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

At Pratt Law Corporation, we are adept at helping injured workers in Inglewood, CA, and the surrounding areas receive the workers’ compensation they deserve for their workplace injuries. Our team of dedicated workers’ compensation lawyers has a deep understanding of California’s workers’ compensation laws and can guide you through the processing of filing a workers’ compensation claim.

We know how difficult it can be to deal with a workplace injury and the subsequent financial and emotional stress. Our goal is to alleviate some of that stress by taking care of the legal process on your behalf. We will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and medical expenses.

If you or a loved one has suffered a workplace injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to an Inglewood workers’ compensation attorney at Pratt Law Corporation. During the consultation process, you will speak with a workers’ compensation lawyer who can discuss your case with you and help you understand your legal options. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve for your workers’ compensation case.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. This means employees do not have to prove that their employer was at fault for their injury or illness to receive benefits. Instead, employees can file a workers’ compensation claim and receive benefits regardless of who was at fault.

What Types of Benefits Are Available?

Under California workers’ compensation law, injured employees are entitled to various types of benefits, including:

• Medical treatment. Workers’ compensation insurance covers medical treatment, including doctor visits, hospitalization, medication, and physical therapy, for employees who are injured on the job.
• Temporary disability benefits. If you cannot work for a certain period due to your work-related injury, you may be eligible to receive temporary disability benefits, which typically amount to two-thirds of your weekly wage.
• Permanent disability benefits. If your injury or illness results in a permanent disability, you may be entitled to receive permanent disability benefits. The amount of these benefits varies depending on the severity of the disability and the employee’s average weekly wage.
• Supplemental job displacement benefits. If you are unable to return to your job due to your injury or illness, you may be eligible to receive supplemental job displacement benefits to help pay for retraining or education.
• Death benefits. If a worker dies as a result of a work injury or illness, workers’ compensation will provide death benefits to the worker’s dependents. These benefits include funeral expenses, a burial allowance, and ongoing payments to the dependents.

What Does a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Do?

A workers’ compensation attorney helps injured workers navigate the workers’ compensation system and obtain the benefits they are entitled to. Some of the tasks a workers’ compensation attorney may perform include:

• Assisting with the initial claim. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you file a claim for benefits, gather evidence to support your claim, and ensure all necessary forms are completed correctly.
• Negotiating with the insurance company. A workers’ compensation attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to make sure you receive the full benefits you are entitled to, including medical treatment, temporary disability payments, permanent disability payments, and supplemental job displacement benefits.
• Appealing denied claims. If your claim is denied, a workers’ compensation attorney can help you appeal the decision and pursue the benefits you deserve.
• Representing you at hearings. If your claim is disputed, a workers’ compensation attorney can represent you at hearings before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) and present evidence to support your claim.
• Providing legal guidance. A workers’ compensation attorney can provide valuable legal guidance and advice throughout the claims process, helping to protect your rights.

What Is the Workers’ Compensation Claims Process in CA?

The workers’ compensation claims process is designed to provide benefits and medical care to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. It typically involves the following steps:

• Reporting the injury. If you are injured while on the job, it is important to report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. You should provide your employer with details about the injury, including when and where it occurred.
• Seeking medical treatment. You should seek medical treatment for your injury as soon as possible. Your employer may have a list of approved healthcare providers you can see.
• Filing a claim. Your employer should provide you with a workers’ compensation claim form (DWC-1) within one working day of your injury. You must complete and return the form to your employer to start the claims process.
• Investigation. Your employer’s insurance company will investigate your claim and may request additional information or medical records.
• Determining eligibility. If your claim is approved, you will receive workers’ compensation benefits, which may include medical treatment, temporary disability payments, permanent disability payments, and supplemental job displacement benefits.
• Appeals. If your claim is denied or you disagree with the benefits you are receiving, you can appeal the decision by filing a petition with the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board.

It is important to note that the workers’ compensation claims process can be complex, and it may be beneficial to seek the assistance of a workers’ compensation attorney to guide you through the process and ensure you receive the maximum benefits available to you.

Temporary vs. Permanent Disability Benefits CA

There are two types of disability benefits available under California’s workers’ compensation system, which are temporary disability benefits and permanent disability benefits. Here’s what you need to know about each of these benefits.

Temporary Disability Benefits.

Temporary disability benefits are designed to replace a portion of an injured worker’s lost wages while they recover from their injury. These benefits are typically paid at a rate of two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, up to a maximum weekly amount set by the state.

Temporary disability benefits are available for up to 104 weeks or until the worker reaches maximum medical improvement, whichever comes first. Maximum medical improvement means the injured worker has recovered as much as possible from their injury, but they may still have some limitations or residual symptoms.

Permanent Disability Benefits

Permanent disability benefits are designed to compensate an injured worker for any permanent loss of earning capacity resulting from their work-related injury or illness. These benefits are paid based on a permanent disability rating assigned by a qualified medical evaluator.

The permanent disability rating is a percentage that reflects the extent of the worker’s permanent impairment. This rating is then used to calculate the amount of permanent disability benefits the worker is entitled to receive.

Permanent disability benefits can be paid in a lump sum or weekly payments, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits

Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits, or SJDB, is a program in California that provides assistance to injured workers who cannot return to their job due to a work-related injury or illness. The program is designed to help workers obtain new job skills and training to return to the workforce.

Here’s what you need to know about Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits in California.

Eligibility

To be eligible for SJDB, you must have sustained a work-related injury or illness that resulted in permanent partial disability or total temporary disability. You must also have been injured on or after January 1, 2004, and your employer must have five or more employees.

Benefits

SJDB provides a voucher for up to $6,000 that can be used to pay for job training, education, and other expenses related to finding a new job. The voucher can be used for a variety of expenses, including tuition, books, tools, and licensing fees.

To qualify for the full voucher amount, you must participate in a state-approved training program. However, if you find a job on your own, you may be eligible for a reduced voucher amount.

Time Limit

You must use your SJDB voucher within two years from the date it was issued or within five years from the date of injury, whichever is later. If you fail to use the voucher within the time limit, you forfeit the benefit.

How to Apply

To apply for SJDB, you must file a workers’ compensation claim with your employer’s insurance carrier. If your claim is approved, you will receive a Notice of Offer of Modified or Alternative Work, which will include information about your eligibility for SJDB.

Once you receive the voucher, you can use it to pay for job training, education, and other expenses related to finding a new job.

Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits is an important program in California. If you are eligible for SJDB, be sure to take advantage of the program and use the voucher to obtain new job skills and training. If you have any questions about SJDB or workers’ compensation, you will want to consult with a knowledgeable attorney.

How Much Do Workers’ Comp Lawyers Charge in CA?

In California, workers’ compensation lawyers typically charge on a contingency fee basis. This means the lawyer’s fee is based on a percentage of the benefits or settlement that the lawyer recovers for the injured worker. The standard contingency fee for workers’ compensation lawyers in California is 9% to 15% of the total amount recovered.

Additionally, some workers’ compensation lawyers may charge an hourly rate for services such as legal research or the preparation of documents. However, this is less common in workers’ compensation cases.

It is important to discuss fees and costs with your workers’ compensation lawyer before hiring them. The lawyer should provide you with a written agreement that details their fees and costs. This agreement should also explain how the fees and costs will be paid and any conditions that may affect the lawyer’s compensation.

Why You Should Hire an Accident Attorney from Pratt Law Corporation

Some of the reasons to work with a knowledgeable attorney from Pratt Law Corporation include:

• Experience in personal injury law. Our accident attorneys have extensive knowledge and experience in personal injury law. They understand the rules and regulations that govern personal injury claims and can navigate the legal system on your behalf. They also are adept at dealing with insurance companies, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court.
• Investigation and evidence gathering. To build a strong case, our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation and gather evidence. This can include obtaining medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and other documentation. They can also work with accident reconstruction experts and other professionals to help prove your case.
• Negotiation with insurance companies. Insurance companies are primarily concerned with protecting their bottom line and will often try to settle claims for less than they are worth. An experienced accident attorney from Pratt Law Corporation knows how to negotiate with insurance companies to get you the compensation you deserve.
• Court representation. If negotiations with the insurance companies fail to reach a fair settlement, your attorney can represent you in court. They will present your case to a judge and jury and argue on your behalf. They will also handle all the legal paperwork and procedures involved in a court case.
• Advocacy for your rights. An attorney from Pratt Law Corporation is committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries. They will work tirelessly to help you recover lost wages, medical expenses, and damages for pain and suffering.

If you have been involved in an accident in California, hiring an experienced accident attorney from Pratt Law Corporation is a critical step to take. Our accident attorneys can help you navigate the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

Workers Compensation Lawyer FAQs

Q: Do I Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?

A: While it is not required to have a workers’ compensation lawyer, it is highly recommended. The workers’ compensation claims process can be complex and confusing, and having an experienced lawyer on your side can help ensure you receive the full benefits you are entitled to. A workers’ compensation lawyer can also help you navigate any disputes that may arise and ensure your rights are protected.

Q: Can I Choose My Own Doctor for Workers’ Compensation Treatment?

A: In California, you have the right to choose your own doctor for workers’ compensation treatment within the employer’s medical provider network (MPN). However, if you receive medical treatment outside of the MPN without authorization, you may be responsible for the cost of treatment. It is important to note that the employer has the right to designate the initial treating physician in the MPN. If you are dissatisfied with the care provided by the initial treating physician, you can request a change of physician within the MPN.

Q: What Should I Do If My Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?

A: If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, the first step is to request a hearing before the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). You have a limited amount of time to file an appeal, so it is important to act quickly. It is also recommended that you consult with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer, as they can help ensure your appeal is handled properly and that your rights are protected.

Q: What Types of Accidents Can an Accident Lawyer Help With?

A: An accident lawyer can help with a wide range of accidents, including but not limited to car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents, slip and fall accidents, construction accidents, and workplace accidents. They can also assist with injuries resulting from defective products, medical malpractice, and other forms of negligence.

Q: Can I Return to Work for My Employer Even If I Don’t Fully Recover?

A: Yes, it is possible to return to work for your employer even if you haven’t fully recovered from a work-related injury or illness. Modified work refers to work that is different from your regular job duties and is tailored to accommodate any work-related limitations or restrictions you may have. Light duty refers to work that is similar to your regular job duties but with some modifications to accommodate your work-related limitations or restrictions.

If you have been injured on the job or in an accident, contact an experienced Inglewood workers’ compensation attorney at Pratt Law Corporation today to schedule a free consultation. We will evaluate your case and provide you with the guidance and representation you need to protect your rights and obtain the maximum compensation available. Contact us now to take the first step toward a better future.