Los Angeles Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Assisting Southern California Workers Injured on the Job
In Los Angeles, just about every employee is protected by workers’ compensation insurance. Even if you are the sole employee at your workplace, your employer must provide workers’ comp coverage. If you sustain an injury at work, regardless of whether it’s due to a co-worker’s negligence, faulty machinery, or even your own error, you are entitled to workers’ comp benefits. These benefits include medical treatment and wage replacement while you are unable to work. If you need Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorneys, Ochoa & Calderon will help you get the benefits you deserve.
Unfortunately, some employers and their insurance providers complicate the process of obtaining workers’ comp benefits to avoid paying. It can be frustrating and overwhelming, especially when you need these benefits to recover. At Ochoa & Calderon, our experienced Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorneys have over 15 years of experience assisting injured workers in obtaining the care and compensation they deserve.
If you have been injured at work in Los Angeles or anywhere in Southern California and are having trouble getting your workers’ comp claim approved, contact Ochoa & Calderon for a free consultation with one of our expert California workers’ compensation lawyers.
Comprehensive Workers’ Compensation Benefits in California
California workers’ compensation benefits encompass five main categories: medical care, wage replacement, disability, job displacement, and death benefits.
Medical Care
Workers’ comp covers all reasonably necessary medical treatment related to a work-related illness or injury. Benefits can include:
- Doctor visits
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic or occupational therapy
- Prescriptions and medical equipment
- Mileage reimbursement for travel to and from the doctor or pharmacy
Wage Replacement
If you are temporarily disabled and cannot work, workers’ comp pays two-thirds of your regular wages for the duration of your disability, for up to two years.
Disability
If your disability is permanent, you will receive a rating based on the nature of the disability and body part affected. You will then receive permanent disability benefits according to a schedule of benefits outlined in the law.
Job Displacement
If you cannot return to your previous job due to a disability, you may be eligible for a $6,000 voucher. This voucher can pay for training, licensing, or certification to help you secure a new job in a different field.
Death Benefits
The spouse, children, or other dependents of an employee who dies from a work-related illness or injury can receive up to $10,000 for reasonable burial expenses. They can also receive benefits at the total temporary disability rate. These benefits can total $250,000 or more, depending on the number of dependents left behind.
How Los Angeles Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Ochoa & Calderon Can Help You Secure Benefits
Workers’ compensation covers any injury that occurs on the job, including injuries from single traumatic events like falls or burns, as well as injuries that develop over time due to repetitive stress. Occupational illnesses and diseases are also covered. These include illnesses caused by toxic exposure to chemicals or conditions like heart disease and hypertension for those in high-stress jobs such as police officers, firefighters, and first responders. If a pre-existing condition worsens on the job, workers’ comp should cover treatment for the aggravation.
Employers and insurers often try to avoid paying benefits or offer less than what is due. They may:
- Claim your injury is not work-related
- Blame a pre-existing condition
- Dispute the severity of your injury
- Allege the accident occurred while you were intoxicated
- Claim the injury was intentional
- Argue the accident was due to a violation of workplace safety rules
- Assert that you failed to report the accident on time or follow other procedures
- Repeatedly require independent medical exams to contest your disability
You have rights as an employee when it comes to workers’ compensation. An experienced Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney ensures these rights are upheld. At Ochoa & Calderon, we handle interactions with the insurance carrier, represent you in administrative hearings and appeals with the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), and even take your case to court if necessary. Our Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorneys are dedicated to fighting for your rights.
Steps to Take After an Injury at Work
- Report the Injury Immediately: Notify your employer about the injury as soon as it happens. Delaying the report can complicate your claim.
- Seek Medical Attention: See a doctor as soon as possible and follow all prescribed treatments. Early medical documentation is crucial for your claim.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your injury, treatment, and any communications with your employer or insurance company.
- Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney: Call Ochoa & Calderon at 951-901-4444 for a free consultation to ensure you receive all entitled benefits.
- Understand Your Rights: Educate yourself about your rights under California workers’ compensation law. This knowledge helps you navigate the claims process more effectively.
How Does The Workers’ Compensation Process Start?
In the video below, our experienced attorney William Calderon, Co-Founder and Partner at Ochoa & Calderon, discusses the workers’ compensation process. With nearly 20 years of experience advocating for injured workers, William provides invaluable insights into how to navigate your claim successfully. Learn more about William Calderon and his dedication to protecting the rights of injured workers.
Can I Receive More Than Workers’ Compensation?
Workers who suffer injuries on the job are usually entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, additional compensation might be available in some cases. Often, a third party, aside from your employer, may share responsibility for the injury. In such cases, you can pursue a third-party claim to seek compensation beyond what workers’ compensation provides. This additional compensation can cover aspects like pain and suffering, which workers’ comp does not typically address. If you believe a third party may be responsible for your injury, consult a Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney who has experience handling these complex cases to ensure you receive full compensation.
Why Consult Los Angeles Workers’ Compensation Attorneys?
After an injury at work, you might feel hesitant or worried about reporting it to your employer due to fear of retaliation. However, you should report the injury without delay. The law protects you from being fired for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Injuries can occur in any workplace, and workers’ compensation is there to support you during recovery. Hiring Ochoa & Calderon helps alleviate the stress of managing your claim alone. Our attorneys will handle all the legal aspects, allowing you to focus solely on healing. We provide expert guidance and ensure you receive all the benefits you deserve. Let Ochoa & Calderon, your trusted Los Angeles workers’ compensation lawyers, handle your claim from the outset and work towards maximizing your settlement.
Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Los Angeles
Ochoa & Calderon has been representing injured workers for more than 15 years. Our approach protects your rights and ensures you receive the maximum possible compensation. If you or someone you know has suffered a workplace injury, reach out to the workers’ compensation attorneys at Ochoa & Calderon. Our experienced team will support you through this challenging
time. Don’t face the complexities of a workers’ compensation claim alone.
Moreover, Ochoa & Calderon can help with other legal matters and concerns. Contact us immediately to avoid missing crucial deadlines that could jeopardize your claim. Prompt action is essential for a thorough investigation and to safeguard your right to compensation. Engage our services as soon as possible to benefit from our comprehensive legal support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after being injured at work?
Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Seek medical attention and follow all prescribed treatments. Contact a Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney to ensure you receive all entitled benefits.
Can I be fired for filing a workers’ compensation claim?
No, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you face any retaliation, contact a Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney immediately.
What if my claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. An experienced Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney will help you navigate the appeals process and advocate on your behalf.
How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim?
In California, you generally have one year from the date of your injury to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, you should report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
Can I choose my own doctor for treatment?
Initially, you may need to see a doctor chosen by your employer. After 30 days, you can switch to your own doctor, provided certain conditions are met. Consult with a Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney for guidance on this process.
What types of injuries are covered by workers’ compensation?
Workers’ compensation covers injuries caused by one-time accidents, repetitive stress injuries, occupational illnesses, and exacerbation of pre-existing conditions due to workplace activities.
Dedicated Los Angeles Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Ready to Assist You
Suffering a workplace injury in California can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. The team at Ochoa & Calderon is here to guide you through the complexities of the workers’ compensation process. For tailored legal advice and support, reach out to our skilled Los Angeles Workers’ Comp attorneys at Ochoa & Calderon. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case and explore your options. Contact us online or call 951-901-4444 for assistance in Los Angeles, or 844-401-0750 toll-free across Southern California.
