Trusted Riverside Workers’ Comp Attorneys
Workplace injuries can turn your life upside down, leaving you with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Whether you work on a construction site, in a warehouse, or at a desk job, you deserve to receive full compensation after a workplace injury. A skilled workers’ comp attorney can guide you through the complex claims process, ensuring that you secure the benefits and compensation you need to recover and move forward.
At Ochoa & Calderón, we dedicate ourselves to fighting for workers throughout Riverside and Southern California. Our experienced workers’ comp attorneys ensure that injured employees receive the full range of benefits and explore additional legal avenues for maximum recovery.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that provides benefits to employees injured on the job. California law requires all employers to carry workers’ comp insurance to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to workplace injuries or illnesses. This system protects workers, regardless of who caused the injury, with only a few exceptions such as intoxication or intentional harm.
Workers’ comp benefits include:
- Medical Care: Coverage for treatments, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Temporary Disability Benefits: Partial wage replacement for workers unable to perform their job during recovery.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: Compensation for long-term impairments affecting work capacity.
- Job Displacement Benefits: Financial assistance for retraining or education if you cannot return to your previous position.
- Death Benefits: Support for dependents of workers who lose their lives due to workplace injuries.
When Should You Hire a Workers’ Comp Attorney?
While some workers’ comp claims proceed smoothly, others face challenges that require legal intervention. You should hire a workers’ comp attorney if:
- Your claim is denied or delayed.
- You encounter disputes over the extent of your injuries or necessary treatments.
- Your employer retaliates against you for filing a claim.
- You need help navigating complex forms and deadlines.
An experienced Riverside workers’ comp attorney can handle these challenges, allowing you to focus on your recovery while ensuring your rights are protected.
Third-Party Liability Claims
In some cases, your workplace injury may involve a third party, such as a contractor, vendor, or manufacturer of defective equipment. When this happens, you can pursue a third-party liability claim in addition to your workers’ comp benefits. These claims allow you to seek additional compensation, including damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
Examples of third-party liability include:
- A defective piece of machinery causing injury.
- A negligent driver causing an accident while you are on the job.
- A subcontractor creating unsafe working conditions.
Our skilled attorneys at Ochoa & Calderón will investigate your case thoroughly to identify all potential sources of compensation.
How We Help You Win Your Workers’ Comp Case
At Ochoa & Calderón, we understand the emotional and financial stress that workplace injuries impose. Our team provides comprehensive legal support by:
- Filing claims promptly and accurately to avoid unnecessary delays.
- Appealing denied claims and fighting for your right to benefits.
- Representing you in independent medical reviews and hearings.
- Pursuing third-party claims to maximize your compensation.
We commit ourselves to achieving the best outcome for every client, using our extensive experience to navigate the complexities of California workers’ compensation laws.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Compensation
What should I do immediately after a workplace injury?
Seek medical attention right away and report the incident to your employer. Document the accident scene and keep records of all treatments. Contact a workers’ comp attorney to guide you through the claims process.
How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim?
California law requires you to report your injury within 30 days and file a workers’ compensation claim within one year of the injury. Prompt action is critical to preserving your rights.
Can I file a workers’ comp claim for repetitive stress injuries?
Yes, workers’ compensation covers repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or back pain caused by repetitive motions or prolonged activities at work.
Can I receive workers’ comp benefits while pursuing a third-party claim?
Yes, you can receive workers’ comp benefits and file a third-party claim simultaneously. However, your workers’ comp insurer may seek reimbursement for certain benefits if you win the third-party lawsuit.
How do workers’ comp attorneys get paid?
Workers’ comp attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Fees are often capped by law to ensure fairness.
Contact a Trusted Riverside Workers’ Comp Attorney Today
If you’ve suffered a workplace injury, Ochoa & Calderón is here to help. Our experienced workers’ comp attorneys will fight for your rights and secure the benefits and compensation you deserve. Call 951-901-4444 in Riverside or 844-401-0750 toll-free across Southern California. You can also contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
