The Workers Compensation System in California

The workers’ compensation program in California is regulated by the state and not the Federal system. It provides its employees the benefits including workers’ compensation insurance. Below is a discussion on the workers’ compensation claims and eligibility in California.

Workers’ Comp Basics In California

In California, employers are responsible for providing the benefits of workers’ compensation to its employees by offering workers’ compensation insurance through one of the licensed insurers of the state or through State Compensation Insurance Fund (SCIF). In case a worker suffers an accident in relation to work, or falls ill due to the work conditions, the insurance company will offer treatment to the employees. They are also eligible to claim lost wages and compensation regarding a job retraining or permanent disability. In case a worker is injured because of the work conditions, it is advised to consult an injury attorney in Los Angeles to ensure proper legal proceedings.

Common Work-Related Injuries

The most common incidents of workers’ comp injuries in the state of California are falls, accidents from trucks or cars, and instances of falling objects. All the major incidents regarding illnesses and injuries at work are eligible to be considered under compensation benefits. This includes anything caused by cumulative injuries which refers to the injuries caused by repetitive action, illnesses caused by the work environment, and one-time injuries

Filing A California Workers Compensation Claim

Make sure you notify the employer as quickly as possible after you get injured or learn that you have a work-related illness. Apart from cases of medical emergencies, make sure you inform the employer regarding your issues as they may have a physician under their medical provider network. Remember that you may lose your eligibility to collect the benefits if you fail to report within 30 days.

After receiving the treatment, you have to fill the DWC (Division of Workers’ Compensation) Form 1 and present it to your employer. This will be handed over to the workers’ compensation insurance company. Further, you have to file an Application for Adjudication of Claim before one year of the incident in order to file the worker’s compensation claim officially.

California workers’ compensation insurance offers to pay for the medical expenses caused by the injury. Note that you may have to consult the physician under the company at least initially. Make sure you consult a personal injury lawyer in the event of illness or accident related to the workplace.