At Sycamore Accident Lawyers, we have extensive knowledge of workers’ compensation law and have the resources necessary to conduct thorough personal investigations and collect evidence and expert witnesses’ testimonies. Our Riverside workers’ comp lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis which means we do not charge any legal fees until we win your workers’ compensation case.
We will provide aggressive legal advocacy and protect your best interests. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys will deal with the insurance company on your behalf and work to resolve your case in a timely manner.
How Can a Workers’ Comp Attorney Help?
A workers’ compensation lawyer fights for the rights of injured workers. If you sustained injuries on the job, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under California law. Employers are legally required to provide their employees with workers’ compensation benefits. When you file an injury claim it’s vital that it is done correctly because there could be delays, complications, or an employer may deny a claim.
A Riverside workers’ compensation lawyer will communicate directly with the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance provider to negotiate fair compensation. The insurance company will want to avoid a high settlement and may try to find reasons to deny your claim. Your workers’ compensation attorney will fight to obtain the benefits you are entitled to, and protect your rights.
Most Common Workplace Accident Injuries
Common work injuries suffered in work accidents include:
Muscle Strains – Muscle strains can occur when workers overexert themselves, do a lot of heavy lifting, or make repetitive movements over an extended period of time.
Lacerations – Cuts and lacerations can be caused by improper training and the use of machinery and equipment. If safety procedures are not implemented or followed it increases the risk of sustaining injuries. Lacerations can also result from slips and falls, low overhangs, and exposed sharp objects or surfaces.
Traumatic Brain Injuries – When workers fall, are struck by an object, or are in a motor vehicle accident traumatic brain injuries can occur. According to the CDC, falls account for about 48% of traumatic brain injuries.
Burns – Burns can occur on the job when workers are exposed to fire, electric currents, radiation, steam, hot objects, dangerous chemicals, and hot liquids.
Inhaling Toxic Chemicals – Workers who are exposed to harmful chemicals can sustain serious work-related injuries when they don’t have the proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
Vision Loss – When workers are exposed to harmful substances they may be at risk of eye reactions and injuries. It’s important to use proper PPE like safety goggles when handling hazardous chemicals.
Hearing Loss – Continually being exposed to loud noises on the job can result in occupational hearing loss.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by repeated and forceful movements of the hands and wrists. The use of hand-held powered vibratory tools can also lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Most Common Types of Workplace Accidents
Some common types of workplace accidents include:
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are a top cause of workplace accidents. Every year, there are more than 2 million fall injuries in the U.S. These kinds of accidents usually occur in adverse weather conditions or working conditions.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Auto accidents are the leading cause of injuries and fatalities across the United States. Over 5 million auto accidents occur annually in the U.S.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Injuries can develop when a worker performs repetitive motions over an extended period. These kinds of workplace injuries are common in the construction, agriculture, and manufacturing industries. Repetitive stress on joints and ligaments can result in long-term complications including permanent structural damage.
Overexertion
When workers are required to lift, carry, move, and throw heavy objects for extended periods they can develop serious injuries, especially in hot or humid conditions.
Hit by Objects or Machinery
When objects or machinery falls on workers, it can severely injure a worker.
Falling From Heights
When workers work from heights such as roofs, utility poles, buildings, and skyscrapers there is a potential risk of sustaining an injury due to falling. These accidents may occur due to adverse weather, slippery surfaces, poor lighting, poor visibility, and the lack of necessary safety equipment like railings or harnesses.
Workers’ compensation can cover losses including:
- Medical expenses
- Ongoing medical care
- Temporary disability
- Permanent disability
- Cost of retraining
- Wrongful death benefits
What is a Third-Party Claim in a Workers’ Comp Case?
A third-party claim is a separate injury claim that is outside of the workers’ compensation system. You can pursue this kind of claim if you sustained injuries on the job that were caused by a third-party, and not your employer.
