Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Concord

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Concord, California?

  925-671-3333 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Concord.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Concord, California?

  If you need a copy of a police report in Concord, you can email a request to policerecords@cityofconcord.org. For more information, call the Records Bureau at 925-671-3240. The police station is at 1350 Galindo Street Concord, CA 94520.

• Who does not qualify for workers’ compensation in Concord?

  Workers’ compensation is not available for certain individuals such as self-employed persons, volunteer workers, and amateur athletes participating in amateur events. It also does not provide coverage to workers whose employers are relatives, individuals who work for aid instead of wages, deputy sheriffs and deputy clerks, and amateur sports officials. Employees in Concord should always check with their employers to make sure they are eligible for workers' compensation before filing a claim.

• What are the common types of workplace injuries in Concord?

  Claims in Concord can be filed for a range of workplace injuries, encompassing various body parts such as the shoulder, rotator cuff, labral tears, bone, muscle, and joints. Along with these, injuries involving the head and brain, back, neck, and spinal cord, and claims for amputations and wrongful death are also common. The cause of these injuries can be attributed to multiple factors, including accidents with machinery or equipment, falls, heavy lifting, and repetitive motions.

• What challenges can arise when seeking workers' compensation benefits in Concord?

  When seeking workers' compensation benefits in Concord, there are various challenges that can arise. One such challenge is opposition from the employer's insurance provider, which seeks to limit the amount of compensation to be awarded. Additionally, there are time requirements for filing claims and difficulties in proving your entitlement to benefits. The process can be overwhelming, but hiring a specialist attorney in workers' compensation can increase your chances of overcoming these obstacles and receiving fair compensation.

• What are some common reasons that workers' compensation claims in Concord are denied?

  Several reasons can lead to the denial of workers' compensation claims in Concord. Denials may be attributed to arguments claiming that the injury did not occur during the course of employment, was solely due to a pre-existing condition, and was caused by horsing around. Claims may also be denied due to reasons such as the emotional or mental stress not being work-related or the injury being due to intoxication. Other reasons may include failing to seek medical treatment promptly and telling different stories about the injury.

• Can you sue your employer in Concord if you receive workers' compensation benefits?

  Workers' compensation in Concord operates under a no-fault system, which means that employees who are injured or become ill due to their work are entitled to monetary benefits without having to prove their employer's negligence or fault. However, this also means that the injured employee is generally not allowed to sue their employer for damages related to the injury or illness, except under very limited circumstances.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.