Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Lakewood

FAQs

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

  562-623-3500 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Lakewood.

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

  To request a copy of a police report, you must first call 562-623-3500 with the case's file or report number to confirm if it is available for request. It may not be available in cases where an investigation is ongoing or if confidentiality restrictions apply. Once available, visit the Lakewood Station lobby and pay the fee. Additionally, there may be restrictions on who can receive a copy of a Sheriff's report.

• What is the process for filing a workers’ compensation claim in Lakewood?

  If you've been injured at work in Lakewood, you must report your injury to your employer immediately. Your employer should provide you with the necessary claim forms and materials to submit your workers' compensation claim. Employers are prohibited from interfering with an employee's claim, and the claimant will likely need to have a medical exam with a workers' compensation-approved doctor, who will assign a disability rating. Once you submit all necessary documentation, your insurance carrier will process your claim in good faith and offer a fair settlement.

• Are there other options for compensation besides a workers’ compensation claim in Lakewood?

  Yes. Although a workers' compensation claim is usually the simplest way to seek compensation for a workplace injury in Lakewood, it is not always the only option. If a third party played a role in the injury or illness, it may be possible to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. While this option requires more proof and effort to establish fault and liability, it may provide additional compensation beyond what workers' compensation can offer.

• What are the most common workplace injuries reported in Lakewood?

  The most common workplace injuries reported in Lakewood include soft tissue injuries, repetitive motion injuries, traumatic brain injuries, back and spine injuries, catastrophic traumatic injuries, and acquired illnesses. These are covered by the Workers' Compensation Act, and employees who have been injured while performing their job duties may submit a claim. An employee should disclose any work-related injury or illness to receive the appropriate medical care and compensation.

• What is the typical timeframe for receiving workers' compensation benefits in Lakewood?

  The timeframe for receiving workers' compensation benefits in Lakewood varies widely, depending on several factors. While some claims may be processed and paid within a few days to weeks, others may encounter difficulties such as claim denials or delays. A workers' compensation attorney in Lakewood can provide an estimate of the time it may take for a case to resolve. Benefits might be delayed due to case complexity, injury severity, and the amount of legal and medical evidence needed to support the claim.

• What benefits are available through workers’ compensation for injured workers in Lakewood?

  For workers in Lakewood who are injured on the job and meet the requirements for workers' compensation, there are two primary benefits available. The first is coverage of medical expenses related to workplace injury, including emergency room care, hospital treatment, and ongoing medical issues. The second benefit is temporary disability compensation, paid weekly until the employee can return to work. Additional disability benefits may also be available to some individuals.

• 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.