Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Palmdale, CA

FAQs

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

  Dial 661-272-2400 to request non-emergency assistance from the police in Palmdale.

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

  Contact LASD's Records and Identification Bureau at (562) 345-4441 to request incident reports in Palmdale. Reports can be picked up at the Public Safety Center at 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 120 in Norwalk. These can also be requested through mail addressed to: Records and Identification Bureau Attention: Records Inquiry Non-Law Enforcement Section 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 400 West Norwalk, California 90650

• What are the benefits of a worker's compensation claim for an employee in Palmdale?

  If a Palmdale employee gets injured in the workplace, they are entitled to receive benefits for medical treatment, disability, and lost wages. Medical treatment benefits can include costs for physical therapy, doctor consultation, medical devices, prescription medicine, and surgery. An employee can also be compensated for lost wages through different disability categories such as temporary, permanent partial, or total disability.

• Can an employer fire you when you file a worker's compensation claim in Palmdale?

  It is illegal for an employer to fire an employee solely on the basis of filing a worker's compensation claim. If you believe your employer is retaliating against you for filing the claim, consult with a lawyer who can launch an investigation on your Palmdale case. The lawyer can check your salary history, workplace injury, and performance reviews to determine if the termination is justified.

• How can you learn more about worker's compensation in Palmdale?

  You may call 1-800-736-7401 during regular office hours to speak to a representative from the Division of Workers' Compensation Information Services Center. You may visit the DWC District Office in Van Nuys at 6150 Van Nuys Blvd., Suite 105, or call it at (818) 901-5367 and its Info & Assistance Unit at (818) 901-5367.

• What are some of the reasons a workers' compensation claim may be denied in Palmdale?

  Some of the reasons for workers' compensation claim denial are not being filed on time, not seeking medical treatment, and not reporting the injury on time. A claim can also be denied if the investigation found insufficient evidence the injury occurred in the workplace or was work-related. If you are looking to file an appeal for a denied claim in Palmdale, speak to a workers' compensation lawyer first before you appear before a judge.

• Is employee information kept confidential when filing workers' compensation forms?

  All employee information indicated on the workers' compensation forms is solely used for its intended purpose. As an example, the Division of Workers' Compensation will use the social security number as the employee's identification when searching for documents related to their case. The DWC will not disclose the employee's social security number or residential address unless otherwise required by the law to do so.

• 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.