Moreno Valley Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Common Workers’ Compensation Case Types

Workers’ compensation cases can emerge from a broad range of illnesses and injuries. Some of the most common types include the following list:

• Traumatic injuries. Traumatic injuries can happen suddenly and require immediate medical care. Injuries can look like fractures, lacerations, catastrophic injuries, or dislocations due to incidents such as falling from scaffolding or being hit by objects on a construction site. To pursue a claim, it is often necessary that there is documentation of the accident, that the worker reported it promptly, and that there are medical records that show the severity of the injury.
• Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). RSIs develop over time from repetitive movement and can result in injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, or chronic back pain. Establishing a successful claim often requires clear evidence that links the repetitive task to the injury, often requiring medical evaluations.
• Occupational illnesses. Occupational illnesses can look like silicosis for minors, mesothelioma from asbestos exposure, or asthma caused by working in highly polluted areas. These cases can be challenging to prove as symptoms can appear even years after the initial exposure. A claim generally needs proof of prolonged exposure to a harmful substance at work and a legitimized connection between the illness and work conditions.
• Mental health injuries. Mental health injuries can include posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or depression, which were all triggered by work-related events or conditions. These claims can be tricky to prove as they are non-physical injuries, and the proof needed for a successful claim may include a psychological evaluation, testimonies from colleagues, and records of the triggering incident.
• Overexertion injuries. Overexertion injuries are common in physically demanding roles and can manifest as heat exhaustion, herniated discs, or shoulder injuries. Claims require documentation of job duties and medical evaluations.
• Slip and fall injuries. Slip and fall injuries often involve a workplace safety violation, and successful claims often require incident reports, witness statements, and/or photos of the hazardous conditions to serve as proof. These injuries can lead to head trauma, broken bones, and sprained ankles.
• Exposure to toxic substances. These workers’ compensation claims often require evidence of the exposure and a medical diagnosis that links the condition to the workplace hazard. Examples can include lead poisoning, chemical burns, and long-term health conditions from pesticide exposure.

Each type of workers’ compensation case requires specific evidence and documentation to see a successful result. Legal representation can be critical in navigating the complex legal process.

How a Lawyer Can Help

A workers’ compensation lawyer plays a massive role in supporting injured workers as they navigate the complexities and challenges of workers’ compensation claims. Lawyers can help their clients understand if they have the merit to pursue a claim and give insight into the likelihood of a successful result.

A lawyer can help on the administrative end by ensuring that claims are filed correctly and on time, ensuring that errors are avoided to prevent delays or denials. They can also support the strategy and representation front as they can ensure that the needed evidence and proof is available to present a detailed legal strategy that proves the case.

Workers’ compensation lawyers work to ensure that their clients are equipped and ready to navigate the legal hurdles of their cases and secure the compensation and benefits they deserve.

FAQs

Q: How Much Do Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Charge in California?

A: In California, how much workers’ compensation lawyers charge is dependent on several factors that can vary from case to case, making the overall cost individual to each case. The factors that can influence cost include the lawyer’s experience level, the nature of the case, the complexity of the case, the time needed to complete the case, and the lawyer’s fee structure. Fee structures can impact overall costs depending on whether it is a flat fee, retainer fee, or hourly fee.