No one ever wants to suffer an injury, especially in the workplace. Although some industries may pose a greater risk of workplace injury, anyone can be injured on the job, and it is crucial to understand what to do after suffering from an injury in the workplace. In addition to having your life up-ended due to injury, pain, and suffering, filing a California workers’ compensation claim can be a frustrating process.
If you were injured on the job in California, the last thing that you probably want to deal with is filing a worker’s comp claim. However, a workers’ compensation claim is, unfortunately, the very first thing your employer and their insurance provider is thinking about after your accident. Therefore, you, too, should make it a priority.
If you have suffered an on-the-job injury in Orange County, you are likely entitled to compensation through workers’ comp. Nearly every California employer is mandated by law to carry worker’s comp insurance coverage.
Anyone who suffers a workplace injury in California should follow these six steps to ensure that their workers’ comp claim is successful.
Step 1: Seek immediate medical attention.
Your personal health and well-being should be your first priority after a workplace injury. No matter how minor your injury may seem, having a complete medical evaluation following an injury in a workplace accident will be crucial to file a workers’ compensation claim successfully.
Step 2: Tell your story honestly.
Because there are several stages of a workers’ comp case, you will be expected to tell the story of your injury multiple times. Being truthful and honest about where and how you got injured is crucial because inconsistencies in your account can adversely affect your claim.
Step 3: Take photographs and document important information.
The more evidence you have, the more successful your workers’ compensation case will be. In this digital age, we all have access to cameras through our cellular devices. Take as many photographs as you can at the accident site or, if you are unable, have someone take photos for you. Also, collect the names and contact information of anyone who might have witnessed the accident and write down any information you can about the circumstances surrounding the incident as soon as you are able.
Step 4: Report the injury to your employer.
Following a workplace injury in California, you should immediately report the incident to your employer according to whatever internal procedures are in place. Although California law gives injured employees a 30-day window to report their workplace injury, you should inform them about the incident as soon as you can. Always notify the employer in writing and keep a copy for your records.
Step 5: Keep a journal or a diary.
Start, as mentioned above, with a comprehensive description of workplace injury. Be sure to include details such as how you were injured, who witnessed the incident, and who you notified. Then, moving forward, track any interactions you have with your employer, their insurance company, or your claims manager. Also, follow any changes, good or bad, in your condition. Having a written record is always better than relying on your memory. You should also track any missed work or expenses you have accrued.
Step 6: Contact a California workers’ compensation attorney.
Although you can certainly fill out your California workers’ comp forms on your own, the process can be quite complicated. A California workers’ compensation attorney can help.
If you or someone you love has been injured on the job, the experienced workers’ compensation attorneys from Aoudi Law can help. Our team has the experience necessary to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
The California workers’ compensation specialists from the team at Aoudi Law have extensive experience representing clients just like you. So whether you are just starting the workers’ compensation claims process or if your employer’s insurance company has denied your claim, the professional staff at Aoudi Law stands ready to help.
Call or text 714-769-8706 today for a free consultation.
