Maison Law helps workers in Hanford when they have to file for workers’ compensation. You never want to be in a situation where you need to file a workers’ comp claim, but unfortunately, there’s a number of different reasons you’d need benefits. Our team understands what you’re going through and how to help you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Workers’ Comp Claim?
You don’t need a lawyer to file a workers’ compensation claim in Hanford. All it takes to start the process is filling out the DWC-1 claim form and turning it in. But the reality is that needing workers’ comp means you’re dealing with an injury or sickness because of your job. This, obviously, makes the claims process can be overwhelming. That’s where having our lawyers can make a real difference.
While you can handle it on your own, a workers’ comp lawyer can help make sure you get the maximum benefits you deserve and make the process much smoother by:
- Guiding you – We’ll break down the benefits you’re able to get and the steps you need to take to get them.
- Gathering the right evidence and information – We’ll collect the medical records, witness statements, and other documentation needed to support your claim.
- Preparing you – We’ll help you get ready for required exams and represent you in hearings if necessary.
- Appealing your benefits – If your claim is denied or undervalued, we’ll fight to get you the benefits you deserve.
If you’re facing a workers’ comp claim in Hanford, having the right support can make a tough situation much easier. Our team will guide you every step of the way, from filing your claim to securing your benefits.
How Can You Make Sure Your Claim is Protected?
Just because you don’t need to prove anything to file a workers’ comp claim doesn’t mean you just automatically get full benefits. At its core, workers’ comp is an insurance claim and that means an insurance company is going to look at your situation and decide how much to give you. So, you need to make sure you take the right steps after you become sick or get hurt to protect your claim:
- Get medical treatment – Your health comes first. Start with first aid if needed, then get medical care–hospital for serious injuries or illnesses or urgent care for minor ones. Medical records from your treatment are crucial evidence that show the severity of your injury and make it harder for the insurance company to downplay your claim.
- Report the injury or illness – In California, you have 30 days to report a workplace injury, but it’s best to do it immediately. Tell your supervisor, request first aid if needed, and let HR know. They should give you the workers’ comp form (DWC-1) carefully and submit it. Quick reporting shows you’re serious and helps avoid delays in benefits like medical care and lost wages.
- Cooperate with the company’s investigation – After filing, the insurance company will review your case. Be honest and provide clear evidence, such as medical records and witness statements. A smooth investigation increases the chances of a faster approval.
- Follow doctor’s orders – You’ll probably need to see a doctor chosen by the insurance company (known as a Qualified Medical Evaluator or QME), but you can also visit your own doctor. Follow all their medical advice, take prescribed treatments, and go to follow-ups. Keeping detailed records of your recovery can support any future requests for additional benefits.
- Be careful – When talking about your situation with your employer or the insurance company, stick to the facts. Keep from oversharing or posting about it on social media. Inconsistent or exaggerated statements can damage your credibility and lead to a denied or reduced claim.
Getting hurt or sick at work is always challenging, but taking these steps can help protect your claim–making sure you get the most benefits. If you need help, our team is here to support you and further protect your rights.
Why Would You Need to File a Workers’ Comp Claim in Hanford?
Hanford has a lot of different jobs and industries. But most might not realize that pretty much everyone has access to workers’ comp insurance through your employer. Going a step further, there’s no injury or illness that disqualifies you from filing a claim. If you get hurt or sick doing your normal, day-to-day job activities, you can get workers’ comp benefits. Still, there’s more common reasons why you would need to file a claim:
- Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs) – These are among the most common reasons to file, caused by repetitive tasks like typing, lifting, or assembly line work.
- Slips and falls – These can happen due to things like wet floors, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces.
- Exposure to dangerous materials – These are health issues that come from working with chemicals or toxic substances.
- Car accidents – You can also file a claim if you’re hurt in accidents while driving to or from job sites or making deliveries for work.
- Machinery accidents – Injuries from malfunctioning or improperly used equipment frequently result in workers’ comp claims.
- Burns or fire injuries – These are caused by working near open flames or involve lung damage from inhaling smoke.
No matter where you work in Hanford, you have the right to file for workers’ comp if you’re injured or become ill due to your job.
What Benefits Can You Get in a Workers’ Comp Claim?
Obviously, you never want to get hurt or sick at work. Unfortunately though, even the most calm or safe work environments can cause injuries or illnesses. At that point, you’re going to probably need to file a workers’ comp claim to recover certain benefits that help you get better.
But you may be wondering what benefits you can get exactly. The answer there depends on your situation, but generally involves things like:
- Medical expenses – This covers your doctor visits, treatments, medications, and other necessary medical care.
- Temporary Disability (TD) – This usually provides you about two-thirds of your average weekly wage if you can’t work temporarily, usually for up to 104 weeks (or longer for specific conditions).
- Permanent Disability (PD) – These benefits are based on your disability rating if you have a long-term or permanent injury that limits your ability to work.
- Job retraining – This provides financial assistance for learning new skills or training for a different job if you can’t return to your previous position.
- Death benefits – In the event that your illness or injury turns fatal, these benefits give financial support to your dependents and cover funeral and burial expenses.
Remember, you have to file your claim within one year of the injury or the date you discovered your illness in order to get benefits. Most of the time, the sooner you can file your claim, the sooner you can start getting benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a claim?
You have one year from the date of your injury or illness to file a workers’ comp claim.
Can I file a claim if the accident was my fault?
Yes. Workers’ comp is a no-fault system, meaning you can still receive benefits as long as the injury happened while you were working. However, the insurance company may try to deny or reduce your claim. Our team can help you navigate this situation.
How long does it take to receive benefits?
If your claim is approved, you should start receiving temporary disability benefits within 14 days of filing. The timeline may vary based on your case.
Contact Maison Law for Help with Your Workers’ Comp Claim
If you were injured or got sick because of work in Hanford, Maison Law can help. Our workers’ compensation lawyers will guide you through the process, deal with the insurance company, and protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation and get the support you need to get benefits and focus on healing.
