Getting hurt on the job can be a traumatizing experience. You may have many thoughts on your mind, but your immediate priority should be about seeking medical care. Unfortunately, a significant number of workplace injuries are reported in California each year. Thankfully, the workers’ compensation system is in place to help injured workers. This is a type of no-fault insurance, which will cover your medical bills and a part of your lost wages. Recovering the benefits can be a struggle, and that’s where an Ontario, CA workers comp lawyer can help. In this post, we are discussing more about workers’ compensation and how an attorney can help.

Overview of workers’ compensation

You don’t need to prove the fault of your employer to get workers’ compensation benefits. However, if your employer disputes your claim, you may have to wait to get the benefits until a judge determines the outcome. Also, remember that you cannot sue your employer because you were hurt on the work premises. In some cases, an injured worker may have a third-party claim. For instance, if you were driving your car while trying to deliver a work parcel and another driver rammed into your vehicle, you may have a separate personal injury claim.

The role of a workers’ compensation lawyer

If the workers’ compensation system is meant to help injured workers, why do you need an attorney? The answer lies in the work they do. Your lawyer can achieve the following for you –

1. Give you a FREE consultation to evaluate your claim
2. Gather evidence, including medical records, to support your workers’ compensation claim
3. Complete the insurance process and submit claims forms to the employer’s insurer
4. Take care of filing tasks and adhere to deadlines
5. Represent you at a hearing when necessary
6. Explore all other steps to recover the due workers’ compensation benefits

Do you have a valid claim?

To claim workers’ compensation benefits, you must be an employee on the payroll of your employer and not an independent contractor. Secondly, your injury must be a result of a workplace accident. Also, you are required to inform your employer about your injuries within 30 days of the accident.

Final word

When you have a workers’ compensation claim, you must act quickly and gather as much evidence as possible. Contact an attorney who has handled similar cases and can show their profile to explain their expertise. More importantly, ensure they are working on contingency.