When California workers are injured on the job, it is natural to be worried about the future. Not only will medical treatment be needed, but there is inevitable concern over lost wages and how to make ends meet. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits are available. It is important to understand the process to get an approval.
There are certain steps that must be taken to apply for workers’ compensation benefits. Immediately after the injury, it is imperative to seek medical attention. In some cases, the employee might need to see a specific medical professional. Unless it is an emergency, it is wise to ask a supervisor. In some cases, the worker can get a second opinion. The case will often hinge on the medical prognosis.
The employer must be informed that there has been an injury. This should be done as soon as possible. When filling out forms to receive workers’ compensation, it is critical to include the injury and the affected body part, when and where the accident happened, who was involved, how it happened and whether medical care has been sought. The employer is required to have workers’ compensation insurance. In addition, it is illegal for an employer to penalize a worker who seeks workers’ compensation benefits.
The process will then move forward to the state workers’ compensation board where it will be assessed, and a determination will be made whether to approve or deny the claim. All necessary paperwork should be filed on time, and the worker should adhere to the treatment program. The worker may want to retain records regarding treatment and issues that came about because of the work-related injury. Even if workers follow the requirements, challenges can arise with getting approved for workers’ compensation, so when filing a claim, having legal advice might be helpful.
