While some jobsite injuries can’t be ignored and must be dealt with right away, the vast majority of injuries aren’t life-threatening. Many employees fail to address their workplace injuries soon enough, or take them seriously, and this can compromise their ability to receive workers compensation benefits. How many times have you strained your wrist or threw out your back, and continued working without telling anyone? It’s a common thing to do, but not always the best idea. Some work environments make it confusing or intimidating to file a claim, even if you have every right to do so. Some people are afraid of retaliation, or losing their job, by stepping forward and reporting an injury. Others simply don’t want to be bothered by it, or be seen as weak. All…

Like with most legal issues, workers compensation comes with a whole host of potentially confusing terms. Many people who have been hurt on the job just want to focus on their recovery, not have to read complicated legal paperwork. Thankfully, your workers compensation attorney in Sherman Oaks will be able to handle much of that for you, and will offer steady guidance through each step of your case. However, it never hurts to familiarize yourself with some of the most common terms that you’ll see in your case paperwork, and may notice in your exams and hearings. Here are seven key terms that will help you better understand your workers comp case: Average weekly wage (AWW) The AWW is often used to determine your rate of temporary or permanent disability.…

While certain jobs are more dangerous, like construction or healthcare, people in all industries are prone to injury. Millions of employees file workers compensation claims each year, and there are some patterns to these types of claims. There are things that both employers and employees can do, to make the workplace safer for everyone, as many of these injuries are preventable. However, accidents do happen, and things like workplace hazards, improper safety training, and other dangers can contribute to your jobsite risk. Here are ten of the most common workplace injuries: Overuse/overexertion Many claims involve injuries caused by overuse or overexertion, whether that’s related to pushing, lifting, pulling, or some other motion. Slips and trips When there are hazards like slippery floors, debris on walkways, or other dangers, employees are…

For an injured employee, every step of the worker’s compensation process presents its own challenge. In order to give yourself the best possible chance at winning your case, it’s important to follow all instructions, and to hire a qualified worker’s compensation attorney in Sherman Oaks. Because the outcome of your case weighs heavily on medical information, your healthcare choices carry a lot of weight. In the state of California, workers who are injured and who file a worker’s comp claim, are required to undergo what is known as an IME, or independent medical examination. This appointment is typically set with a healthcare provider that your employer or their insurance company approves of. Many people are nervous about their IMEs, and it’s okay if you are too. Here are a few…

When you get hurt on the job, there are several legal protections in place to ensure that you receive the medical and financial help that you need and deserve. While you should be protected for your workplace injury, it can be difficult to win a workers compensation lawsuit, especially if you attempt to represent yourself. Workers can run into claim denials and other snags, which can exacerbate an already stressful situation. When you have a severe injury that warrants ongoing medical care, disability benefits, and time off of work, you need an advocate to go to bat for you in your case. When you’re looking for a workers compensation attorney it is important to hire one that has: Workers comp specialization: Even though many lawyers claim to do workers comp…