Dedicated Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Santa Ana, California
At Hanning & Sacchetto, our Santa Ana workers’ compensation attorneys know California has a no-fault workers’ compensation system. This means that employees do not need to prove that their employer was at fault for an injury, just that it was work-related.
Santa Ana has a large and diverse business base, with over 30,000 businesses that employ over 150,000 people. When injured, these companies’ workers are entitled to medical benefits and wage replacement funds from their workers’ compensation claims. In exchange, employees give up their right to sue for negligence.
Because this is true, many injured workers do not consider partnering with an Orange County workers’ compensation attorney until their claims are disputed or denied by their employers’ insurance providers.
No matter where you are in your workers’ compensation claim — whether you are just getting started, responding to a dispute, or appealing a denial — we can help. Contact our skilled workers’ compensation attorneys in Santa Ana today to discuss your injuries and claim during a free consultation.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Injured Employees Entitled to in California?
In California, injured employees are entitled to various workers’ compensation benefits to help them recover from work-related injuries or illnesses. These benefits aim to provide medical care, compensation for lost wages, and support for rehabilitation.
The key workers’ compensation benefits available in California include:
- Medical Treatment
Injured employees are entitled to medical treatment for work-related injuries or illnesses. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and other necessary care.
- Temporary Disability Benefits
If an injury or illness prevents an employee from working while recovering, they may be eligible for temporary disability benefits. These benefits provide a portion of the lost wages during recovery, typically up to two-thirds of the average weekly wage.
- Permanent Disability Benefits
If an injury results in a permanent impairment that affects the employee’s ability to work, they may be entitled to permanent disability benefits. The amount is determined based on the nature and extent of the impairment and the impact on earning capacity.
- Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits (SJDB)
If an injured worker cannot return to their previous job due to permanent disability and their employer doesn’t offer suitable alternative work, they may qualify for SJDB. This benefit helps pay for education and retraining for a different job or occupation.
- Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Injured workers may sometimes receive vocational rehabilitation services to help them return to work. This may include job counseling, retraining, and assistance with job placement.
- Death Benefits
If a work-related injury or illness results in death, certain surviving dependents, such as spouses, children, or other eligible family members, may be entitled to death benefits, including burial expenses and weekly compensation.
Why Would I Need an Attorney if California Has a No-Fault Workers’ Compensation System?
Partnering with an experienced Santa Ana workers’ compensation attorney can be beneficial for various reasons, especially when dealing with a work-related injury or illness. All California workers need to know that workers’ compensation insurance providers do not approve every claim they receive. In fact, like other insurance providers, they often dispute claims upon receipt and leave injured workers in vulnerable positions, requiring them to build their cases while they are hurt.
While California is a no-fault workers’ compensation system, the insurance company will want tangible proof that you are as hurt as you say you are, which requires documentation, medical records, and other supporting evidence to succeed. We can help.
Some of the most common reasons why you might need a workers’ compensation attorney may include, but are not limited to:
- Understanding Your Rights
Workers’ compensation laws can be complex. Most California employees know a no-fault system is in place but are unsure how to ensure they make the most of their claims. Our lawyers can help you understand your rights and ensure you know the benefits you are entitled to and for how long.
- Navigating the Legal Process
The workers’ compensation claims process involves multiple levels of bureaucracy and red tape, including paperwork, deadlines, and legal procedures. An attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring all necessary documents are filed correctly and on time.
We advocate for your rights and interests and can help you navigate challenges, including denied claims, delayed benefits, or disputes with your employer or the insurance company.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies work hard to minimize payouts or deny valid claims, especially when dealing directly with injured workers. We will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to secure the maximum benefits available. This includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, vocational rehabilitation, and disability benefits.
- Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs)
Insurance companies may sometimes request an independent medical examination to assess your injuries. Our Santa Ana workers’ compensation lawyers can help ensure that the examination is impartial and that the results accurately reflect your condition.
- Legal Representation in Hearings or Appeals
Having our skilled workers’ compensation attorneys represent you can be crucial if your case goes to a hearing or requires an appeal. We can present evidence, question witnesses, and argue your case to ensure the best possible outcome.
Knowing you have a knowledgeable advocate can provide peace of mind during a challenging time. Our attorneys will handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
We Also Focus on the Following Practice Areas in Santa Ana:-
Contact Our Accomplished Santa Ana Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today
If you have been hurt at work in California, do not assume your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance provider is going to accept and pay your claim, Contact our experienced Santa Ana workers’ compensation attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto today to schedule a free consultation by calling (657)-216-6966. We can help you understand your legal rights and options to obtain benefits so you can focus on your recovery.