Sustaining injuries at work can be daunting, and understanding your entitlements under the California Workers’ Compensation Act can be complex. This is where a dedicated workers’ compensation attorney can come into play. Here are six reasons why engaging a workers’ compensation attorney can aid you in securing the rightful compensation.
Advocating and Negotiating on Your Behalf
Handling negotiations with an employer’s insurance company is a tough task, particularly if you are representing yourself. The insurance company’s legal team is seasoned in handling such cases, while for you, it might be a new terrain. An attorney well-versed in California law can skillfully negotiate to ensure you receive adequate compensation for your workplace injuries.
Shielding You from Employer Retaliation
Regrettably, some employers may resort to harassment or intimidation to prevent an increase in their insurance premiums following a workplace injury. They may not be open to a fair settlement and may retaliate against an employee who has lodged a claim. Engaging a workers’ compensation attorney signals to your employer that intimidation won’t deter you from pursuing your claim.
Ensuring Proper Settlement Wording
Many claimants overlook the potential pitfalls of a poorly phrased settlement. Certain phrasing could restrict the amount of money you can seek from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). A seasoned attorney can ensure your settlement doesn’t contain any hidden clauses that might deny you benefits from Medicaid or Medicare.
Presenting Persuasive Evidence
Even with an excellent employment record and eyewitness accounts of the workplace incident causing your injury, a successful claim isn’t guaranteed. It’s crucial to present tangible evidence of the incident and medical records documenting your diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can guide you in presenting compelling physical evidence.
No Initial Costs
Most workers’ compensation attorneys provide a free initial consultation to assess the best legal course of action. If an attorney accepts your case, you typically won’t have to pay anything until your claim is successful. This contingency fee arrangement incentivizes your attorney to advocate fiercely for your rights, as they only get paid when you do.
Specialized Knowledge
While workers’ compensation laws historically favored employees to avoid lengthy litigation, changes have tipped the scales somewhat towards employers. A judge involved in a workers’ compensation claim cannot offer you legal advice, especially regarding settlement fairness. A California workers’ compensation attorney brings specialized knowledge to secure the most favorable settlement for you.
Despite California’s worker-friendly laws, consulting a licensed lawyer can be invaluable in ensuring you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. If you require legal representation or have any questions related to a workers’ compensation claim, feel free to contact PLBH by filling out our online form or calling us at (800) 435-7542.