There are few things worse than sustaining a serious injury on the job. Job-related injuries are two-fold, in that 1) you’re injured and require compensation to cover the cost of your medical bills and other injury-related expenses and 2) you’ll most likely be unable to return to work due to your injury to continue making money to help cover those costs. Fortunately, with an experienced Contra Costa County work injury lawyer in your corner, you do have options. Contact O’Connor Law APC today to schedule your free consultation with our firm.
Over the years, we’ve seen and helped countless individuals who’ve been hurt on the job here in California, and we’re here to help you as well. By speaking with a Contra Costa County injury lawyer today, you’re taking a big step to protect your future.
Though we tend to think of work injuries occurring solely on job sites involving physical labor, the truth is that injuries can happen at virtually any place of employment. We’ve seen work injuries occur at the following, to name a few:
Just some of the most common types of injuries we’ve seen happen on the job here in Contra Costa County, California, are as follows:
If you’ve sustained any of the aforementioned injuries while on the job, there’s a strong chance you’ll qualify for financial compensation, and our firm is here to help you receive it.
If you’ve been injured while performing your job duties, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under California law. These claims are designed to provide injured workers with crucial financial and medical support, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. At O’Connor Law APC, we’re here to walk you through every step of the process and fight to ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.
Who Qualifies for Workers’ Compensation in California?
In California, virtually all employees are covered by workers’ compensation from the moment they begin their job. This includes full-time, part-time, and even some seasonal or temporary workers. Whether you were injured in a one-time accident or developed a condition over time due to repetitive motion or prolonged exposure (such as carpal tunnel or occupational illness), you may have a valid claim.
It’s important to note that independent contractors typically aren’t eligible for workers’ compensation—but that classification can sometimes be challenged. If you’re unsure of your employment status or your eligibility, our firm can help clarify your rights.
What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?
Workers’ compensation benefits in California can help offset the wide-ranging financial consequences of a workplace injury. These benefits may include:
The Process of Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in California
Time is critical when it comes to filing a claim. If you’ve been injured on the job, you should notify your employer as soon as possible—ideally within 30 days. Your employer is then required to provide you with a workers’ compensation claim form (DWC-1). Once you complete and return the form, this starts the formal claims process.
From there, your employer’s insurance company will investigate the claim and determine eligibility. While this may sound straightforward, claims are sometimes delayed, underpaid, or denied entirely. That’s where having a skilled attorney in your corner can make all the difference. We’ll handle the paperwork, communicate with the insurance company on your behalf, and, if necessary, advocate for your rights in hearings or appeals.
Workers’ compensation claims are no-fault injury claims and are the most common when it comes to work-related injuries. However, if you were injured due to another party’s negligence on the job who is not your employer, you may qualify for a third-party claim. In a third-party claim, we will sue a liable third party, such as a property owner, independent contractor, architect, or otherwise, for compensation. There is no set cap on the amount of damages a person can recover in a third-party claim, unlike a workers’ compensation claim.
If you were hurt on the job, our firm is prepared to assess the circumstances of your injury and determine the best path forward to help ensure you recover maximum compensation. Contact a work injury lawyer from O’Connor Law APC today so we can get started.
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