Workers’ Compensation Attorney San Bernardino County.

If you have been injured while on the job in San Bernardino County, California, then you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. It is important to seek the help of an experienced workers' compensation attorney in San Bernardino County to ensure that you receive the benefits that you are entitled to. They can help you understand the workers’ compensation system, file your workers’ compensation claim, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.

In California, workplace injuries are unfortunately all too common, with thousands of individuals suffering from work-related accidents each year. In fact, according to the California Department of Industrial Relations, there were over 466,000 reported work-related injuries and illnesses in 2019 alone. San Bernardino, in particular, saw a significant number of these incidents, with hundreds of workers getting hurt on the job each month.

For over 20 years, Chen & Nowzari LLP has been committed to providing exceptional legal services to individuals who have suffered injuries due to workplace accidents in San Bernardino County. Our attorneys work tirelessly to defend the rights of injured workers, ensuring that they receive the compensation they are entitled to under California law. If you or a loved one has been injured on the job in the county of San Bernardino, our team of experienced workers' compensation attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of the workers' compensation system.

Overview of Workers' Compensation Laws in California

Workers' compensation laws in California are designed to protect employees who are injured or become ill while on the job. California law requires employers to provide workers' compensation benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job duties. This includes providing medical care and compensation for lost wages, as well as benefits for permanent disabilities or death.

The California workers' compensation system is a "no-fault" system, which means that employees are entitled to benefits regardless of who was at fault for the injury or illness. In addition, California law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who file a workers' compensation claim.

Overview of Workers' Compensation Laws in San Bernardino County

In the county of San Bernardino, employers must carry workers' compensation insurance in order to pay for medical expenses and other related costs that may arise from a workplace injury or illness. It also provides disability benefits and death benefits for the employee's family in the event of an accident. Employees who suffer an injury on the job are entitled to receive these benefits regardless of fault due to California's no-fault system.

At Chen & Nowzari LLP, our experienced San Bernardino County workers' compensation attorney can help you understand your rights under California law so that you can receive the full financial coverage you need after an injury or illness.

Injuries That Qualify For Workers' Compensation

In the county of San Bernardino, there are several types of injuries that can qualify for workers' compensation, including:

  • Automotive accidents that occur while driving for work-related purposes, such as making deliveries or running errands for your employer

  • Bus accidents that happen while operating or riding on a company-owned bus as part of your job duties

  • Brain injuries resulting from workplace accidents, such as falls or being struck by objects

  • Burn injuries caused by fires, explosions, or exposure to hazardous chemicals or substances while on the job

  • Back and spinal cord injuries, which can occur due to heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or accidents such as falls or collisions

  • Catastrophic injuries, including amputations, paralysis, or severe burns, that result in long-term disability or require extensive medical treatment

  • Construction site accidents, which can be caused by falls, electrocution, or being struck by equipment or materials while on the job.

  • Slip and fall accidents, which can occur due to wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or other hazards in the workplace

  • Occupational illnesses, including exposure to hazardous chemicals or toxins that can cause long-term health problems

  • Aggravation of pre-existing conditions, such as back pain or joint problems, that are exacerbated by work-related activities

It is important to note that workers' compensation laws and regulations can vary by state and jurisdiction, so it is important to consult with a local attorney San Bernardino County workers' compensation specialist to understand your rights and options.

Man in a cast holding a worker's compensation claim form after being injured at work

Compensation Benefits Available for Injured Workers

Depending on the nature of the injury and the state in which you live, there are various types of benefits available for those who qualify. Employees who have suffered a workplace injury or illness may be entitled to the following types of workers' compensation benefits:

  • Medical expenses: Benefits that cover the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and medication for injuries or illnesses that arise from work-related activities.

  • Lost wages: Benefits that compensate employees for wages lost due to their work-related injury or illness, typically covering a percentage of their average weekly wage.

  • Disability payments: Benefits that provide financial assistance to employees who have suffered a permanent or temporary disability that impairs their ability to work and earn a living.

  • Vocational rehabilitation services: Benefits that offer retraining, education, and job placement services to employees who cannot return to their previous job due to a work-related injury or illness.

  • Death benefits: Benefits that provide financial support to the dependents of an employee who dies as a result of a work-related injury or illness.

How To File a Claim For Workers' Compensation

In order to file a claim for workers' compensation in California you must:

  1. Report your injury or illness to your employer as soon as possible. This should be done in writing and include details about when and how the injury occurred. In California, an injured worker typically has one year from the date of their injury to file a workers' compensation claim according to the statute of limitations.

  2. Seek medical treatment for your injury or illness. Your employer may provide you with a list of approved doctors, but you are free to choose your own physician.

  3. Fill out and submit a claim form (DWC-1) to your employer's workers' compensation insurance carrier. You can also file this form with the Division of Workers' Compensation if your employer does not provide you with a form.

  4. Wait for your claim to be reviewed by your employer's workers' compensation insurance carrier. They will either accept or deny your claim.

  5. If your claim is accepted, you will receive benefits, including medical treatment, temporary disability payments, and permanent disability payments. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

Worker's compensation claim form

How Chen & Nowzari LLP Can Help

Our experienced attorneys here at Chen & Nowzari LLP are dedicated to helping injured workers throughout Southern California receive the full amount of compensation they are entitled to under workers' compensation laws. We understand the complexities of filing a claim and take the time to thoroughly review all documents and evidence related to your injury or illness in order to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits available.

Our attorneys have a proven track record of success in securing compensation and benefits for injured workers, and we are committed to providing personalized attention and support to each of our clients throughout the legal process. Whether you have been injured on the job or have a work-related illness, our team is here to provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need. Trust us to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.

Contact an Experienced Workers' Compensation Attorney In San Bernardino

It is important to contact an experienced workers' compensation attorney as soon as possible if you have been injured or become ill due to your job. A workers' compensation attorney will help guide you through the process from filing a claim to obtaining the benefits and compensation you are entitled to under state law. 

As trusted workers' compensation attorneys in San Bernardino County, our team here at Chen & Nowzari LLP is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our legal team can provide the support and representation you need for a successful resolution.

Gavel on a desk representing the legal system

FAQs

For more answers to questions like these, please visit our FAQ page.

  • The maximum and minimum disability payments are determined by the state's average weekly wage. This suggests that they are modified and subject to change in response to economic volatility. The highest weekly payout in 2020 was $1,299.43, while the lowest was $194.91.

  • The average California workers' compensation payout is between $2,000 and $20,000. This amount may vary depending on the severity of the injuries and other considerations.

    Typically, the compensation will be equal to two-thirds of your pre-tax lost earnings.

  • The amount of time required to conclude a workers' compensation litigation is dependent on a number of factors. If the workers' compensation lawsuit goes to trial, though, it might take many months. You may anticipate receiving the lump-sum payment thirty days after the court approves the settlement.