Workers’ Compensation Attorney Santa Barbara

Types of Injuries That Can Qualify for Workers' Compensation Benefits

When it comes to workplace injuries, many people assume that workers' compensation is only available for physical injuries. However, the truth is that a variety of injuries can qualify for workers' compensation benefits, ranging from physical to mental and emotional distress. If you have been injured at work in Santa Barbara, a Workers' Compensation Lawyer can help you understand your rights and determine whether or not you qualify for benefits.

Common types of workplace injuries that may qualify for Workers' Compensation Benefits include:

• Physical Injuries – These can range from strains and sprains to broken bones, burns, disfigurement or amputation.

• Mental or Emotional Stress – This may include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental or emotional distress caused by the work environment.

• Occupational Diseases – These are illnesses that may develop over time as a result of long-term exposure to toxic conditions, such as asbestos or other hazardous materials.

Types of Workers' Compensation Benefits Available

Santa Barbara County offers a variety of workers' compensation benefits to assist employees who experience work-related injuries or illnesses with financial stability and medical care during their recovery period.

• Medical benefits provide coverage for medical treatment necessary for work-related injuries or illnesses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medication.

• Disability benefits offer financial support when an employee is unable to work due to a work-related injury or illness for a certain period of time.

• Vocational rehabilitation benefits offer job training and additional services to support employees in returning to work after experiencing a work-related injury or illness.

• Death benefits offer financial assistance to the dependents of a worker who passes away due to a work-related injury or illness.

• Legal benefits include representation for employees who need to appeal a workers' compensation decision or file a lawsuit related to a work injury or illness.

• Wage replacement benefits are available to eligible employees for the duration of their inability to work caused by injury or illness.

How to File a Claim For Workers' Compensation in California

If you are injured as a result of your work in California, you have the right to file a claim for workers' compensation benefits. This is true regardless of who caused the injury or what type of job you have. Filing a claim for workers' compensation requires following certain steps and ensuring that all laws and regulations are met.

1. Report Your Injury Immediately: In California, you must report your injury to your employer within 30 days of the incident, or in some cases, within one year.

2. Get Medical Treatment: You are eligible to receive medical treatment related to a work-related injury at no cost.

3. Fill Out and File the Workers' Compensation Claim Form: This form must be filled out and filed with the State of California's Division of Workers' Compensation.

4. Receive Your Benefits: Depending on the severity of your injury and claim, you may be approved for medical treatment, wage replacement, and other benefits.

To discuss legal options after a work-related injury in Santa Barbara, contact our team at Chen & Nowzari LLP. Our attorneys are experienced in workers' compensation law and can assist in obtaining full benefits under California law.