Steps to Take After a Construction Accident
- Report the accident to your employer (within 14 days of the accident is ideal)
- Seek medical treatment, in California you may see your personal physician as your treating doctor but only if:
- Your employer provides regular health care coverage
- You have given your employer written notice (predesignation) that you want your personal physician to address all future work-related injuries
- Document everything, especially potential witnesses
- Decline to give statements
- Call an attorney
Why you should call an attorney even if there is Worker's Compensation
- Unclear Work-Related Injuries: Call a lawyer if your injury may not be clearly work-related, requires extensive medical treatment, or results in permanent disability.
- Denied Claims: If your worker's compensation claim is denied, an attorney can help appeal and fight for your rights.
- Difficulty Getting Treatment: When you're unable to access the necessary medical treatment, an attorney can intervene to ensure you receive what you need.
- Disputed Disability Rating: If there's a dispute over your permanent disability rating, a lawyer can help argue your case for a fair assessment.
- Upcoming Hearings: Representation by a lawyer at a worker's compensation hearing can significantly impact the outcome in your favor.
What an Attorney Could Do for You
When you sustain a work-related injury, here are six key ways an attorney can assist you.
Navigating Medical Care Claims
An attorney ensures that all medical treatments necessary for recovery from your work-related injury are covered by your employer, advocating for your right to comprehensive healthcare.
Securing Temporary Disability Benefits
If you're unable to work while recovering, an attorney can help secure temporary disability benefits to compensate for your lost wages, ensuring financial stability during your recovery period.
Obtaining Permanent Disability Benefits
For injuries resulting in lasting effects, an attorney can assist in obtaining permanent disability benefits, ensuring you are compensated for long-term impairments.
Facilitating Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits
In cases where you're unable to return to your previous job due to your injuries, an attorney can help obtain vouchers for retraining or skill enhancement, aiding in your career transition post-injury.
Claiming Death Benefits
An attorney can support families in securing death benefits, providing crucial financial assistance to dependents if a work injury or illness results in a worker's death.
Representing You in Disputes and Hearings
If there are disputes over any aspect of your worker’s compensation claim, or if a hearing is necessary, an attorney will represent and advocate on your behalf to ensure your rights are protected and your benefits are maximized.