Orange County is famous for its bustling metropolis and diverse economy. So long as you have the right qualifications, there’s a job for you down in Orange County. But with so many people working, there is also a risk of workplace injuries.
Back in 2021, the California Department of Industrial Relations compiled an FROI that listed Orange County as the third-highest location with the most injured workers. Now, laws are in place to help injured employees get back on their feet. These benefits can help you pay for your medical treatment, replace your lost wages, and even provide for your dependents if you’re unable to work.
But, to access these benefits, you would have to file a workers’ compensation claim; as we know, this can be a complicated process. That’s why talking to an experienced Orange County workers’ compensation attorney is essential.
Eligibility for compensation
Before you reach out to an attorney to file a compensation claim, ensure that all the following conditions apply to your situation:
- You are an employee
- Your illness or injury was caused by your job
- You reported said illness/injury to your employer within thirty days after it occurred or the date you knew about it
If you meet all the criteria above, then you’re good to go.
Benefits you are entitled to
The benefits you are entitled to will depend on the nature of your condition. Your attorney will review the complexity of your case and help you attain the most appropriate compensation. Nonetheless, here are some of the benefits that come with being injured on the job in Orange County:
Medical benefits
Your employer will be mandated to cover the cost of your medical expenses. These may include doctor’s visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and physical therapy.
Wage replacement benefits
The employee will be entitled to an agreed-upon amount that covers the period during which they are unable to work as a result of the injury or illness.
Disability benefits
If it happens that the employee becomes temporarily or permanently disabled as a result of the work hazard, they are entitled to compensation. The amount they get depends on the severity of the disability.
Death benefits
If the employee loses their life as a result of an occupational hazard, the company is mandated by Orange County laws to pay the family a compensatory amount.
Documents You need
The documents you need to provide will vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. But not to worry; with your attorney by your side, you should have no problems acquiring and presenting the necessary documents to the board.
Nonetheless, the list may include:
- WC-14 form: To let the employer know you will be filing a compensation claim
- Medical documents: To authenticate your health claims
- Employment documents: To show you were employed at the time of injury or illness
- Wage stubs: To show your weekly earnings so your compensations can be accurately calculated
The Process itself
Here are the steps on how to file a claim for workers’ compensation in Orange County:
- First, report to your employer within 3 days.
- Obtain a compensation claim form from either your employer or the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board website.
- Wait for feedback.
Final Thoughts
If your application is approved, your attorney will help you navigate the rest of the process and ensure you get the coverage you deserve.
If it is denied, however, your attorney jumps in and helps you appeal the decision to the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board.
Your compensation is your fundamental right. You must do all it takes to ensure that you eventually get it.
