The bad news is that accidents on the job are all too common in California. The better news is that workers’ compensation is there to help employees who have been injured on the job. However, this coverage is not as simple as some people may think it is. Keep reading to discover three of the most important facts we think you should know about workers’ compensation and then contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
1. You Should Work if You Can
If working is going to exacerbate your injury, or if you are emotionally unable to keep working as you did before, then you should not work. However, if you are physically and emotionally able to work then you should. Workers’ compensation is intended to help you pay the bills while you are out of work and to cover medical costs, but it is not a permanent replacement for a job.
Note as well that even if you are declared by a doctor to be “temporary totally disabled,” your payments are just 2/3rds of your average weekly pay – and these payments will not last more than 104 weeks. We would never encourage a client to go back to work before they are physically and emotionally capable of doing so, but we also want to ensure you know that returning to work is not going to negatively impact your case. If you can work, you should.
2. It is Essential to Keep Written Records
One of the most important aspects of proving your case is providing a meticulous written record of accident and subsequent injuries. You also need records of any compensation payment you receive, including the date of said payment, what period it covered, and the amount of the payment. Keep check stubs when possible. Keep similar records of all treatments you get for your injury, including the date, kind of treatment, and pain levels before, during, and after the treatment.
3. You Must Stay in Contact with Your Attorney
It is essential that you stay in contact with your attorney throughout this process. Remember that your attorney is your best ally and your greatest protector. You should immediately communicate any developments to your attorney. For example, if your doctor releases you to work, if your employer asks you any questions about your injury or your health, or if you are having issues with your medical treatment, your attorney should know.
These are three of the most important facts to be aware of as you move forward working with an attorney. If you have been injured at work, do not fall into the trap of assuming you can handle this situation on your own. While this may work out fine in the end, your best option is to have an attorney on your side from the beginning. Contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 now for your free legal consultation.
