Thousands of workers in California report to their places of employment each day, eager to work hard in order to support themselves and their families. Unfortunately, many workers may not realize the risk in which they place themselves simply by fulfilling their work responsibilities. Many are injured or killed in workplace accidents that often leave workers and/or their family members wondering how they will cope with the financial ramifications. These people may deserve workers’ compensation insurance benefits.
Workers’ compensation insurance is purchased by employers in order to provide for employees in the event they are injured or become ill as a result of their job responsibilities. While these benefits cover a wide range of potential financial complications, they do not cover pain and suffering. Those who accept such benefits after a workplace injury or illness cannot sue their employers.
In addition to providing for medical bills, workers’ compensation benefits cover the costs of retraining if an employee is unable to return to work in the same capacity, as well as lost income. Injured workers are qualified for wage replacement after only a few days of work is missed. While it typically only covers 2/3 of missed wages, the compensation is untaxed. Death benefits are extended to surviving family members in the event of a fatality.
The aftermath of a work-related accident, illness or death is often a time of great stress for the injured worker and/or his or her family members. While they likely qualify for workers’ compensation insurance benefits in California, the process is another added stress during an already difficult time. In order to ensure they are treated fairly and to reduce their burdens, many who deserve such benefits seek the help of an experienced professional who is willing to fight on their behalves.
Source: FindLaw, “Workers’ Comp Benefits Explained“, Accessed on Jan. 5, 2016
