Attorneys Tips for Los Angeles Workers’ Comp Cases–
The best way to prepare for a Los Angeles worker’s comp case is to understand your legal rights and responsibilities. Our experienced workers’ comp attorneys have successfully obtained workers’ comp benefits for thousands of clients. This article contains several legal “tips” to help you maximize your ability to collect the workers’ compensation for which you qualify.
However, remember that there is no substitute for the advice of an experienced workers comp attorney. Our skilled and experienced workers’ comp attorneys offer a free, no obligation consultation to understand how the law applies to your unique situation.
Designate a Treating Physician
Your employer has a form that you can complete which informs your employer who you choose to be your treating doctor should you be injured at work. If you haven’t done so, pre-designate your treating doctor – before a workers’ compensation claim arises. Be sure to date the pre-designation form and keep a copy for your records.
Your family doctor is usually a good choice. Our experienced workers’ comp attorneys recommend that you designate your personal doctor because they have gotten to know you over the years and are in a better position to give you the best personal medical care – rather than a doctor who is called in on an emergency & doesn’t know your medical history.
If no pre-injury choice has been made, your employer will have the right to control your medical treatment until you have an opportunity to elect a change of doctors, 30 days after the date your injury is reported.
Take Inventory of Other Insurance Policies
Short or Long Term Disability policies, and/or mortgage insurance policies, may be lifesavers if you are not able to return to work within a reasonable time. They may be especially important if your employer or their insurance company initially refuses to pay your workers comp benefits! Supplemental insurance policies you may have can “tide you over” until your attorney gets the Workers’ Comp benefits you deserve.
Report Your Workplace Injury to Your Supervisor Immediately
Ask your supervisor for an “Employee’s Claim for Workers’ Compensation Benefits” Form (DWC Form 1). Complete the top portion of the form. Always request that your copy be given to you – with the employer’s portion completed- on the same day, if at all possible.
Of course, if you have trouble with this or any part of the application process, our workers’ compensation attorneys will be happy to help you.
Ask for the Workers Comp Doctor’s Phone Number
Your employer is required by law to provide this information to you. If you experience any trouble getting this information from your employer, our workers’ compensation attorneys will be happy to help you get the information you need.
Digital Documentation & Workers Comp Cases
Modern technology has transformed how workplace injuries should be documented. Using your smartphone to photograph workplace conditions, equipment involved in the injury, and visible injuries (when appropriate) can provide valuable evidence. Additionally, keeping digital copies of all correspondence, including emails and text messages with supervisors about the injury, can strengthen your case. Remember to back up these digital records and share them with your attorney.
Understanding Telehealth Rights in Workers’ Comp
California now provides expanded rights for telehealth medical treatment in workers’ compensation cases. Following legislative changes prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, injured workers can often receive initial evaluations and follow-up care through video consultations. This can be particularly valuable for workers with mobility issues or those in remote areas. However, it’s important to understand which types of medical visits qualify for telehealth and which require in-person examination.
Social Media Considerations During Your Workers Comp Cases
Social media activity can significantly impact workers’ compensation claims. Insurance companies routinely monitor claimants’ social media posts for evidence that might contradict injury claims. Be cautious about posting any content related to your injury, work activities, or physical capabilities. Even innocent posts about daily activities could be misinterpreted and used to challenge your claim.
Understanding the Workers Comp QME and AME Processes
The Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) and Agreed Medical Evaluator (AME) processes have become increasingly important in workers’ compensation cases. Understanding how to prepare for these evaluations is crucial. This includes gathering all relevant medical records, being prepared to accurately describe your injury and symptoms, and understanding the specific role these medical professionals play in your case determination.
Return-to-Work Accommodations Under Workers Comp Law
Recent changes to California labor law have expanded workers’ rights regarding return-to-work accommodations. Employers must now engage in a more thorough interactive process to identify potential accommodations. Understanding these rights is crucial when negotiating your return to work or considering alternative positions. This includes knowledge of ergonomic modifications, schedule adjustments, and remote work options that might allow you to continue working while recovering.
Workers Comp Concurrent Benefits & Coordination of Care
Workers should understand how workers’ compensation benefits interact with other available benefits, including state disability insurance, Social Security disability, and private insurance. Recent changes in California law have clarified how these benefits can be coordinated to maximize support during recovery while avoiding potential offsets or reductions in benefits. Understanding these interactions early in your case can help prevent benefit complications later.
Consult with an Experienced Los Angeles Workers’ Comp Attorney
As you can see, collecting workers compensation is not a simple or straightforward matter. Having an experienced Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney is the most important resource in guiding you successfully through the workers compensation process. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys are certified by the California Bar Association as Certified Specialists in workers’ compensation law. We know how to speed your case along and what to do to obtain the maximum benefits.
Our knowledgeable attorneys will fight aggressively to obtain the workers’ comp benefits you are entitled to. And, if your injury prevents you from returning to your same pre-injury occupation, our attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure that you and your family are taken care of financially.
Los Angeles Workers Comp Attorneys: 800-964-8047

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