Workers’ Compensation

You might know that employers in California are required to provide Workers’ Compensation insurance coverage for their employees. But are you aware of the specific benefits you may be entitled to receive as an injured worker? Many people are unaware of their rights and eligibility for benefits until meeting with a Workers Compensation lawyer. At the Law Offices of John E. Hill, P.C., we work every day to help our clients obtain the full benefits they deserve under California law, including:

• Replacement of lost wages: As an injured worker, whether the injury occurred in an office, retail store, factory, construction sites or elsewhere, you may be able to obtain payments for temporary disability if you cannot work. The amount you can recover is usually two-thirds of your average weekly wages up to a maximum amount that changes yearly. Our workers’ compensation lawyers have the knowledge and experience to assist you in seeking the full amount of disability and workers’ compensation wages possible.
• Medical care: You are entitled to receive all necessary medical care for your injury. However, insurance companies and employers are allowed to pick and choose the doctors and practice groups that you’re permitted to see for treatment. Fortunately, if you’re unhappy with your physician you still have the right to change your doctor — and it’s vitally important to select a doctor who is not only a good practitioner, but also familiar with the technical and legal reporting requirements necessary to obtain swift approval for treatment and payment of disability benefits. At the Law Offices of John E. Hill, P.C., we know when and why you can change treating physicians and fight for your right to treatment and other benefits before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board.
• Permanent disability awards: Many injured workers return to their regular job and also receive “permanent disability” benefits. Permanent disability, in the Workers Compensation realm, means than it is unlikely that you will ever completely recover. From your work injury the greater the severity of the injury, the greater the compensation payments. Our lawyers will work with you to identify important facts that are often overlooked in order to maximize the amount of permanent disability compensation you receive.
• Educational and vocational retraining: If your employer cannot accommodate you with a modified position, you may be entitled to benefits that cover the cost of education and retraining.