Long Beach Work Injury Attorneys
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Long Beach Work Injury Attorneys Help Injured Workers Make Informed Decisions
Getting injured on the job can be a frightening experience. You might sustain an injury on a construction site, while driving a company vehicle, or if you slip and fall at work. These cases often involve multiple parties and are frequently complex. Our Long Beach work injury attorneys can explain the benefits that may be available to you. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to learn about your legal rights and options. We offer free initial consultations.
Under California law, all businesses are required to maintain a workers’ compensation insurance policy, regardless of the number of employees they have. Employers cannot punish or retaliate against employees who are injured and use their workers’ compensation benefits. Moreover, they cannot interfere with the workers’ compensation claims process.
In some cases, employees may also be entitled to file a personal injury claim. Your options depend on the specific facts of your case and the parties involved. Our skilled work injury lawyers can explain your avenues for compensation and guide you on your next steps.
How Our Work Injury Attorneys Serving Long Beach Can Help
When a work accident occurs in Long Beach, having skilled work injury lawyers on your side can be an advantage. We guide you through each step of the workers’ compensation system and help you understand your options. Once you work with us, we can assist by:
- Filing Claims & Gathering Evidence — We assist in preparing and submitting the necessary workers’ compensation forms, tracking important deadlines, and gathering supporting evidence, including medical records, workplace reports, and available footage.
- Communicating With the Insurance Carrier — We handle discussions with the workers’ compensation insurance carrier to help you access the medical treatment and wage-replacement benefits you may be entitled to under California law.
- Representing You Before the WCAB — If your claim is denied or disputed, we represent you before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). If a negligent third party contributed to your injury, we can also pursue a separate personal injury claim on your behalf.
- Discussing Your Other Options — We can also help you understand the additional benefits or support programs you may qualify for beyond workers’ compensation. Our team reviews your situation, explains your options, and guides you on how these programs may interact with your claim.
Our eighteen-year-old client was severely injured while working at the Defendant’s farm and using the Defendant’s tractor and harvesting machinery. While our client was stationed on the machinery, the tractor drove into a hole in the ground and it caused the machinery to collapsed on him, crushing his legs. The Defendant refused to accept responsibility and we were forced to arbitrate the case to verdict, in which we won and secured an $18.7 Million award.– BRIAN BEECHER
Why Choose Our Work Injury Lawyers In Long Beach
Our dedicated Long Beach work injury attorneys can help workers deal with the challenges of workplace injury claims. The following are some of the benefits of hiring us:
- Personalized Client Attention — Our team can provide customized service and support. We listen and try to understand your unique situation. Our goal is to tailor a strategy to your case and address your legal concerns.
- Knowledge in Work Injury Claims — Our lawyers possess a deep understanding of the nuances in workplace claims. We’ve managed similar cases and aim to help you pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.
- No Fees Unless We Win — If you’re asking, “Do lawyers only get paid if they win?” at Arash Law, the answer is yes. We work on a contingency fee basis. You only pay attorney’s fees if we secure compensation for you, though there may be case-related costs regardless of the outcome. This allows you to get legal support without upfront payments. We will explain our full payment structure clearly before representation begins.
How Work Injury Compensation In California Works
Workers who are injured on the job may be entitled to compensation through California’s workers’ compensation system. State law requires employers to carry this insurance to protect their employees. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Immediate Reporting of Injury to Employer — If you get hurt while working, report it to your employer right away. Workers’ compensation claims in California have strict deadlines. If your injury is an illness caused or made worse by your job, you must notify your employer within 30 days of learning about the condition.
- Fault Is Not an Issue — California workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. You do not need to prove who caused the accident to receive benefits. However, claims may be denied if the injury was caused by illegal actions or serious misconduct.
- Protection Against Retaliation — It is against the law for an employer to fire or punish you for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If retaliation occurs, you may pursue a separate claim for that.
- Injuries Outside the Workplace — An employer may still be responsible if you were injured while performing a work-related task outside the workplace. An exception may apply if you stepped away from your duties to handle personal matters.
- Most Disputes Settle Out of Court — Many workers’ compensation disputes are resolved through negotiation rather than going to trial. Settling usually takes less time and avoids a lengthy court process.
- Reasons for Claim Denial — Insurers may deny a claim or reduce benefits for several reasons, including:
- The injury did not occur.
- The injury was not work-related.
- The employee failed to follow reporting and filing rules.
- The disability or symptoms appear exaggerated or unsupported by medical evidence.
You may not be aware of your rights after a work injury, and mistakes in the process can lead to wrongful claim denials. If you want legal support as you navigate the process, our experienced Long Beach work injury attorneys can help. They can address your questions and provide guidance.
Deadlines In Filing A Claim After A Workplace Injury In California
California law gives injured workers and their families a limited time to take legal action. Acting quickly helps protect your rights and prevents important evidence from being lost. Here’s what you need to know about the deadlines:
- Personal injury claims related to a workplace accident (such as third-party cases) must generally be filed within two years.
- Workplace injuries must be reported to your employer within 30 days to protect your right to workers’ compensation.
- Workers’ compensation claims must be filed within one year of the date of injury.
- Third-party lawsuits may also be filed when a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or other outside party caused or contributed to the injury, and these claims follow the two-year personal injury deadline.
- Workplace death cases have different deadlines depending on the situation:
- Workers’ compensation death benefits must be filed within one year of the date of death, and the death must occur within 240 weeks of the injury.
- Wrongful death claims against negligent third parties follow a two-year deadline from the date of death.
Our Long Beach work injury attorneys can help you determine which deadlines apply to your case, gather evidence, and file the necessary paperwork on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions About Long Beach Work Injuries
Below are answers to common questions about work injury claims. If you have questions about your specific situation, our Long Beach work injury attorneys can provide guidance and help you understand your options.
How Much Would Work Injury Attorneys Near Me Cost?
The cost of hiring Long Beach injury attorneys can vary depending on various factors, such as:
- The complexity of the case.
- The extent of your injuries.
- Your attorney’s experience.
Financial concerns often prevent injured workers from seeking legal representation, and many look for free accident lawyer advice before deciding on their next course of action. Our team is here to answer your questions, explain your options, and help you understand the potential costs before you move forward.
What Is The Most Common Type Of Injury In The Work Environment?
Musculoskeletal disorders are the most common type of workplace injury. They affect the muscles, joints, and bones, and often involve back pain or repetitive strain injuries. These conditions can develop from prolonged periods of sitting or standing, poor ergonomics, or repetitive hand and wrist movements.
Can I Receive Both Workers' Compensation And Social Security Disability Benefits?
Yes, it is possible to receive workers’ compensation and Social Security Disability benefits simultaneously. However, if the combined amount is higher than a set limit based on your average earnings, your Social Security benefit may be reduced. This reduction, called an “offset,” prevents your total benefits from exceeding a certain portion of your pre-disability income.
What If A Third Party Was Involved In My Injury?
If a third party was involved in your injury, you may have the right to sue them for damages. Our Long Beach work injury lawyers can represent you in settlement negotiations and in court. We strive to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your injury.
Can I Be Fired For Filing A Workers’ Compensation Claim?
No, it is illegal for an employer to terminate your employment because of a workers’ compensation claim. California laws prohibit retaliation against employees who seek benefits after a workplace injury. You might have legal options if your employer retaliates against you after filing a claim. However, your employer can still take action if there are valid, non-retaliatory reasons for your termination.
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Common Workplace Injuries In Long Beach, CA
Workplace injuries can range from minor to life-altering, and more serious conditions often require longer recovery and more extensive medical care. Below are examples of serious injuries that can occur in Long Beach workplaces:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — Falls, falling objects, or equipment accidents can cause brain injuries. Brain injuries may lead to long-term physical or cognitive challenges and often require ongoing care.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Serious workplace accidents involving falls or machinery can damage the spine. These injuries may result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, or paralysis.
- Severe Burns — Exposure to flames, chemicals, or electrical sources can lead to severe burns. These injuries may result in scarring, long recovery periods, and emotional effects.
- Amputations — Equipment malfunctions or severe accidents may cause the loss of a limb. Amputations require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term adjustments.
- Vision or Hearing Loss — Trauma or long-term exposure to loud noise or hazardous materials can affect sight or hearing. These injuries often require specialized medical care and support.
- Multiple Fractures — Serious falls or crush incidents can cause fractures in several areas of the body. Treatment may involve the following:
- Surgery
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic treatments
- Extended recovery periods
- Crush Injuries — Heavy machinery or structural failures can cause crush injuries, leading to severe tissue damage. These injuries often require immediate medical care and lengthy rehabilitation.
If you suffered any of these injuries at work, or if you are unsure how your condition fits into California’s workers’ compensation system, legal guidance can help you understand your next steps. Our Long Beach work injury attorneys can review your situation, explain your rights, and help you move forward with your claim.
High-Risk Industries For Workplace Incidents
The following industries report higher rates of workplace incidents:
- Construction — This type of work comes with many hazards that can lead to fractures, head injuries, and long-term disabilities. Common risks include:
- Falls from heights
- Equipment malfunctions
- Exposure to hazardous materials
- Healthcare — Healthcare workers face risks on the job, including exposure to infectious diseases. The high-stress nature of their work can also lead to burnout and mental health challenges. These often-overlooked issues have a significant impact on workplace safety and overall well-being.
- Manufacturing & Warehousing — These work environments carry a high risk of equipment-related injuries. Workers may face accidents involving heavy machinery, repetitive motion injuries, overexertion, forklift accidents, and injuries from handling heavy loads.
- Transportation — Fatigue and exposure to road hazards pose serious risks to transportation workers. Mechanical failures, vehicle malfunctions, or collisions can also lead to severe injuries or even death.
If you sustained injuries while working in any of the industries above, our Long Beach work injury lawyers can help you understand your options and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under California law.
Workers’ Compensation Claim In Long Beach
Workers’ compensation insurance provides specific benefits to employees who are injured or become ill because of their job. In California, these benefits may include:
- Medical Expenses — If you are injured at work, workers’ compensation covers reasonable medical care needed to treat your injury. This includes doctor visits, medication, therapy, and other approved treatments.
- Temporary Disability Compensation — If your injury prevents you from working while you recover, you may be eligible for temporary disability compensation. If the claim is approved, these payments typically begin within 14 days of the insurer learning that you cannot work.
- Permanent Disability Compensation — If your injury results in a permanent loss of function, you may qualify for permanent disability benefits. The amount depends on the severity of your impairment, your age, and your occupation.
- Funeral Costs or Death Benefits — If a worker dies due to a job-related injury or illness, eligible dependents may receive death benefits. Workers’ compensation also provides a set amount for burial expenses.
- Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits (Retraining) — If you cannot return to your previous job because of your injury and your employer cannot offer modified or alternative work, you may qualify for a voucher to help pay for retraining or skill enhancement.
Contact our Long Beach work injury attorneys if you need more information about your legal options.
Third-Party Liability In Work Injury Cases
Workers’ compensation does not always cover all of the employees’ expenses. If someone else was negligent and contributed to your injury, you can file a third-party claim. Potential at-fault parties might include:
- Manufacturers of defective machinery or equipment.
- Contractors or subcontractors on multi-employer worksites.
- Property owners, if the injury occurred on property not owned by your employer.
- Negligent drivers in vehicle accidents that occur while you are working.
- Suppliers or maintenance companies of faulty equipment or hazardous materials.
If you’re wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer to file a claim?” The answer depends on your needs. However, working with our Long Beach work injury attorneys might offer advantages. They can help you:
- Understand available workers’ compensation benefits.
- Recognize the role of negligence in personal injury cases.
- File a lawsuit when applicable.
- Document evidence and witness statements.
- Be aware of the eligibility criteria and deadlines.
How To Prove Negligence In A Third-Party Claim?
Unlike workers’ compensation, which does not require proving fault, a third-party personal injury claim follows standard negligence rules. To succeed, you must show that the third party’s actions or failure to act directly contributed to your injury. This requires establishing four elements:
- Duty of Care — The third party had a legal responsibility to act reasonably under the circumstances. For example, equipment manufacturers must design safe machinery, and property owners must keep their premises in a reasonably safe condition.
- Breach of Duty — The third party failed to meet that standard of care. This could include providing defective equipment, failing to repair known hazards, or operating a vehicle carelessly while you were performing work duties.
- Causation — The breach must be directly connected to your injury. In other words, your harm must have resulted from the third party’s negligent actions, not from an unrelated or unavoidable cause.
- Damages — You must have suffered actual losses because of the incident. These losses may include medical bills, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, or other financial and non-economic harm recognized under California law.
If a third party’s negligence contributed to your injury, our Long Beach work injury attorneys can review your case and explain your options for seeking compensation. Contact us for a free consultation to learn more about your rights under California law.
Damages You Can Pursue In A Third-Party Claim
A third-party claim allows you to seek various economic and non-economic damages to compensate for losses caused by another’s acts. Economic damages are quantifiable losses, such as:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage repair/replacement
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Non-economic damages are subjective and non-monetary losses. These include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Physical impairment or disfigurement
Although rarely awarded, punitive damages may also be applicable in cases where a defendant acted with malice or intentionally disregarded others’ safety.
Understanding the types of damages available can help you see what may be recoverable in a third-party case. If someone else’s negligence contributed to your injury, our Long Beach work injury lawyers can review your circumstances and help you move forward.
Steps To Take After A Work Injury
After a work injury, you should take some steps to help protect your health, right to workers’ compensation benefits, and potential third-party claims. We recommend doing the following:
- Get Medical Attention — Your health is your top priority. Ensure you seek medical care immediately and follow treatment recommendations. Keep detailed records of your medical expenses and care to ensure accurate reimbursement.
- Report Your Injury to Your Employer — You are generally required to report the injury to your employer promptly under California workers’ compensation rules. Taking immediate action can help prevent disputes about your claim.
- Document Everything — Keep a record of everything related to your injury. It may include:
- Your medical bills
- Communications with your employer
- Any changes in your condition
- You may need this documentation if you file a claim or seek additional compensation.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim — Fill out the Workers’ Compensation Claim Form (DWC-1). After completion, submit it to your employer. Submitting the DWC-1 typically begins the formal workers’ compensation process. It will serve as proof that you intend to seek compensation.
- Consult Experienced Work Injury Attorneys in Long Beach — Claims involving severe injuries can be complex and may involve substantial legal and medical issues. Our work injury attorneys in Long Beach can help you with the legal process. We can also assist you in exploring third-party compensation options.
Morales v. Construction Group Staffing (settled on 7/23/2020) – settlement involving a client who was catastrophically injured when he fell from a height of 4 stories down a shaft. This is a record breaking California Workers’ Compensation settlement. Read more about this case on Yahoo! Finance News.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Work-Related Injury Statistics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded 5,283 fatal work injuries in the U.S. in 2023. This data was a 3.7% decrease from 5,486 in 2022. It dropped from 3.7 per 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers in 2022 to 3.5 in 2023.
- On average, a worker died from a work-related injury every 99 minutes in 2023.
- In the same year, transportation incidents accounted for 36.8% (1,942) of all occupational fatalities.
Work-related injuries pose a high risk to employees across various industries. They often lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Our Long Beach work injury attorneys can review your situation, explain your rights, and guide you through the available legal options. They can also discuss potential workers’ compensation and third-party claims and help you understand the next steps.
Contact Our Long Beach Work Injury Attorneys For Legal Help!
There may be serious and long-term consequences for your physical health if you sustain an injury at work. Workplace injuries can also impact your mental well-being, financial stability, career path, and personal relationships.
Contact us for legal guidance if you sustained an injury at work. Arash Law can evaluate your case and explain your options in seeking compensation. We aim to assist you throughout the legal process.
Schedule a free initial consultation with our Long Beach work injury lawyers. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case? ” form. If your injuries prevent you from visiting our office, we can meet you anywhere in California.
In addition to work-related cases, our Long Beach injury law firm also handles traffic-related cases. Our car accident lawyers handle accidents involving Uber and Lyft as well as truck and semi-truck collisions. We also handle other personal injury cases, including those involving hit-and-run accidents, dog bites, DUIs, and pedestrian incidents.
We assist injured individuals from Lakewood, Bellflower, Compton, Los Alamitos, Paramount, Cerritos, Norwalk, Downey, Lynwood, Belmont Heights, Belmont Shore, Rossmoor, Seal Beach, Signal Hill, and Torrance, as well as clients from other communities throughout California.
