Top Reasons to Get a Lawyer for Your Workers’ Compensation Claim in California

Workers in California who become injured or sick on the job are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. The claimant, however, will have to navigate through an ocean of papers, timelines, and insurance company games.

To make matters easier, employees hire the services of a workers’ compensation lawyer to assist them in claiming benefits that rightfully belong to them. These lawyers are familiar with disputes, arguing appeal denials, and pursuing medical treatment and monetary benefits for claimants.

Here are some reasons you may want a lawyer to help you with your California workers’ compensation claim.

Challenge Denied Claims

Most workers have to deal with denied claims when working with California’s compensation system. Whether it’s for missing paperwork or a dispute over what caused an injury, insurance companies usually push back.

A lawyer knows how to dismantle the reasons for denial and find the legal grounds for an appeal. They assist in gathering medical evidence, statements from expert witnesses, and documents supporting your case.

With the help of a professional legal representative, your chances of having your benefits reinstated after a denial will increase substantially. These professionals can help you avoid common pitfalls that could derail your appeal process and maximize every potential advantage in court or during settlement negotiations.

Secure Higher Settlement Offers

Insurance companies want to settle claims for the lowest amount of money possible. Their adjusters often lowball injured workers who are not represented by counsel.

With legal assistance, an injured worker might bargain for a much larger settlement sum. Lawyers use their knowledge of case values, medical costs, and lost wages from future work to determine what they are entitled to.

If insurers do not respond to this issue, a lawyer can take the case to court or arbitration. This step in itself is often enough to induce better offers from insurers.

Reduce Social Security Disability Impact

“Workers’ compensation settlements for California workers may affect one’s Social Security Disability benefits. For those who do not plan, large lump-sum settlements could minimize the overall amount of disability payments one may receive,” says workers’ compensation lawyer Scott Silberman of Silberman & Lam LLP.

An attorney can advise you regarding the structuring of the settlement to minimize or eliminate the impact on your SSD payments. Perhaps they can negotiate for periodic payments as opposed to a lump sum to protect your future Social Security benefits.

Moreover, lawyers can work directly with Social Security representatives to ensure that your workers’ compensation benefits and disability benefits are coordinated properly. This reduces the risk of any unexpected reductions or penalties.

Legal Prowess

You may find it challenging to understand workers’ compensation laws in California. These regulations are replete with legal terminologies and change pretty often, so it is rather easy to overlook an important aspect when handling your case.

An attorney offers several years of experience in correctly interpreting relevant laws and applying them strategically. They know exactly how certain rulings and precedents will impact claims like yours.

In court, lawyers can present your case with confidence and make strong legal arguments to increase the chances of your winning. Their experience with the system sees to it that all papers are correctly filed and deadlines are clearly met.

Minimize Stress and Anxiety

It can be stressful to deal with a worker’s compensation claim on your own when you are trying to recover from an injury. Constant telephone calls by the insurance adjusters and trying to work out confusing procedures in court are stresses you do not need.

A seasoned lawyer takes the claims burden off your shoulders, allowing you more time to worry about your health. They can negotiate the settlement and communicate with all parties concerned, handling everything involved.

Furthermore, since most lawyers work on a contingency basis, you are not required to pay any upfront legal fees. You can pay them only when compensation for your claim has been secured.