Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workers compensation in California is a state-mandated program that enables employees to receive compensation if they were injured while on the job in Los Angeles, regardless of who was responsible for the injuries.

The injured employee is entitled to certain workers’ comp benefits such as medical care, temporary or permanent disability payments, and wage loss benefits. If the employee is injured on the job, he is entitled to receive workers’ compensation for his treatment including medical bills and prescription costs. Certain workers’ compensation plans may require the employee to visit the company’s doctor of choice for the first 30 days of treatment.

If the injury requires the employee to take time off work, the employee may be entitled to temporary disability payments which are equal to almost two-thirds of their regular wage. If the injury results in some form of permanent disability, then the injured employee may be entitled to permanent disability payments. The amount and frequency of the payments depend on the limitations the injury has caused the employee’s ability to work or earn a wage. They may also receive vocational rehabilitation. In cases where the injured employee is able to return to work but cannot work in the same capacity as before, resulting in lesser earnings than they were receiving before the work injury, then they may be entitled to wage loss benefits to compensate for the earnings they have lost.

If you or a loved one has been injured on the job and are eligible for workers’ compensation in Los Angeles, CA benefits but your employer is violating the terms of your claim, you may benefit from the assistance of a skilled attorney. An attorney will review the details of your situation and help you receive the compensation you deserve.

What Workers’ Compensation Typically Covers

While benefits may vary depending on the state and your employer’s insurance plan, most workers’ compensation policies are designed to cover:

• Medical treatment for work-related injuries or illnesses

• Prescription medications and medical devices (like crutches or wheelchairs)

• Hospital stays and surgeries if required by the injury

• Rehabilitation or therapy services to restore function and help employees return to work

• Mileage reimbursement for travel to and from medical appointments

These protections ensure that employees are not left paying out-of-pocket for treatment that directly results from their employment.

Common Workplace Injuries That Lead to Claims

Workers’ compensation claims often stem from a wide range of job-related injuries and illnesses. Some of the most common include:

• Slip-and-fall accidents in the workplace

• Repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome

• Back and neck injuries caused by lifting or heavy labor

• Illnesses from toxic exposure (chemicals, fumes, asbestos, etc.)

• Construction or machinery-related accidents

• Hearing or vision loss caused by workplace conditions

Even seemingly minor injuries can develop into serious issues over time, which is why filing a claim promptly is so important.

How the Claims Process Works

Filing for workers’ compensation usually involves these steps:

1. Report the compensable injury to your employer as soon as possible.

2. Seek medical attention—often from an approved provider within the workers’ comp network.

3. Submit a claim form provided by your employer or the insurance carrier.

4. Wait for claim review and approval, which determines what benefits you’ll receive.

5. Receive benefits such as medical coverage, wage replacement, or disability compensation.

Delays or mistakes in reporting can affect your ability to collect benefits, so timely action is critical.

When to Consider Hiring a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Although many claims are straightforward, some cases become complicated—especially if an employer disputes the injury, delays payment, or denies benefits. An attorney can assist when:

• Your claim has been denied.

• You believe you’re not receiving the full benefits you’re entitled to.

• Your injury has left you with long-term or permanent disability.

• You’ve experienced retaliation at work for filing a claim.

Legal guidance ensures your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you need to move forward.