When you suffer an injury while performing your duties at work, it’s crucial to understand that you are not left without recourse. Workers’ compensation is a system specifically designed to support employees who have been injured on the job, providing them with the necessary resources to recover and, when possible, return to work. Pursuing a workers’ compensation claim can be the key to securing the compensation you need to address your injuries and the impacts they have on your life.
For those dealing with severe injuries, the complexity of workers’ compensation claims can be daunting. This is where the expertise of a seasoned attorney becomes invaluable. A specialized workers’ compensation attorney can offer comprehensive support throughout the claim process. From strategizing your case and gathering critical evidence to support your claim, to managing all the relevant deadlines and representing you in any necessary hearings before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board, a legal expert can ensure that your claim remains on the right track.
How we can help
Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases
Asbestos-related workers' compensation claims present unique challenges for individuals exposed to asbestos in the workplace, often decades before symptoms develop. Diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis, caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, can lead to severe health problems, extensive medical costs, and a significant impact on a worker's ability to perform their job or enjoy retirement. While workers' compensation may cover asbestos-related illnesses, proving a direct link between workplace exposure and the diagnosis can be a complex process due to the latency period of these diseases. If you believe your illness is related to asbestos exposure at work, it is crucial to document the details of your work history, including locations, tasks, and potential exposure sources. If still employed, reporting your diagnosis to your employer promptly and seeking medical and legal advice are critical first steps. Additionally, it’s important to also consider filing a civil lawsuit against product manufacturers and suppliers, and filing claims with any asbestos trust funds set up to compensate victims, as they can provide valuable financial support.
Artificial Stone Silicosis
Artificial stone silicosis workers' compensation claims involve specific challenges for individuals exposed to respirable crystalline silica while fabricating and installing engineered stone countertops. Unlike traditional silicosis, which may take years to develop, artificial stone silicosis can occur after just months of exposure due to the high volume of nano-sized silica particles in these materials. This aggressive lung disease results from inhaling silica dust during tasks like cutting, grinding, and polishing. Symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chronic cough, and fatigue, can severely impact a worker’s ability to continue their trade. Workers' compensation may provide coverage, but proving workplace exposure as the cause can be complex. It’s important to maintain detailed records of your work activities and any protective measures (or lack thereof) in place. Seeking medical and legal advice early on is essential for building a strong case and ensuring you receive compensation to cover medical costs, lost wages, and long-term care needs.
Job Accidents and Repetitive Injuries
Job accidents and repetitive work injuries can significantly impact a worker’s health, income, and quality of life. These incidents often result from unsafe workplace conditions, inadequate training, or the physical strain of repetitive tasks. Workers' compensation provides a lifeline for employees by covering medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
Navigating the workers' comp claims process can be complex, with challenges such as denied claims or insufficient benefits. We can make a critical difference, guiding injured workers through the legal process, ensuring all necessary documentation is complete, and advocating for maximum compensation. Whether it’s appealing a denied claim or pursuing additional benefits, our workers' comp legal team protects workers' rights and ensures they receive the financial support needed to recover and move forward.
Long Haul COVID
Long Haul COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), presents unique challenges for workers who contracted COVID-19 in the workplace and continue to suffer long-term symptoms. These symptoms—ranging from chronic fatigue and respiratory issues to neurological impairments—can hinder an individual’s ability to work and lead to significant medical expenses. Workers' compensation may cover these cases, but proving the link between workplace exposure and Long Haul COVID can be complex. If you suspect you have contracted COVID-19 at work, the first step is to get tested and obtain a copy of the test result. You must also report the injury to your employer in writing (via e-mail or text) and keep a record of your conversations with your employer. Please gather as much information as possible on how your work exposed you to COVID-19, specially if your job does not require you working with the public.
At Brayton Purcell LLP, we understand the intricacies of these claims and are dedicated to helping workers navigate the process. Our experienced attorneys will assist in gathering medical evidence, establishing workplace causation, and advocating for fair compensation to cover medical costs, lost wages, and ongoing care. There are presumptions for workers who contracted COVID-19 before January 1, 2024, so please do not delay in contacting us if you are experiencing Long Haul COVID symptoms. If you’re struggling with Long Haul COVID after workplace exposure, let us fight for your rights and ensure you receive the support you deserve.
Workers’ Compensation and Occupational Injury Claims
Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program designed to provide financial and medical benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Whether it’s a sudden workplace accident or a condition that develops over time, such as repetitive strain injuries or occupational diseases, workers' compensation ensures that injured employees can focus on recovery without the burden of overwhelming medical bills or lost wages. Benefits often include coverage for medical treatment, temporary and permanent disability payments, and rehabilitation services.
Occupational workers’ compensation specifically addresses illnesses or injuries caused by conditions inherent to a particular job or work environment. This can include exposure to toxic substances like asbestos, long-term repetitive motion injuries, or occupational diseases such as mesothelioma, carpal tunnel syndrome, or respiratory issues. These claims often require detailed documentation to link the injury or illness directly to the work environment, making the claims process more complex. At Brayton Purcell LLP, we specialize in helping injured workers navigate the complexities of workers' compensation claims. Our experienced attorneys fight for fair benefits, ensuring that clients receive the support they deserve for medical expenses, lost income, and future care needs. If you’ve been injured or diagnosed with an occupational illness, contact us to protect your rights and secure the compensation you need.
Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF)
The Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF) is a vital resource for workers who suffer a work-related injury that exacerbates a pre-existing condition or disability or who has sustained multiple work-related injuries throughout his life. Established to provide financial support in the form of a life pension to these individuals, the SIBTF offers compensation beyond what standard workers' compensation benefits cover, helping to address the cumulative impact of multiple injuries or disabilities, To qualify, individuals must demonstrate that their pre-existing condition was labor disabling, that the subsequent injury caused 35% permanent disability or more, and that their combined impairments result in a greater level disability of 70% or higher. Navigating the application process can be complex, as it requires extensive documentation, medical evaluations, and legal expertise. At Brayton Purcell LLP, we specialize in helping injured workers access SIBTF benefits by handling the intricacies of the claims process, gathering the necessary evidence, and advocating for maximum compensation. Let us assist you in securing the benefits you deserve to rebuild your financial stability and move forward with confidence.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Benefits
In states like California, the law mandates employers to provide workers’ compensation benefits to employees who sustain injuries while on the job. These benefits serve as a safety net, encompassing a range of support measures:
- Medical Care: Coverage for all necessary medical treatment related to your work injury, ensuring you receive the care you need for recovery.
- Temporary Disability Benefits: Compensation for lost wages if your injury prevents you from performing your usual job duties during the recovery period.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: If your injuries result in lasting limitations that affect your ability to work, you may be eligible for payments that acknowledge these long-term impacts.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: For those who cannot return to their previous employment due to their injuries, vocational rehabilitation services may be offered to help in finding new employment or retraining for a different position.
- Death Benefits: In the unfortunate event of a worker’s death due to a job-related injury or illness, dependents, including certain family members and good-faith members of the household, may be entitled to compensation.
The Role of a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging, especially when you’re recovering from an injury. Issues such as dissatisfaction with the medical care provided by your employer’s designated physician, or difficulties in securing the timely payment of benefits, can significantly complicate your situation. This is where a workers’ compensation attorney can make a significant difference. A dedicated legal team will focus on maximizing your benefits and ensuring you receive the medical care you need.
At Brayton Purcell LLP, our extensive experience in managing workers’ compensation claims stands us apart. Our expertise covers a broad spectrum of work-related injuries, including those resulting from asbestos exposure, silica exposure, beryllium exposure, construction accidents, and repetitive stress injuries. We possess a deep understanding of the complexities associated with asbestos-related and silica-related illnesses and are adept at exploring all potential avenues beyond just workers’ compensation claims to ensure you receive the full spectrum of entitlements available to you.
If you’ve suffered an employment-related injury, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and the benefits you may be entitled to. Brayton Purcell LLP is committed to providing you with the information and guidance you need to navigate this challenging time. If you have an employment-related injury, please feel free to contact Brayton Purcell LLP today to learn more about your legal rights.
