Being hurt at work can feel like a sudden setback that disrupts every part of your routine, from your paycheck to your basic mobility. Rather than struggling alone, you are likely to find that talking to a lawyer who specializes in work-related injuries is a relief. They can answer many of the questions you have, such as how to file a claim or what kind of evidence is needed. This allows you to focus more on healing instead of battling insurance adjusters and filing complicated forms on your own. Contact the work injury attorneys at Grey Law to schedule a free consultation with a Riverside work injury attorney.
Why Hire Our Work Injury Attorneys in Riverside
When you’ve been hurt on the job, you need someone who understands the hardships you’re facing and knows how to tackle them. Our team could be the right choice for the following reasons:
- We’ve spent decades building strategies that maximize financial recovery, which has helped us secure millions for our clients.
- From start to finish, we plan each case for trial, increasing the likelihood of a fair settlement long before you see a courtroom.
- We charge no fees unless you win, so you’re not adding financial strain on top of your injury. Since we don’t get paid unless you do, you can be certain that we’re all fighting for the same goal.
Let us help you during this difficult time. Contact our work injury lawyers in Riverside today to schedule a free consultation.
How An Attorney Can Help With Your Work Injury Claim
Dealing with a workplace accident can quickly get confusing, and that’s where an attorney comes in. Below are some of the ways they can assist:
- They gather work records, medical reports, and any other relevant materials required to build a strong case for compensation.
- They clarify the compensation process for you, explaining which benefits apply to your situation and ensuring you meet deadlines. They’ll help you determine if you’re able to file a workers’ compensation claim, a personal injury lawsuit, or both.
- They will calculate the compensation you’re entitled to so you don’t accidentally leave money on the table.
The best way to make sure you get what you’re entitled to is to reach out to a work injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Injured On The Job – Workers’ Comp or Personal Injury Lawsuit?
When you’re injured at work, the path to compensation can involve workers’ compensation, a personal injury claim, or even both, depending on the situation. Understanding which option fits your scenario can make a big difference in how quickly you recover your losses.
Workers’ Compensation
Most on-the-job injuries are handled through workers’ comp, a no-fault system that covers medical costs and part of your lost wages if you can’t return to work. This method usually applies no matter who is to blame. In return for these benefits, you generally give up the right to sue your employer. When the accident clearly took place within your normal work duties, workers’ comp is typically your main source of relief.
Personal Injury Claims
If someone outside your company caused the accident – such as a contractor or the manufacturer of defective equipment – you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against that party. In these cases, you need to prove the other side acted negligently. Unlike workers’ comp, a successful personal injury claim might allow you to collect damages for physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other expenses not covered by standard workers’ comp benefits.
Talk to a Riverside work injury attorney if you think your injury might involve a third party, or if you’re uncertain about the best way to move forward.
Injured Due To Negligence By Your Employer?
Call Our Work Injury Attorneys Today
Exceptions to Workers’ Comp Eligibility
Sometimes, workers’ compensation does not apply, even if you’re injured on the job. Below are a few situations where you might not be entitled to receive benefits.
Fighting or Horseplay
Getting into fights at work can disqualify you from benefits if you’re hurt because of your own disruptive behavior. The same can go for practical jokes or horseplay that leads to injuries. If you’re found to be an instigator, workers’ compensation may not cover your medical bills.
Being Under the Influence
If you were intoxicated or using drugs on the job, your claim could be denied. Most states allow employers or insurers to reduce or outright reject benefits if tests show you were under the influence when the accident happened.
Outside Your Scope of Work
Workers’ comp typically covers tasks that fall within your normal job responsibilities. If you veer too far outside those duties or decide to handle personal errands on company time, you might lose your eligibility if something goes wrong.
Intentional Injuries or Fraud
Injuries that you purposely inflict on yourself to collect benefits are never covered. Similarly, lying or exaggerating your injury in hopes of receiving higher payouts can lead to a denied claim and even legal consequences.
Commuting To and From Work
In most situations, injuries that happen while you’re driving to or from your job aren’t covered by workers’ compensation. The reasoning is that commuting is considered personal time, not part of your work duties. However, if your job specifically requires travel – such as making deliveries or driving between work sites – then workers’ comp would apply.
If you have concerns about your eligibility, it’s a good idea to consult with a lawyer who understands California workers’ comp laws so they can help you navigate the claims process.
Contact Our Riverside Work Injury Attorneys Today
Recovering from a work-related injury involves more than just healing physically – it can also mean trying to regain financial stability and peace of mind. Working with a knowledgeable attorney keeps you informed about important deadlines and claim requirements. Having legal support can save you from common pitfalls and ensure you make decisions that are in your best interest. Let us help you. Contact Grey Law to schedule a free consultation with a Riverside work injury attorney.