I Am an Independent Contractor in California: Can I File for Workers’ Comp Benefits if Injured While at Work?

Employers in California and throughout the United States are increasingly relying on the contributions of independent contractors. You may be wondering: Can I file for workers’ comp benefits if I am hurt while working as an independent contractor? The short answer is “no”—independent contractors are not covered by workers’ comp. However, there are key qualifiers […]

I Am an Independent Contractor in California: Can I File for Workers’ Comp Benefits if Injured While at Work? Read More »

How are Permanent Disability (PD) Benefits Determined in a California Workers’ Comp Claim in California?

Were you or a loved one seriously injured on the job in California? You may be entitled to permanent disability or PD benefits. These are a form of workers’ comp benefits that are reserved for people who have an injury or impairment that is so severe that a full recovery is not reasonably expected even

How are Permanent Disability (PD) Benefits Determined in a California Workers’ Comp Claim in California? Read More »

How Common are Back Injuries at Work?

Did you or your family member sustain a back injury while on the job? You are not alone. Back injuries are among the most common workplace ailments—they account for nearly 20%of all work-related impairments. You have the right to file for workers’ comp for a back injury. In this article, our Fresno workerscompensation attorney provides an […]

How Common are Back Injuries at Work? Read More »

What Form Do I Use to Start the Worker’ Comp Claims Process in California?

Hurt on the job in Fresno, Fresno County, or elsewhere in the surrounding region in Central California? You have the right to file for workers’ comp benefits. This raises an important question: What form do you need to fill out to file for workers’ comp in California? The short answer is that the firm is referred to

What Form Do I Use to Start the Worker’ Comp Claims Process in California? Read More »

What is a Primary Treating Physician in a Workers’ Compensation Claim in California?

Were you hurt on the job in California? You have the right to seek immediate medical care from a qualified doctor. Your primary treating physician will play a key role in care. Indeed, it is this medical professional who is in charge of ensuring that you receive the proper care and that your treatment is

What is a Primary Treating Physician in a Workers’ Compensation Claim in California? Read More »

California Will Teach High School Students About Workers’ Rights, Including Workplace Safety

According to a report from The Hustle, California legislators have passed a new law requiring all high schools to teach students about workers’ rights. Workplace safety is a big part of the new standards. Here, our Fresno workerscompensation attorney provides a more detailed overview of the new law and explains the basic workers’ comp rights that employees […]

California Will Teach High School Students About Workers’ Rights, Including Workplace Safety Read More »

Hurt on the Job in California? Four Key Things to Know About Third-Party Liability Claims

In California, your employer has a duty to provide no-fault workerscompensation coverage. You can obtain workers’ comp benefits without proving that your employer was “at fault” for your accident. However, you cannot file a personal injury claim against your employer for a job-related accident. That being said, you can sue a negligent third party,

Hurt on the Job in California? Four Key Things to Know About Third-Party Liability Claims Read More »

Countertop Workers in Southern California Developed Serious Illnesses

According to a report from the Los Angeles Times, dozens of workers who cut countertops in Southern California have developed a severe, incurable disease called silicosis. Silicosis is a progressive lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust, leading to inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue and resulting in symptoms such as shortness of breath, cough, […]

Countertop Workers in Southern California Developed Serious Illnesses Read More »

California Appeals Court Ruling Limits WCAB Appeal to Delay Workers’ Comp Decisions

According to a report from Bloomberg Law, a California appeals court has issued an opinion that could, potentially, reduce workers’ comp delays for some claimants. On August 1, 2023, the California Second District Court of Appeal ruled in favor of an injured worker in the case of Earley v. Workers’ Comp. Appeals Bd. Here, our Fresno work injury lawyer provides an […]

California Appeals Court Ruling Limits WCAB Appeal to Delay Workers’ Comp Decisions Read More »

Worker Killed in Accident at Manufacturing Facility in Northern California 

According to a report from Fox 40, a worker was killed in an accident at a manufacturing facility in Northern California. The tragic incident occurred at a facility operated by Hogan Mfg., Inc. in San Joaquin County. Workplace safety remains a serious concern in California. Here, our Fresno workers’ comp lawyer explains what we know about this case […]

Worker Killed in Accident at Manufacturing Facility in Northern California  Read More »

Report: Extreme Heat Injuries More than 20,000 Workers Per Year in California

As reported by Reuters, July of 2023 has been the world’s hottest year in recorded history. California has not been spared—many parts of our state have experienced serious heat waves this summer. Extreme temperatures pose a significant safety hazard to outdoor workers. According to reporting from The Desert Sun, more than 20,000 people suffer heat-related injuries and […]

Report: Extreme Heat Injuries More than 20,000 Workers Per Year in California Read More »

Settling a Workers’ Comp Claim in California? Know What Options are Available

The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) reports that more than 300,000 people miss time at work for a job-related injury or illness in the state each year. If you suffered a major workplace injury, you may be in a position where you are considering the settlement of your claim. There are two different types of workers

Settling a Workers’ Comp Claim in California? Know What Options are Available Read More »

Cal/OSHA Cites Two Employers for Workplace Violence That Killed Seven

On June 26, 2023, Cal/OSHA cited two San Mateo County employers—Terra Garden, Inc. and Concord Farms Inc.—for dozens of collective workplace safety violations related to a horrific incident of workplace violence that took the lives of seven agricultural workers earlier this year. In this article, our Fresno workerscompensation attorney provides a more detailed overview of the Cal/OSHA citation […]

Cal/OSHA Cites Two Employers for Workplace Violence That Killed Seven Read More »

Going Back to Work after an Accident in California: What Happens if My Employer Assigns Me to a Job Duty I Cannot Perform?

California law (Labor Code § 3700) mandates that businesses and nonprofit organizations must prove workerscompensation coverage to employees. Suffer a physical injury on the job? You can file for benefits and take time to recover from your injuries. If you are like most workers, you will probably want to get back on the job

Going Back to Work after an Accident in California: What Happens if My Employer Assigns Me to a Job Duty I Cannot Perform? Read More »

Worker Killed on the Job in Fresno County (Electrocution)

According to a report from ABC 30, a man was killed on the job in a tragic workplace accident in Fresno County. He was electrocuted while working near utility lines on a raised platform. Here, our Fresno workerscompensation attorneyexplains what we know about this case and discusses the risks associated with workplace electrocutions.  Workplace Electrocution Incident […]

Worker Killed on the Job in Fresno County (Electrocution) Read More »

OSHA: Amazon Failed to Provide Adequate Medical Care to Injured Workers 

According to a report from Insurance Journal, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) alleges that Amazon has failed to provide adequate medical care to injured workers. Federal regulators contend that at least 10 employees at an Amazon fulfillment center in New York State did not receive timely medical attention. In this article, our Fresno workerscompensation

OSHA: Amazon Failed to Provide Adequate Medical Care to Injured Workers  Read More »

With Summer Fast-Approaching, Cal/OSHA Issues Reminder for Employers With Outdoor Workers

Summer is fast approaching. With temperatures often soaring into the triple digits all across the state, proper safety precautions are a must. Hot weather can be dangerous weather—especially for people who work outside. On April 26, 2023, Cal/OSHA issued official state guidance reminding businesses and organizations to take the proper safety measures to protect their outdoor employees

With Summer Fast-Approaching, Cal/OSHA Issues Reminder for Employers With Outdoor Workers Read More »

California is a No-Fault Workers’ Comp Insurance State (But There are Some Exceptions)

California law (Labor Code § 3700) is clear: Employers must obtain workers’ comp insurance coverage for their employees. Workers’ comp insurance is no-fault—an employee does not need to prove negligence or any other type of misconduct by their employer to recover benefits. As long as the accident happened while the employee was working, they can

California is a No-Fault Workers’ Comp Insurance State (But There are Some Exceptions) Read More »

Cal/OSHA Cites Company for Workplace Safety Violations—Employees Exposed to Toxic Chemicals in the Workplace

On March 21st, 2023, the State of California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) announced sanctions against Parter Medical Products, Inc., a Carson-based manufacturer. The employer was cited for a willful violation, including exposing employees to toxic chemicals in the workplace. Here, our Fresno workerscompensation lawyer highlights the most important things to know about the Cal/OSHA citations and explains

Cal/OSHA Cites Company for Workplace Safety Violations—Employees Exposed to Toxic Chemicals in the Workplace Read More »

Report: Despite State Law, Firefighters in California Struggle to Get Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Cancer 

According to a report from Mother Jones, many firefighters who have developed cancer are struggling to get workerscompensation benefits. This is happening in California, despite the fact that our state has a specific statute in place that is designed to make it easier for firefighters to obtain workerscompensation benefits for cancer and some other […]

Report: Despite State Law, Firefighters in California Struggle to Get Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Cancer  Read More »

Worker Granted Reconsideration By California’s Workers’ Comp Appeals Board

According to a report from Human Resources Director (HRD), a California carpet installer has been granted reconsideration by the California WorkersCompensation Appeals Board (WCAB). In Ruiz vs. SK Floor Covering and State Compensation Insurance Fund, a court had initially dismissed the attempt by the injured worker (Mr. Ruiz) to reopen the workers’ comp claim. However, on […]

Worker Granted Reconsideration By California’s Workers’ Comp Appeals Board Read More »

Returning to Work After an Accident in Fresno: The Three Main Paths and Your Rights as a Worker 

Accidents happen in the workplace. The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) reports that 161,860 workers missed time on the job due to work-related injuries or illnesses in 2020 alone. Workerscompensation insurance coverage helps to ensure that people who were hurt on the job have the financial resources that they need to pay for medical care […]

Returning to Work After an Accident in Fresno: The Three Main Paths and Your Rights as a Worker  Read More »

What Happens if Your Workers’ Comp Disability Payment is Late?

A serious work-related injury or illness can put an incredible financial strain on a family. Workers’ comp helps to alleviate the burden. People need their full and fair workerscompensation benefits without any unjustified delay. Getting approved for workers’ comp can bring a great sense of relief. Disability payments for workers’ comp are generally paid

What Happens if Your Workers’ Comp Disability Payment is Late? Read More »

OSHA Cites Amazon for Warehouse Safety Violations and Failure to Report Work Injuries 

According to reporting from ABC30 News – KFSN Fresno, Amazon—one of California’s largest employers—has been cited for serious workplace safety violations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). On December 16th, 2022, OSHA announced 14 different safety violations by Amazon related to its warehouses. The investigation is still ongoing. Here, our Fresno workers’ comp attorney discusses the workplace safety

OSHA Cites Amazon for Warehouse Safety Violations and Failure to Report Work Injuries  Read More »

Utilization Review (UR): What Injured Workers in California Need to Know About Their Right to Appeal

Were you injured on the job in Fresno? If so, it is absolutely crucial that you get all of the medical treatment that you need—for emergency treatment to rehabilitative care. The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) explains the law clearly: an injured worker is “entitled to reasonable medical treatment to cure or relieve work-related injuries and

Utilization Review (UR): What Injured Workers in California Need to Know About Their Right to Appeal Read More »

Workers’ Comp Benefits are Set to Increase in California in 2023

Inflation has become a major policy concern in the United States and around the world. As reported by PBS, the annual inflation rate hit a 40-year high earlier this year. Workerscompensation benefits are adjusted annually to account for changes in the cost of living. A significant increase in workers’ comp benefits will take effect in

Workers’ Comp Benefits are Set to Increase in California in 2023 Read More »

Injured California Worker Brings Successful Serious and Willful Misconduct Claim

Under California law, a workerscompensation claim is generally the sole legal remedy that an injured worker has against their own employer. However, there is a key exception for cases in which an employee was harmed because of “serious and willful” misconduct by the employer. Through this type of claim, injured workers may be entitled

Injured California Worker Brings Successful Serious and Willful Misconduct Claim Read More »

How Can a Fresno Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me After a Workplace Accident?

Were you hurt on the job in the San Joaquin Valley region of California? It is imperative that you have access to the financial compensation that you need to cover medical costs, pay bills, and support your family.  A workers’ comp lawyer can make the difference—helping you navigate the process, get justice, and secure full and […]

How Can a Fresno Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me After a Workplace Accident? Read More »

Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) Grants Injured Painter Workers’ Comp Benefits 

According to a report from HRD California, a painter has been awarded workerscompensation benefits after initially being denied by an employer. The ruling demonstrates that injured workers who have had their benefits denied are not out of options. You have the right to appeal a workerscompensation denial in California. In this blog post, our Fresno

Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) Grants Injured Painter Workers’ Comp Benefits  Read More »

How Do You Qualify for Permanent Disability Benefits for a Work Injury in California?

A work injury can cause severe disruption to a person’s life. Workerscompensation insurance exists as a form of much-needed financial protection. Injured workers in California can seek medical coverage and wage replacement benefits to aid with their physical and mental recovery. Sadly, some work-related accidents are so severe that employees are left with permanent […]

How Do You Qualify for Permanent Disability Benefits for a Work Injury in California? Read More »

How Do You Qualify for Permanent Disability Benefits for a Work Injury in California?

A work injury can cause severe disruption to a person’s life. Workerscompensation insurance exists as a form of much-needed financial protection. Injured workers in California can seek medical coverage and wage replacement benefits to aid with their physical and mental recovery. Sadly, some work-related accidents are so severe that employees are left with permanent

How Do You Qualify for Permanent Disability Benefits for a Work Injury in California? Read More »

Are Seasonal Employees Covered By Workers’ Compensation Insurance in California?

Seasonal employment is a huge part of the American economy. A wide range of industries—from retail to agriculture to tourism—rely on the contributions of seasonal workers. The United States Department of Labor (DOL) emphasizes that the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) applies to seasonal workers. You may be wondering: Are seasonal workers covered by workerscompensation? In California, the

Are Seasonal Employees Covered By Workers’ Compensation Insurance in California? Read More »

Cal/OSHA Published Official Guidance to Protect Workers From Monkeypox Exposure 

In May of 2022, the first documented case of Monkeypox associated with the recent global outbreak was reported in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has declared Monkeypox a public health emergency. As of October 1st, approximately 5,000 cases of Monkeypox have been confirmed in California.   On September 15th, 2022, Cal/OSHA published

Cal/OSHA Published Official Guidance to Protect Workers From Monkeypox Exposure  Read More »

California Workers’ Comp and Temporary Disability Benefits: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Work injuries and illnesses remain a serious safety concern. According to data from the State of California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR), 645,409 first-reports-of-injury (FROIs) were filed in the state in 2020 alone. Employees in California are protected by workerscompensation insurance coverage. If you are forced to miss time at work due to a job-related […]

California Workers’ Comp and Temporary Disability Benefits: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Read More »

Amazon Drawing Major Scrutiny After a Series of Warehouse Worker Deaths 

Amazon is one of the largest employers in the United States, including in the San Joaquin Valley of California. Over the last few years, the company has drawn major scrutiny regarding workplace safety—especially in its warehouses. According to a report from CNET, Amazon is facing another round of inquiries following a series of worker fatalities in

Amazon Drawing Major Scrutiny After a Series of Warehouse Worker Deaths  Read More »

WCAB Rules No Need to Authenticate Documents Without Genuine Question

Recently, the California WorkersCompensation Appeals Board (WCAB) ruled in favor of an employee in the case of Ifonia Gelin, Applicant v. Bear Flag Marketing  Corporation, and Pegasus, Administered by Corvel  Corporation. The Board determined that California workers’ comp laws do not require authentication of the documents provided by the parties unless there is a genuine dispute regarding authenticity.

WCAB Rules No Need to Authenticate Documents Without Genuine Question Read More »

I Was Hurt On the Job and Found Out My Employer is Uninsured: What are My Options?

Under California Labor Code § 3700, your employer has a legal responsibility to ensure that you are covered by no-fault workers’ comp insurance. Workerscompensation coverage will protect you in the unfortunate event that you are injured. This raises an important question: What do you do if you find out that your employer does not have workers

I Was Hurt On the Job and Found Out My Employer is Uninsured: What are My Options? Read More »

COVID-19 Remains a Serious Issue in California Workplaces: Claims are on the Rise

According to a report from Business Insurance, workerscompensation claims for COVID-19 are once again on the rise in California. The California WorkersCompensation Institute (CWCI) reports that COVID-19 workers’ comp claim increased by more than 500% over a two-month period this spring. More than 6,000 workers filed for COVID-19 workers’ comp benefits in the state

COVID-19 Remains a Serious Issue in California Workplaces: Claims are on the Rise Read More »

Know Your Rights: Seven Key Things to Know About Workers’ Comp in California 

Were you hurt while on the job in Fresno? If so, it is crucial that you know how to navigate the process so that you can protect your health, mental well-being, and your financial interests. A workers’ comp claim can be complicated. Here, our Fresno workers’ comp attorney explains seven things that you should understand about workers

Know Your Rights: Seven Key Things to Know About Workers’ Comp in California  Read More »

Offered a Light Duty Position by an Employer After a Work Injury? It Must Meet These Four Requirements

A work injury can result in a serious, long-term physical or mental impairment. In some cases, injured workers may not be ready to return to their previous position. An employer offers a worker a suitable “light duty” position. Light duty work is defined broadly as some form of adjusted work that a person can safely […]

Offered a Light Duty Position by an Employer After a Work Injury? It Must Meet These Four Requirements Read More »

Workers’ Compensation in California: What is a P&S Report?

Workplace accidents happen every day in California. Most work-related injuries are mild or moderate—with the proper treatment the injured employee is able to make a full recovery and return to their position. However, unfortunately, that is not always the case. There are thousands of workers who suffer permanent impairments in job-related accidents each year in

Workers’ Compensation in California: What is a P&S Report? Read More »

Everything You Need to Know About Getting Medical Care After a Work Injury in California

Work injuries happen every day. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that work-related accidents and occupational diseases cause nearly 1.2 million people to miss time on-the-job each year. Workers’ comp insurance protects people. Through a workers’ comp claim, you can get no-fault benefits for your medical care. In this article, our Fresno work injury attorney explains everything you

Everything You Need to Know About Getting Medical Care After a Work Injury in California Read More »

Does Workers’ Compensation Insurance Cover Chiropractic Care in California?

Chiropractic care is a form of “alternative medicine” that is focused on the treatment of the musculoskeletal system. It is often used for back injuries and spinal cord injuries—though chiropractors can treat a wide range of other medical conditions as well. This raises an important question: Is a chiropractor covered by workers’ comp insurance in California? The

Does Workers’ Compensation Insurance Cover Chiropractic Care in California? Read More »

Workers’ Comp in California: Who Decides Which “Light or Modified Duty” Medical Restrictions are Appropriate?

State law requires employers to provide no-fault workers’ comp coverage (California Labor Code § 3700). Through a workers’ comp claim, an employer can get benefits to cover their medical care and support them during the time that they need to take off to recover from their injury or illness.  Most people want to get back

Workers’ Comp in California: Who Decides Which “Light or Modified Duty” Medical Restrictions are Appropriate? Read More »

Study Finds Amazon Workers Injured at Higher Rates Than Other Warehouse Workers

Amazon is the largest employer of warehouse workers in the United States. By some metrics, nearly one quarter of all people who work in a warehouse in the U.S. are employed by Amazon. The company is still expanding its footprint. Amazon is scheduled to open a massive new 855,000 square foot fulfillment center in Fresno

Study Finds Amazon Workers Injured at Higher Rates Than Other Warehouse Workers Read More »

Workplace Safety Reminder for the Summer: Outdoor Workers Must be Protected

On April 26th, 2022, the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) issued an official reminder that employers have a legal responsibility to protect outdoor workers from the risk posed by heal-related illnesses and exposure to harmful wildfire smoke. With the summer months fast approaching, employers must put the proper health and safety precautions in place. In this

Workplace Safety Reminder for the Summer: Outdoor Workers Must be Protected Read More »

Five Duties an Employer Owes to You After a Workplace Accident in California 

All workers in Fresno County are entitled to no-fault workers comp coverage under California Labor Code § 3700. If you sustained a work injury, you have the right to seek workers’ comp benefits for medical care and wage replacement. Beyond that, your employer owes you certain basic duties after an accident. In this article, you will find

Five Duties an Employer Owes to You After a Workplace Accident in California  Read More »

What is a Medical Provider Network (MPN) in California Workers’ Comp Claim?

Were you injured on the job in Fresno County? If so, you may have questions or concerns about who you should see for medical care. Can you choose your own doctor? Do you have to go to someone picked by your employer? The answers depend on several factors, including whether your employer is part of

What is a Medical Provider Network (MPN) in California Workers’ Comp Claim? Read More »

How Long Does it Take on Average to Get Workers’ Comp Benefits in California

Unfortunately, workplace injuries and accidents continue to happen far too frequently. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that 1.1 million workers take time off annually to recover from a job-related injury or occupational disease. Workerscompensation insurance exists to help ensure that employers have financial protection and security after an accident.  You may be wondering: How

How Long Does it Take on Average to Get Workers’ Comp Benefits in California Read More »

Nurses in California Push for More Comprehensive Workers’ Comp Rights

According to a report from Bloomberg Law, nurses are continuing to push for more comprehensive workerscompensation rights. With backing from top labor advocacy groups, the coalition of nurses wants legal rights that put them in the same position—eligible for a presumption of coverage for certain injuries and illnesses—that law enforcement officers and firefighters receive. In […]

Nurses in California Push for More Comprehensive Workers’ Comp Rights Read More »

Understanding the Two Types of Workers’ Compensation Settlements in California

California law requires all businesses and organizations that operate within the state to carry no-fault workerscompensation coverage (Labor Code § 3700). If you are hurt on the job in Fresno, you have the right to file a workers’ comp claim to seek medical coverage and wage loss benefits.  Following a serious workplace accident, your […]

Understanding the Two Types of Workers’ Compensation Settlements in California Read More »

California Work Safety Regulators Release COVID-19 Safety Guidance for School Employees

In January, the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus swept across California. There were nearly 140,000 COVID-19 cases confirmed statewide on January 21st—the highest daily amount during the entire course of the pandemic. However, the outbreak receded. On March 1st, there were fewer than 6,000 cases in California. Public health and safety policies are changing,

California Work Safety Regulators Release COVID-19 Safety Guidance for School Employees Read More »

What Medical Care is Covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance in California?

Work-related injuries and illnesses remain a major problem. According to data collected and analyzed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 2.7 million injuries and illnesses reported at private-industry workplaces in the United States in 2020 alone. While some accidents were relatively minor, many required employees to miss significant time on the job to

What Medical Care is Covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance in California? Read More »

I Was Fired After Filing for Workers’ Comp in California: What are My Rights? 

Each year, tens of thousands of workers are hurt on the job in California. If you were hurt on the job, you have the right to file for workers’ comp benefits. Your employer cannot retaliate against you for doing so. Your rights were violated if you were punished for filing for work injury benefits. In

I Was Fired After Filing for Workers’ Comp in California: What are My Rights?  Read More »

California State Agency Found Liable for “Serious and Wilful” Misconduct in Relation to Deadly Fresno Area Crash

According to reporting from The Fresno Bee, a California state agency has been found liable for ‘serious and wilful’ misconduct in relation to a tragic Fresno-area motor vehicle accident that killed four people. California Conservation Corps (CCC) reportedly ignored several major warning signs prior to the catastrophic wreck. In this blog post, our Fresno workerscompensation attorney provides

California State Agency Found Liable for “Serious and Wilful” Misconduct in Relation to Deadly Fresno Area Crash Read More »

Are Truck Drivers Covered by Workers’ Comp Insurance in California?

Trucking is a vital industry. More than three-quarters of the nation’s total freight volume is transported by large commercial trucks. Further, the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), reports that the trucking industry supports more than 700,000 jobs in California. Of course, as with any industry, accidents and injuries can happen.  This raises an important question: Are truckers

Are Truck Drivers Covered by Workers’ Comp Insurance in California? Read More »

Workers’ Comp Watch: California Court Rejects Employer’s ‘Exclusive Remedy’ Defense

On December 21st, 2021, the Second District Court of Appeal for the State of California rejected an employer’s “exclusive remedy” defense in COVID-19 exposure claim. In the case of See’s Candies, Inc. v. Superior Ct. of Cal., the appeals court determined that the “exclusivity” defense does not apply given the facts of the case. In this […]

Workers’ Comp Watch: California Court Rejects Employer’s ‘Exclusive Remedy’ Defense Read More »

Fresno County Store Owner Injured by Violent Shoplifter

According to a report from The Fresno Bee, a local store owner is dealing with serious injuries, including a broken wrist, after confronting a violent shoplifter. Jennifer Ward, the owner of the Crazy Squirrel Game Store in north Fresno, was struck by a “repeat offender” who tried to leave the store with hundreds of dollars in

Fresno County Store Owner Injured by Violent Shoplifter Read More »

An Overview of the Four Most Common Work injuries 

Workers are the lifeblood of the American economy. Every employee deserves safe and fair conditions on the job. Unfortunately, work-related injuries and illnesses remain a very serious public safety concern. According to data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 1.17 million workers were forced to miss time on the job for an injury

An Overview of the Four Most Common Work injuries  Read More »

What to Do if My Employer is Violating My Light-Duty Work Restrictions

A work injury can cause a serious disruption to your life. You may be forced to miss considerable time for care, treatment, and recovery. You may hit a point where you are ready to return to work, but you cannot perform all of the physically intensive tasks that you used to be able to do. […]

What to Do if My Employer is Violating My Light-Duty Work Restrictions Read More »

Five Things You Might Not Know About Workers’ Compensation Claims in California

The unfortunate reality is that workplace accidents remain a significant public safety concern in California and throughout the nation. Employees in our state are protected by workers’ comp insurance coverage. After a job-related accident, you can file for workerscompensation benefits.  There are plenty of myths and misconceptions out there about how exactly the workers

Five Things You Might Not Know About Workers’ Compensation Claims in California Read More »

Medical Care and Workers’ Compensation: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are you an employee in Fresno County? If so, you are entitled to workers’ comp that will provide benefits in the event that you are injured or made ill on the job. Under California Labor Code § 3700, it is mandatory for businesses and organizations to provide workers’ comp insurance to employees.  Among other things, workers

Medical Care and Workers’ Compensation: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Read More »

Catch the Omicron Variant at Your Job? What to Know About Workers’ Comp in California

On December 1st, 2021, the San Francisco Department of Health announced the confirmation of the first Omicron case in California. A variant of the COVID-19 virus, omicron poses some additional public health challenges. As explained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is more transmissible as it “speads more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2.” At

Catch the Omicron Variant at Your Job? What to Know About Workers’ Comp in California Read More »

Workplace Injuries in California: What is Doctor ‘Predesignation’?

Following a serious accident in the workplace, you need top quality medical care from a doctor you can trust. This raises an important question: Can you choose your own doctor after a work injury in California? The short answer is ‘it depends’—you can predesignate a personal physician in certain circumstances. In this article, our Fresno workerscompensation attorney explains

Workplace Injuries in California: What is Doctor ‘Predesignation’? Read More »

California Workers’ Comp: Your Guide to Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits

If you were hurt on the job in California, you are entitled to financial benefits. The primary purpose of workers’ comp is to ensure that an employee has access to the financial resources that they need to get past the accident and move forward. In some circumstances, an injured worker may be entitled to Supplemental

California Workers’ Comp: Your Guide to Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits Read More »

Three Tips to Help Keep Your Workers’ Compensation Claim on Track

Were you hurt on the job in Fresno County? You deserve compensation to cover medical costs and lost income. Pursuant to state law, businesses operating in Fresno Countyhave a legal responsibility to provide their employees with workers’ comp coverage (California Labor Code § 3700). Unfortunately, some people run into struggles within the workerscompensation claims

Three Tips to Help Keep Your Workers’ Compensation Claim on Track Read More »

California Regulators Issue New Wildfire Smoke Safety Guidelines for School Employees

Wildfires have long been a serious safety hazard in the Western United States, particularly in stretches of our region. Northern, Central, and Southern California are all affected by wildfires. The California Air Resources Board emphasizes that “the area burned by California wildfires each year has been increasing” over the last seven decades.  A large wildfire can impact

California Regulators Issue New Wildfire Smoke Safety Guidelines for School Employees Read More »

California Workers’ Comp Claims: Your Rights if Your Employer is Uninsured

Workers’ comp insurance provides much needed financial protection to people hurt at work. By law, your employer is required to pay for your workerscompensation insurance California Labor Code § 3700). Unfortunately, not all businesses and organizations in Fresno County comply with the law.  This raises an important question: What options do injured workers have if their

California Workers’ Comp Claims: Your Rights if Your Employer is Uninsured Read More »

California Fast Food Workers Planning Walk Out, Safety Remains a Problem in the Industry

According to a report from the Los Angeles Times, fast food workers throughout California are planning a “walk out” in protest of wages, benefits, and workplace safety standards. The labor protest is scheduled for November 9th, with rallies planned at Mcdonald’s locations around the region, including in Los Angeles, San Jose, Oakland, and Sacramento  Workplace safety

California Fast Food Workers Planning Walk Out, Safety Remains a Problem in the Industry Read More »

California Lawmakers Pass Amazon Bill in Response to Injury Rates in Warehouses

According to a report from National Public Radio (NPR), California lawmakers have passed first-in-the-nation legislation focused on improving workplace safety and working conditions in Amazon warehouses. The bill seeks to address the warehouse injury problem by giving employees additional power to challenge their conditions. In this blog post, our Fresno workerscompensation attorney explains the key things to […]

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An Overview of Workplace Violence and Workers’ Comp in California

Unfortunately, workplace violence is a serious public safety problem in our country. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that occupational violence 21,000 injuries and 450 fatalities each year. Violence in the workplace can occur in a wide range of different circumstances. It may be committed by intruders, customers, co-workers, or even managers.  You

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What Happens if I am Injured While Working at Home in California?

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, more employees are working from home—at least on a part-time basis. According to the California Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO), 40% of the state’s total workforce are employed in positions that could be done solely or partially remotely. As accidents can happen anywhere, the rise of work-from-home has created some […]

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Four Tips for Filing a Serious and Willful Misconduct Claim in California

All employers in Central California are required to follow applicable federal, state, and local workplace safety regulations. When an employer knowingly or recklessly violates safety standards and an employee injury occurs as a result, the business/organization could face liability under California Labor Code § 4553. This is the state’s “serious and willful misconduct” statute.  Through a

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Work-Related Car Accidents in California: Know Your Rights

Motor vehicle collisions are among the leading causes of serious injuries. The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that more than 275,000 people are hurt in crashes in the state annually. When a car accident is work-related, you have the right to file for workers’ comp benefits—in addition to pursuing any other available legal remedies. In this

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Four Reasons to Hire a Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Fresno

According to data collected and published by the California Department of Industrial Relations, approximately half a million workers are injured on the job in the state each year. Thankfully, most of these injuries are relatively minor. If a workers’ comp claim is required, an employee may even be able to handle all of the paperwork on

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Can I be Fired for Filing for Workers’ Compensation in California?

Similar to the vast majority of jurisdictions in the United States, California is an at-will employment state. In effect, this means an employer is allowed to terminate a worker for virtually any reason, including for no reason at all. However, employers cannot terminate workers for an illegal reason. 

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California Workers’ Comp: Who Decides if I am Ready to Return to Work?

Following a workplace accident, most people want to get healed up and back to the job as soon as possible. Of course, rushing back before you are physically ready to return to work could be a major mistake. You need to take the time that is necessary to make sure that you are healthy enough

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Report: Hotter Temperatures Mean More Work Injuries in California

According to a report cited by the Los Angeles Times, rising temperatures are expected to result in more work-related injuries in California. Alarmingly, the study also finds that heat-related workplace injuries and illnesses are underreported in the state’s current workerscompensation statistics. In this article, our Fresno workers’ comp attorney provides an overview of the study.  UCLA/Stanford Study: […]

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How Long Do You Have to Report a Work Injury in California?

State and federal regulations are in place to help ensure that workplaces are reasonably safe for employees. Nonetheless, accidents inevitably happen. If you were hurt on the job, it is imperative that you know your rights and responsibilities. Here, our Fresno workers’ comp attorney explains the most important things you should know about your duty to report

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Workers’ Compensation in California: What is a Mandatory Settlement Conference (MSC)?

Work injuries remain a serious issue in our state. According to the California Department of Industrial Relations, nearly 500,000 workers are hurt on the job annually. In California, an employee is entitled to no-fault workers’ comp insurance coverage. If you are hurt on the job, you can file for benefits, regardless of whether or not your […]

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Workers’ Comp in California: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Some work-related injuries developed gradually over time. Often referred to as repetitive stress injuries or repetitive trauma injuries, they happen because a worker puts consistent and repeated strain on their body. Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common types of work-related repetitive stress injuries reported in California. In this article, our Fresno workerscompensation […]

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What Injured Workers Should Know About ‘Serious and Willful’ Misconduct Claims in California

In California, people hurt on the job have a right to pursue benefits by bringing a workers’ comp claim. Workers’ comp is an exclusive legal remedy, meaning you are prevented from filing a personal injury lawsuit against your employer. However, under California Labor Code § 4553, injured employees may be additional to compensation if their accident

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California Workers’ Compensation and Third Party Liability Claims

An injured worker generally cannot file a lawsuit against their employer. Under California law (Labor Code Section § 3600), a workers’ comp claim is an injured employee’s “exclusive remedy” against their company or organization. In exchange, workers are entitled to no-fault benefits. They do not need to prove that their employer did anything wrong to get […]

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Can You Get Workers’ Comp Benefits for an Off-Site Injury in California?

The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) explains that “all California employers must provide workerscompensation benefits to their employees.” Workers’ comp insurance provides no-fault coverage to employees. If you are hurt on the job, you have the right to benefits regardless of whether or not your employer was to blame for the workplace accident.  This raises

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Are Independent Contractors Covered by Workers’ Compensation in California?

As explained by the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) “All California employers must provide workerscompensation benefits to their employees.” Of course, the key word in that sentence is “employees.” You may be wondering: Can an independent contractor file for workers’ comp benefits in California? In general, the answer is ‘no,’ but an employee who was improperly misclassified […]

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Be Careful About What You Share on Social Media When Your Workers’ Comp Claim is Open

Long gone are the days when social media was the province of teenagers. In April of 2021, the Pew Research Centerreleased results of a survey finding that 72% of people nationwide have at least one active social media account—and the fastest growing group of users is senior citizens. It makes sense, social media can be a

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Top Four Workers’ Comp Mistakes That You Need to Avoid

Workplace safety remains a serious issue in California. According to the state’s Department of Industrial Relations, around 500,000 employees are hurt at work each year. California’s workerscompensation insurance laws mandate that businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies must obtain no-fault workerscompensation insurance for their staff.  Unfortunately, getting a workers’ comp claim approved is not always

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California Workers’ Compensation Claims: What to Know About Cumulative Trauma Injuries

In California, employers are required to provide no-fault workers’ comp insurance benefits to their staff. A worker who is hurt on the job is entitled to get coverage for all reasonably necessary medical care and for partial wages. UnderCalifornia Labor Code section 3208.1, an injury may be specific or cumulative.  A cumulative injury is one […]

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Are California Workers’ Compensation Benefits Taxable?

The California Department of Industrial Relations reports that around half of a million workers are hurt on the job in the state annually. If you are injured at work, you may be entitled to workers’ comp to cover medical care and lost income. This raises an important question: Do you have to pay taxes on workerscompensation benefits […]

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Amazon Letter to Shareholders: Musculoskeletal Disorders are Serious Problem in Warehouses

Amazon is one of the largest employers in our state. Earlier this year, Geekwire reported that the company has 153,000 employees in California alone. A significant share of Amazon employees work in the warehouse. Notably, in the most recent Letter to Shareholders, CEO Jeff Bezos stated that the company is putting more emphasis on workplace safety issues.  Specifically,

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California Senate Rejects Workers’ Comp Reform Proposal

On June 4th, 2021, The Press Democrat reported that the California State Senate has rejected a bill that would create long-term reforms to the workerscompensation insurance system that would have made it easier for some frontline health care employees to qualify for benefits. In this article, our California workerscompensation attorney proposed an overview of the reform proposal […]

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An Overview of Workers’ Compensation Benefits in California

Workers’ comp insurance coverage provides much needed financial protection to people hurt on the job. Benefits are paid out to help support injured workers. As explained by the California Department of Industrial Relations, the benefits available through the program are primarily designed to help workers get the “medical treatment you need to recover from your work

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An Overview of Work Comp Liens and Subrogation in California

In California, businesses and organizations are required to provide no-fault workers’ comp coverage to their employees. When someone gets hurt on the job, they can claim benefits. While workers’ comp is usually the sole and exclusive remedy that an employee has against an employer, an injured worker may file a lawsuit directly against a negligent

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An Overview Labor Code 4850 Benefits

Under California Labor Code § 4800, certain frontline workers—including police officers, firefighters, and other public safety personnel—are entitled to additional legal protection in the event that they suffer a job-related injury. Referred both as “Labor Code Section 4850 benefits” and “Labor Code Section 4850 Time,” this special provision allows qualifying employees to receive their full salary […]

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Affirmative Workers’ Comp Defense: California Law and Intoxicated Employees

Workerscompensation insurance provides no-fault benefits to people who were injured while on the job. An employer can be held responsible for a workplace injury even if the accident was not their fault. That being said, liability is not automatic. There are several affirmative defenses that employers and insurers can raise to deny coverage.  An

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When Should I Hire a Workers’ Comp Defense Lawyer in California?

Workerscompensation insurance provides medical coverage and wage loss benefits to employees who were hurt on the job. As emphasized by the California Department of Industrial Relations, “employers are required by law to have workerscompensation insurance.”  For employers and insurers, navigating the workers’ comp claims process can be complicated. It is not uncommon to run

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