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 need to know about getting medical care after an on-the-job injury in California.
Know Your Rights: Get Medical Attention as Soon as Possible
Were you hurt on the job in Fresno, California? If so, it is imperative that you get yourself to a qualified physician as soon as possible. Nothing should come prior to your health and well-being. Here are two key things to remember:
- You have the right to receive immediate medical care, including leaving work for the necessary care; and
- You need to see a doctor to be able to pursue the full and fair workers’ comp benefits—including wage loss benefits—that you deserve.
Your Workers’ Comp Insurer Should Immediately Authorize at Least $10,000 in Coverage
As you are probably already aware, it takes time to process a workers’ compensation claim. This can be stressful. Injured workers need immediate care. The good news is that California law provides some very important protections to people hurt on the job. Your initial $10,000 worth of workers’ compensation medical coverage should be approved by your insurer or claims administrator without delay. State law says that this coverage must be authorized within 24 hours of the submission of your workers’ comp claim.
The Standard for Coverage: Reasonable Required to Relieve and Cure
Medical care is expensive. Many injured workers require far more than $10,000 in medical coverage after a job-related injury or occupational disease. In California, workers’ comp insurance covers the full extent of medical care that you “need” after an accident. How does one determine if care is needed? The legal standard is as follows: Workers’ comp insurance in California covers all medical treatment that is reasonably necessary to relieve and cure an injured employee.
Workers’ Comp Disputes Over Medical Treatment are Common
If you are hurt on the job in Fresno, you could end up locked in a dispute over workers’ comp and medical coverage. Please know: Neither the insurance company nor the claims administrator nor your employer gets to unilaterally make the financial decision on your medical benefits. You may need to be evaluated by an independent doctor what care/treatment is needed. An experienced Fresno, CA workers’ comp lawyer can help you navigate a complex legal dispute.
Consult With Our Fresno, CA Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
Joseph C. Yrulegui is an experienced, effective workers’ compensation lawyer. If you have any specific questions or concerns about getting the proper medical care after a work-related injury, we are more than ready to help. Contact us now for immediate help. We provide workers’ comp services in Fresno, Fresno County, and all around the San Joaquin Valley.