There are thousands of employers in San Bernardino, from an Amazon Fulfilment Center to the county school district, major chains, family-owned restaurants, and everything in between. One thing that most of these employers have in common is the requirement to provide workers’ compensation for their employees. This type of insurance policy covers medical treatment and wage replacement benefits for those who have been injured in a workplace accident.
Many injured workers are unsure what to do after a workplace accident in San Bernardino. Here is a look at two basic steps to start the claims process. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney could help you understand this process in greater detail.
Seek Medical Treatment
Knowing what to do after a work accident in San Bernardino begins with seeking prompt medical treatment for your injuries. California workers may receive medical treatment from the physician of their choice if they have predesignated a physician for such treatment. However, without prior written notification of a preferred physician before an injury occurs, workers must obtain treatment from an employer-designated provider, except in emergencies, where the nearest hospital provides treatment.
Workers dissatisfied with the treatment for their workplace injury may seek a second opinion or change providers. However, changing providers depends on whether the employer uses a medical provider network or a contracted healthcare organization. One of the many services a workers’ comp lawyer could provide to injured workers is an understanding of their rights within California’s workers’ compensation laws.
Notify Your Employer
What to do next after a workplace accident in San Bernardino is notify your employer. According to workers’ compensation rules, after an employee reports a workplace injury, their employer has one working day to provide the employee with a Workers’ Compensation Claim Form. The employee must fill out their portion of the form and return it to their employer, who also has a portion to fill out. Upon completion of the form by both employer and employee, the employer will give it to the claims administrator for their insurance company. The claims administrator will then evaluate the information and determine whether to accept or deny the claim.
Returning to Work After an Injury
An injured worker may return to work after a workplace accident when their treating physician determines it safe. In some cases, the worker may return to limited or light duty while still receiving treatment. For permanent injuries, the worker may be unable to perform their previous job or any work at all. The physician must notify the workers’ compensation insurer for the worker to qualify for permanent disability benefits.
Knowing what to do after an accident at work in San Bernardino, including navigating return-to-work decisions and disability benefits, can help injured workers protect their rights and ensure they receive proper compensation.
Need Help Understanding What to Do After a Workplace Incident in San Bernardino? Contact Us
Suffering from a workplace injury can be a frightening and frustrating experience, and the process of receiving the benefits you need can be complicated. If you are unsure what to do after a workplace accident in San Bernardino, our legal team is here to help. We can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and advocate on your behalf with your employer’s insurance provider. Contact us today for your free consultation.
(909) 885-1620