You went to work expecting a routine day—not to leave with life-altering injuries. Now you’re facing intense physical pain, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. No employer has the right to put employees in harm’s way.
At Walters & Zinn, Attorneys at Law, our experienced Sacramento workplace injury lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you need to recover. With millions recovered in settlements and verdicts, we are trusted advocates for injured workers throughout Sacramento and beyond.
What Is Workers’ Compensation in California?
Workers’ Compensation is a form of employer-provided insurance that covers medical costs, lost wages, and other benefits for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. In California, nearly all employers are legally required to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance—even if they only employ one person.
Workers’ Compensation is typically a “no-fault” system, meaning you may be eligible for benefits regardless of who caused the accident. However, in most cases, it also limits your right to sue your employer.
Although the process is supposed to be straightforward, many valid claims are delayed or denied due to:
- Paperwork errors.
- Missed deadlines.
- Employer disputes.
- Insurance company tactics.
Hiring a Sacramento Workers’ Compensation lawyer can greatly improve your chances of approval and help ensure you receive the maximum benefits available.
Classification of Workplace Injuries in Sacramento, California
Workers’ Compensation in California is a no-fault system designed to provide benefits if you are injured on the job or during the course and scope of your employment. At Walters & Zinn, Attorneys at Law, we represent clients with a wide range of Workers’ Compensation claims and help evaluate potential benefits and additional claims that may be available.
Common classifications of workplace injuries include:
- Cumulative Exposure Injuries: Injuries that develop gradually from repetitive tasks or long-term exposure to hazardous conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or hearing loss.
- Third-Party Accidents: Injuries caused the negligence of someone other than your employer or coworker, such as contractors or delivery drivers, that occur during your job duties.
- Occupational Exposure: Harm caused exposure to toxic chemicals, loud noises, vibrations, or other dangerous elements. This exposure may be from a single incident or ongoing.
- Psychological Injuries: Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD caused workplace stress, harassment, or traumatic events. These claims can sometimes also be linked to civil litigation.
- Work-Related Motor Vehicle Accidents: Injuries sustained in car accidents occurring while driving for work purposes, even if off-site.
The amount of compensation varies depending on your wages, age, the severity of your injury, and how it affects your ability to work. Our Sacramento workplace injury lawyers will assess your case thoroughly and help you pursue all available benefits, including potential Social Security Disability claims or third-party claims.
Common Workplace Injuries in Sacramento
Workplace injuries can take many forms, and knowing what injuries are most common can help you understand your rights and what to expect from your Workers’ Compensation claim. Some of the most frequent injuries we see include:
- Musculoskeletal Injuries: Strains, sprains, and tears affecting muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints, often caused lifting, repetitive motion, or awkward movements.
- Back and Spinal Injuries: Including herniated discs, fractures, or nerve damage from falls, heavy lifting, or vehicle accidents.
- Burns and Chemical Exposure: Injuries from contact with hot surfaces, chemicals, or electrical sources.
- Cuts, Lacerations, and Amputations: Injuries caused machinery, tools, or accidents involving sharp objects.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Resulting from slips, falls, or being struck objects.
- Hearing Loss: Caused long-term exposure to loud machinery or noise pollution.
- Respiratory Conditions: Resulting from inhalation of dust, fumes, or hazardous substances.
- Mental Health Issues: Stress, anxiety, PTSD, or depression resulting from workplace harassment, traumatic events, or high-pressure environments.
If you experience any of these injuries or others at work, you may be entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
What Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available in California?
California’s Workers’ Compensation system provides multiple forms of support to help injured workers recover:
- Medical Care: All necessary treatments related to your work injury, including doctor visits, surgeries, prescriptions, physical therapy, and medical equipment.
- Temporary Disability Benefits: Wage replacement if you cannot work while recovering, typically about two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: Compensation for lasting impairment that affects your ability to work.
- Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits: Vouchers for retraining or education if you cannot return to your previous job and no suitable alternative is offered your employer.
- Death Benefits: Financial support and burial expenses for dependents if a worker dies due to a job-related injury or illness.
What If My Employer Doesn’t Have Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
California law requires employers to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance. If your employer is uninsured and you are injured on the job, you can file a claim with the Uninsured Employers Benefits Trust Fund (UEBTF) to receive benefits. You may also pursue a civil lawsuit against your employer.
How Can Walters & Zinn, Attorneys at Law Help?
Our Sacramento workplace injury lawyers provide:
- Clear guidance on your rights and the claims process.
- Accurate and timely filing of claims.
- Communication with insurers and the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board.
- Protection from workplace retaliation.
- Aggressive pursuit of the full benefits you deserve.
We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing.
Contact Our Sacramento Workplace Injury Lawyers at Walters & Zinn, Attorneys at Law for More Information
If you have been injured at work, call 916-610-4706 or fill out our online form today for a free consultation. Let our experienced Sacramento workplace injury lawyers at Walters & Zinn, Attorneys at Law assist. Located in Folsom and Fairfield, California, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.