Protecting Your Rights as an Injured Kitchen Employee  

 Posted on December 27, 2022 in Workers' Compensation

Working in a kitchen is one of the most physically demanding occupations, and kitchen work can be extremely dangerous. From sharp knives to hot grease and steam, kitchen employees face numerous potential workplace dangers. What can you do if you have been injured while working in a kitchen? An experienced California workers’ compensation lawyer can help you understand your rights as an injured worker and how to file a workers’ compensation claim.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation

If you have been injured while working in a kitchen—whether you work in a restaurant kitchen, an institutional or commercial kitchen, or any other type of kitchen—you may be entitled to workers compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation benefits in California are intended to provide financial assistance for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to your injury.

To receive benefits, you will need to show that your injury occurred while performing work-related tasks. For example, a severe burn or knife cut that you sustained on the job would very clearly be work-related, while tripping and falling on your way into work might not be considered as such. It is important to keep detailed records of your injuries as well as any incident reports that were filed following the accident. You should also collect any witness statements or medical documents related to your injury.

Filing a Claim

Before filing a California workers’ compensation claim, you need to understand that each state has their own set of laws and regulations regarding workers’ compensation benefits. Therefore, it is important that you consult with an experienced attorney who is knowledgeable about these laws before proceeding with your case. An attorney can also help guide you through the claims process and ensure that all necessary paperwork is properly filled out and submitted on time.

Denied Claims

Not all workers’ compensation claims are approved on the first try. If your claim is denied by the insurance company, you still have options available to appeal the decision. An experienced attorney can represent you during this process and ensure that all necessary documents are presented in court. Additionally, they can work closely with doctors who specialize in workplace injuries so they can explain why certain treatments or accommodations are needed due to your injury or illness. By having an experienced lawyer on your side throughout this process, you can rest assured knowing that someone is fighting for justice on behalf of yourself and other injured workers like yourself who may not know where else to turn for help after suffering an accident at work.

Contact a Gilroy Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If you were injured while working in any type of kitchen, you may be eligible to collect benefits through the California workers’ compensation system. Contact an experienced Santa Clara County workers’ compensation benefits attorney at Cramer + Martinez for a free consultation and case review. Call 408-848-1113 to get started today.

Sources:

https://www.darpro-solutions.com/media/blog/three-common-restaurant-comp-claims

https://www.dir.ca.gov/dwc/InjuredWorker.htm