Workers' Compensation Claims for California Hospital Workers
Employees in every industry face different risks of injury and harm based on the nature of their work. Hospital workers are no exception and are entitled to workers’ compensation when they are hurt. They face a significant risk of getting injured at work, especially because they deal with diseases and hazardous materials and need to medicate and even lift sick patients. If you got hurt while at your hospital job, speak with a qualified San Benito County, CA workers’ compensation attorney who can help you navigate the claims process and advocate for maximum compensation.
Common Injuries Among Hospital Workers
Hospital workers are at risk for facing many types of injuries, due to the unique nature of the work they do. Some of these are:
- Musculoskeletal injuries: Lifting, transferring, and repositioning patients can lead to back strains, shoulder injuries, and other disorders.
- Needle stick injuries: Getting accidentally punctured by needles or other sharp objects can lead to infections or other serious conditions.
- Exposure to diseases: Contact with infectious patients and infected bodily fluids can result in diseases.
- Slip and fall accidents: Spills, cluttered hallways, and wet floors can cause slips, trips, and falls.
How to File a Workers’ Comp Claim
However you got hurt, there are some steps that anyone with a workers’ compensation claim should take:
- Report the injury: California law requires that you notify your employer within 30 days of the incident to ensure your claim is valid.
- Seek medical attention: This will ensure that you are taking care of your health and enabling authorized documentation of your injury and required treatment.
- Complete claim forms: Get a Workers’ Compensation Claim Form (DWC-1) from your employer. Completing it formally initiates your claim process. Keep copies of all documents for your records.
- Follow up on your claim: Once you file the claim forms, your employer’s insurance company will review them. They can dispute the claim, authorize treatment, or propose a settlement. It is important to stay informed about the status of your claim.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Hollister, CA Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Workers' compensation is an important resource for California employees who are injured at their jobs. As a hospital worker with a job-related injury, you should speak with a skilled San Benito County, CA workers’ compensation attorney who can guide you through the process. At Cramer + Martinez, we can help you navigate the claims system to ensure you receive the benefits and support you need. Call us at 408-848-1113 to schedule a free consultation.