Sacramento Workers’ Compensation Benefit Lawyers

California firm helps secure payment for medical care and lost income

A workplace injury can disrupt every aspect of your life, from your ability to earn a paycheck to your long-term physical health. Fortunately, California’s workers’ compensation system provides financial and medical support to employees who are injured on the job, regardless of fault. However, accessing workers’ compensation benefits can be complex, and disputes often arise. For decades, Mastagni Holstedt, APC in Sacramento has helped injured workers understand their rights and pursue the full benefits they are entitled to receive.

Types of workers’ compensation benefits available in California

California workers’ compensation law provides several categories of benefits to injured employees:

• Medical — All reasonable and necessary treatment related to the work injury, including doctor visits, hospital care, surgery, physical therapy, prescription medications and medical equipment.
• Temporary disability — Partial wage replacement when a worker cannot perform their regular duties while recovering. 
• Permanent disability — Compensation for the long-term loss of earning capacity.

When an employee cannot return to their prior job, supplemental job displacement benefits provide a voucher for retraining or skill enhancement. For fatal workplace accidents, death benefits are paid to eligible surviving dependents for funeral expenses and lost financial support.

Common workplace injuries covered by workers’ compensation

Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of injuries and occupational illnesses. Common examples include:

• Back and neck injuries from lifting or repetitive motion
• Fractures from falls
• Burns and other medical problems caused by machinery or equipment failures
• Repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome

In addition, workers’ compensation may apply to occupational illnesses caused by exposure to harmful substances, as well as certain mental health conditions that relate directly to workplace stress or traumatic events. Importantly, benefits are generally available regardless of who was at fault for the injury, as long as it arose out of, and occurred in the course of, employment.

Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Sacramento

In California, injured workers typically must notify their employer within 30 days of the injury or discovery of a work-related condition. The employer must provide a claim form (DWC-1), which the employee completes and returns.

Once the claim is submitted, the employer’s insurance carrier will investigate and decide whether to accept or deny the claim. While the claim is under review, the insurer must generally authorize medical treatment. Keeping detailed records of medical visits, work restrictions and communications with the employer or insurer is essential.

Our Sacramento workers’ compensation lawyers help workers filing a claim avoid mistakes and delays that can jeopardize the benefits they need and deserve.

What to do if your workers’ compensation claim is denied

Unfortunately, insurers sometimes deny claims based on allegations that the injury was not work-related, occurred outside the scope of employment, or is not medically supported. Workers have the right to challenge a denial. 

The appeals process typically involves filing an application for adjudication of claim with the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board and participating in hearings before a workers’ compensation judge. At this stage, legal representation is crucial for gathering and presenting evidence that can deliver a positive result.

Permanent disability ratings and long-term benefits

When a worker’s condition reaches maximum medical improvement but they remain substantially impaired, a physician assigns a permanent disability rating. This rating reflects the extent to which the injury limits the worker’s ability to perform. The calculation of permanent disability benefits depends on this rating, the worker’s age, occupation and date of injury. With severe disabilities, lifetime payments may be available. Understanding how physicians determine ratings and whether a rating is accurate is essential for securing appropriate compensation.

Get a free consultation from a Sacramento workers’ compensation attorney

Mastagni Holstedt, APC represents California clients injured on the job access workers’ compensation benefits. To schedule a free consultation, call or contact us online. Our offices are located in Sacramento, Rancho Cucamonga, Pleasanton and Redwood City.