Category: Workers Compensation

Can You Reopen an Old Workers’ Compensation Claim?

California allows you to reopen your old workers’ compensation claim under certain conditions, but there are rules to follow and forms to complete before your petition is even considered. You can request to have your case reopened if your injury or illness worsened, and the judge has already issued the award. You should consider consulting […]

Traveling While on Workers’ Compensation Two Things to Know

A workplace injury or illness can limit your physical ability and mobility. If you feel up to traveling for a vacation or any other reason, there is no law that prevents you from doing so. However, it could have negative implications for your case. For example, it might hinder your recovery if you have to […]

How Do FMLA and Workers’ Compensation Work Together?

If you are injured or become ill at work, you could be entitled to both FMLA coverage and workers’ compensation benefits. Your employer is not required to make both programs available simultaneously. Instead, they should let you choose which program provides you with the most appropriate rights and benefits. Every injured employee will have a unique […]

Can Independent Contractors Get Workers’ Compensation?

No, independent contractors cannot get workers’ compensation. However, your boss might misclassify you as an independent contractor to avoid paying benefits they are supposed to provide under the law, like workers’ compensation coverage. How California Defines Independent Contractors You might be an independent contractor if the employer hires you to perform a specific project or […]

Are Workers’ Compensation Cases Public Record?

Yes, workers’ compensation cases are public record in California but to a certain extent. If you filed a workers’ comp claim that went through the state’s workers’ compensation process or the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB), the fact that you had a comp case becomes public record. Your old workers’ compensation case could show up […]

Seven Reasons Workers’ Compensation Is Important

Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that employers must carry to provide employees with medical care and economic support for work-related injuries or illnesses. This program is important to ensure that employees receive these benefits regardless of who was at fault, eliminating the need for the worker to show another party’s negligence.  Moreover, its […]

How to file a complaint against workers’ compensation adjuster

The California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) provides a form for individuals to file a complaint against a workers’ compensation adjuster or administrator. It’s called the Audit Complaint Form, and it can be used for complaints regarding:  Late disability payments Denial of liability Failure to pay for treatments Failure to investigate a claim Filing a […]

Is this business entity required to provide workers compensation insurance

Nearly every employer and business entity in California is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, per LAB § 3700. This applies to business entities with only one worker, regardless of whether the employees are seasonal, temporary, part-time, or full-time.  A business entity is required to provide workers’ compensation insurance in California unless the entity is […]

Workers Compensation for Healthcare Workers: 5 Things to Know

In the fast-paced and demanding world of healthcare, dedicated professionals on the front lines often face numerous challenges and risks, such as work-related injuries or illnesses. In such instances, workers’ compensation becomes an essential aspect of protecting the rights and well-being of these indispensable individuals.  Whether you’re a nurse, doctor, technician, or any other healthcare […]

Are Seasonal Workers Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?

California requires employers to offer workers’ compensation benefits to seasonal employees. Workers’ compensation eligibility does not require the employee to work all 12 months of the year. If your boss denies your workers’ comp claim because you are a seasonal employee, the denial is likely illegal.  Workers’ compensation claims of seasonal workers can, however, get […]