It can be frustrating and painful to deal with a workplace injury. The recovery process can be lengthy and difficult, and you won’t be able to return to work if the injury is serious. You can pursue a workers’ compensation claim, but there may still be additional financial burdens you didn’t expect. You may be asking, “What are some financial effects of workplace injuries in California?”
How Workplace Injuries Impact Workers in San Bernardino and Across the U.S.
Millions of Americans head to work every day and many do not expect to suffer an on-the-job injury. Unfortunately, workers’ injuries occur too frequently and present serious physical, emotional and financial consequences for people in San Bernardino, California, and throughout the United States. While many people are aware of the physical consequences of a workplace accident, such as a neck injury or a brain injury, it is also important for employers and employees to understand the financial impact of these accidents and look for ways to reduce the likelihood of an employee being hurt.
California Workplace Injury Statistics and Mental Health Resources
In a recent study by the U.S. Department of Labor, the DOL revealed that there were 439 fatal work injuries in California alone in 2023. The majority of these fatal injuries were the result of transportation accidents. If you are fortunate enough to survive your injury, you may want to consider reaching out to a local mental health support group, such as Men’s Process Group or Women’s Monthly Support Group. Talking to someone about your struggles can help.
The Financial Consequences of Workplace Injuries for Workers and Families
On their website, the U.S. Department of Labor published revealing information on the negative financial effects of workplace injuries. According to the DOL, workplace injuries are very costly for injured workers, their families and even the economy in various ways. For injured workers and their families, injuries can result in burdensome medical expenses and lost wages. Also, workers tend to earn less after an injury, even after they have recovered. Furthermore, an alarming number of injured workers who are eligible for workers’ compensation never even apply for benefits they were entitled to.
Finding the Right Workplace Injury Lawyer and Legal Strategy
If you have been hurt at work, it is very important to understand all of your options and carefully identify the most ideal path forward. Consulting with an experienced workplace injury lawyer can help you navigate your claim and protect your rights. Whether your injury was caused by repetitive stress or a ladder fall, workplace injury cases are unique and require an individualized approach. Please understand that this material was written to provide helpful information on some of the financial consequences of workplace injuries and should not be taken as legal advice.
FAQs
What Is the Financial Impact of Workplace Injuries?
The financial impact of workplace injuries can be significant, depending on everything you may have to deal with as a result of your injury. Workers’ comp can be a significant help in offsetting your medical costs, but it does not compensate you for the full value of your missed wages. Therefore, you’ll be receiving less money than what you typically earn.
How Can a Workplace Injury Affect You Financially?
There are many different ways that a workplace injury can affect you financially. Even with the help of workers’ comp benefits, you may still lose money thanks to ongoing medical costs, lost wages, and other potential long-term financial commitments that come with the fallout of a serious workplace injury.
Do I Get Paid for a Work-Related Injury in California?
Yes, you may get paid for a work-related injury in California by way of workers’ compensation benefits. In California, workers’ comp benefits operate on a no-fault system. That means you only need to prove that your accident happened at work. It doesn’t matter if it was your fault. When you accept workers’ comp benefits, you are agreeing not to pursue legal action against your employer for the accident.
How Much Is the Average Workers’ Comp Settlement in California?
There is no telling how much the average workers’ comp settlement is in California. Every workers’ comp case is different, with its own contributing factors that influence the settlement amount. Factors such as the severity of your injury, your total medical costs, and whether or not you will need ongoing medical care will all influence the amount you will receive in a settlement.
Reach Out to a Workers’ Comp Lawyer
It can be difficult to deal with the fallout of a workplace injury, but it’s important that you take the necessary steps to protect yourself if it happens to you. A good lawyer can ensure that your case is taken seriously and you are able to receive your benefits.
The legal team at Kampf, Schiavone & Associates can help you build your case and fight to get you the benefits you are owed. Contact us to speak to someone about your case.
