If you’ve suffered an injury on the job in California, workers’ compensation can make it easier to pay your bills and get by. However, it’s common for employers and their insurers to deny claims or provide settlements that don’t adequately compensate you for your losses. If you are unable to cover your bills with your workers’ compensation benefits, here are some things to consider.
What Qualifies as a Workplace Injury?
A workplace injury that qualifies for workers’ compensation includes any injury, illness or accident that happens while you are working. This includes falls, strains, repetitive motion injuries and job-related illnesses.
What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?
Workers’ compensation benefits are granted without proving employer fault. They are supposed to cover lost wages and medical expenses related to your injury. Unfortunately, while these benefits are tax-free, they only provide 60% of what you earned before your injury. As a result, many individuals find themselves struggling to pay their bills due to the loss of income.
What if Workers’ Compensation Isn’t Enough?
Workers’ compensation benefits may not always be sufficient, particularly if you are the main provider for your family. Some workers experience long wait times for their benefits to be approved. If you are unable to make ends meet with your workers’ compensation benefits or your payments have been delayed, here are steps you can take.
Reach Out for Help
If you’re struggling to cover your bills, consider reaching out to your family and friends for temporary assistance. Some people may feel uncomfortable asking for money, but you can also request other forms of help, such as a hot meal or assistance with household chores.
Don’t hesitate to contact organizations that provide financial support and guidance during this time. Food pantries are also an excellent source of help. Some also provide assistance with housing and applying for government programs like WIC or SNAP.
Cut Back on Expenses
Reducing your expenses temporarily can be helpful until you return to work. Consider canceling your cable package and asking your cell phone provider for better rates. Also, limit spending on non-essentials like fast food and entertainment to give yourself more financial flexibility.
Do not try to get another job while you are receiving workers’ comp. This can be used by your employer’s insurance company as evidence that you are faking your injury or trying to avoid returning to work.
Request Disability Benefits
In some cases, individuals may be eligible for both disability benefits and workers’ compensation. For instance, you might have coverage through an employer-sponsored disability policy or a private one. To learn more about your options and determine if you meet the necessary requirements, you should contact a lawyer in California.
Can You Seek Damages from a Third Party?
In most cases, you can’t sue your employer for a workplace injury. However, you may seek damages from a third party responsible for unsafe conditions or the accident. If their negligence caused your injury, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit. This applies to settings like construction sites, factories and transportation vehicles.
Accident claims and filing for workers’ compensation can become complicated. The best course of action is to meet with a lawyer who is well-versed in this field and has plenty of experience. Consulting a lawyer and weighing your options can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
