While some professions are more prone to accidents than others (construction, skilled trades, factory workers, etc.) injuries can happen on any job with little or no warning. Although severe workplace accidents often involve major trauma, even considerably safer jobs - like office workers or retail employees - can experience suffering due to workplace injuries. If you or someone you know has recently suffered a workplace injury, contact a work-related accident attorney to explore your options.
The Sevey Law Firm has been helping workplace injury victims for more than a decade. Our team of experienced lawyers understand the complex rules and regulations involved in work-related accident claims and take pride in guiding victims and their families through this often misunderstood process.
We offer free, no obligation consultations to all of our clients, and never charge a fee unless we win your case. With years of legal experience, our work-related accident lawyers can assist you in filing your accident claim. Call us today at (916) 788-7100 to schedule your free initial consultation and discuss your case.
The kinds of workplace accidents involving employees span the entire spectrum. From traumas resulting from poorly maintained or defective equipment to slower onset aches and pains due to repetitive stress or motion injuries. The end results can be minor, like strains or bruises, or as severe and tragic as a wrongful death. Just about any type of injury imaginable can be experienced in a workplace accident scenario.
No matter what the injury, if it happens during the course of one’s assigned job duties, that employee may be entitled to compensation. Here are a few typical causes of workplace accidents:
Most organizations have their own legal department to handle workplace injury claims, and their job is to see that you receive the smallest compensation possible. Having one of the personal injury attorneys from The Sevey Law Firm on your side can help level the playing field and ensure your claim is taken seriously.
We have a long history of helping Northern California residents with work-related accident claims, and we can do the same for you. There's never a charge to speak with us, and we only collect a fee if we win your case. If you have questions about a work-related accident or injury, call us today at (916) 788-7100 to arrange for your free consultation.
Workplace injuries are normally addressed in one of two ways: either by initiating a Workers’ Compensation claim OR by filing a civil lawsuit. In some instances both are possible, but this is rarely the case. Workers’ Compensation and civil suits each have certain advantages and disadvantages depending on the circumstances of the case.
In California, employers are required by law to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance. The purpose is to protect both employees AND the employer in case of an accident.
Employees benefit by not having to prove fault in their claim - only that they were hurt while performing a work-related activity. Businesses and government agencies are helped by avoiding costly litigation and being able to resolve cases quickly.
Usually, compensation is equal to about two-thirds of an employee’s average pay. Claimants also have associated medical costs covered, receive additional compensation for permanent injuries and special funds for retraining if they cannot return to their previous job.
Workers’ Compensation claims are normally easier to win as compared with lawsuits. However, because claim awards are predetermined by state or federal guidelines, the resulting compensation is considerably less than a civil suit might bring.
While workers’ comp is often the easier route to take, it may not always be the best. In some instances, filing a lawsuit may be more appropriate. Civil suits differ from workers’ comp claims in that proving fault is a key component of the entire case. Additionally, the injuries have to be the fault of a third party’s actions - not the employer.
For either path, it’s best to speak with a qualified work-related accident lawyer to understand fully how the law applies in your case.
Third party negligence can be a confusing element, but there are instances when this kind of negligence applies. For instance:
Vehicle Accidents - If suffered while on company business and involving a third party.
Defective Products or Equipment - When used to complete an assigned task and causes harm in the process.
Toxic Substances - That are used in the workplace or for daily activities.
Being forced to use toxic materials alone does not necessarily constitute fault - only if the employer did not provide adequate safety protection or training, or if the organization was unaware of the effects of using such substances.
While work-related injury claims may seem straightforward, that’s rarely the case. Whether you choose to go with Workers’ Compensation, or decide to file a civil suit, it’s always best to speak with a lawyer that specializes in workplace accidents before starting the process.
Personal injury law firms that do not have experience in this area usually lack the training and resources required to win such claims. Always look for attorneys with strong skill sets and proven track records in these kinds of cases.
The injury team at The Sevey Law Firm understand the complex rules and regulations surrounding workplace accidents and work tirelessly to help victims in these situations.
We offer free, no obligation consultations to discuss the specifics of your accident, and never charge a fee unless we win your case. We focus on the bigger picture - not just initial injuries, but the long-term effects on a person’s health, income, and emotional well-being.
Nothing is guaranteed, but your chances of receiving a favorable outcome are significantly improved by partnering with an experienced work-related accident attorney. In California, you have a limited amount of time to file your claim and notify your employer. Delaying the process could forfeit your right to compensation.
Don’t wait. Call our office today at (916) 788-7100 to arrange for your free consultation and get started on the road to recovery.