Work-related injuries are relatively common. As an employee, it is very important to be aware of your responsibilities and rights in case you are injured or suffer an illness resulting from work.
Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to provide you with the medical treatment you need to recover from your work-related injury or illness, partially replace the wages you lose while you are recovering, and help you return to work. Workers’ compensation benefits do not
include damages for pain and suffering or punitive damages.
It is extremely important to inform your employer about your workplace injury or illness. Make sure your supervisor is notified of your injury as soon as possible. If your injury or illness developed gradually, report it as soon as you learn or believe it was caused by your job. Reporting promptly helps avoid problems and delays in receiving benefits, including medical care. If you don’t report your injury within 30 days, you could lose your right to receive workers’
compensation benefits.
If your injury or illness requires emergency treatment, be certain to seek emergency care. If it’s an emergency, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away. Tell the medical staff that your injury or illness is job-related. If you can safely do so, contact your employer for further instructions. If you don’t need emergency treatment, make sure you get first aid and see a doctor if necessary. Once you file a claim, your employer is required to provide you with medical care.
If you have more questions or need additional help, contact us. The California Department of Industrial Relations provides the following information for workers on its website at: www.dir.ca.gov