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Workplace accidents cause severe injuries that affect your ability to earn a living and support your family. Under California Labor Code §6400, employers must provide a safe and healthful place of employment. When they fail, injured workers have legal options to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term disability.
Mercer Legal Group represents employees injured on the job throughout Los Angeles and surrounding California communities.
A workplace accident claim is a legal process that allows injured employees to recover compensation after suffering injuries on the job. California law provides two primary paths for recovery: workers’ compensation benefits and, in certain situations, third-party personal injury lawsuits.
Under California Labor Code §3600, employers must provide compensation for injuries “arising out of and in the course of employment” regardless of fault. This no-fault system covers medical treatment, temporary disability payments, permanent disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation when an employee cannot return to their previous position.
However, workers’ compensation has limitations. It does not compensate for pain and suffering or full wage replacement. When a third party—someone other than your employer—contributed to your injury, you m
Workplace injuries occur across all industries in Los Angeles and throughout California. Common accident types include:
Construction Site Injuries Falls from scaffolding, ladder accidents, struck-by incidents, and trench collapses cause serious injuries on construction sites. Multiple contractors working on the same project often create third-party liability opportunities beyond workers’ compensation.
Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents Wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and cluttered walkways cause slip and fall injuries in warehouses, retail locations, and office buildings. Property owners who fail to maintain safe premises may face liability.
Machinery and Equipment Accidents Defective machinery, inadequate guarding, and lack of proper lockout/tagout procedures result in crush injuries, amputations, and electrocutions. Manufacturers of defective equipment may be liable under California product liability law.
Vehicle Accidents During Employment Employees injured in car accidents while driving for work purposes may file claims against negligent drivers. Delivery drivers, sales representatives, and employees running work errands maintain both workers’ compensation and third-party claim rights.
Chemical Exposure and Toxic Substances Exposure to hazardous chemicals, asbestos, and toxic fumes causes occupational illnesses. Manufacturers and suppliers who fail to provide adequate warnings may face liability separate from workers’ compensation.
Repetitive Stress Injuries Carpal tunnel syndrome, back problems from lifting, and other cumulative trauma injuries develop over time. California Labor Code §3208.1 recognizes these injuries as compensable work injuries.
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California maintains strict employer obligations for workplace safety under Labor Code §6400-6413.5 and Cal/OSHA regulations. Employers must implement written Injury and Illness Prevention Programs (IIPP) under Title 8, CCR Section 3203.
Statute of Limitations Workers’ compensation claims: One year from date of injury (Labor Code §5405) Third-party personal injury claims: Two years from date of injury (CCP §335.1)
Case Value Factors Workplace accident case value depends on injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, permanent impairment, and the strength of liability evidence against responsible parties. Each case requires individual evaluation based on its specific facts.
Mercer Legal Group handles workplace accident cases throughout Los Angeles County, including Woodland Hills, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Long Beach, and the San Fernando Valley. Our attorneys understand both California workers’ compensation law and personal injury litigation.
We investigate each case to identify all liable parties. Construction accidents often involve multiple contractors. Machinery injuries may involve product manufacturers. Vehicle accidents implicate other drivers’ insurance policies. Identifying these parties increases your potential recovery.
Our approach includes:
Initial Case Evaluation We review your accident circumstances, medical records, and employment situation to determine all available legal options.
Evidence Collection Workplace accident evidence disappears quickly. We preserve accident reports, witness statements, equipment records, and safety inspection documentation.
Medical Documentation Proper medical documentation connects your injuries to the workplace accident and establishes the treatment you need. We work with physicians who understand occupational injuries.
Insurance Negotiations Insurance adjusters protect their company’s interests. We handle all communications and negotiate for compensation that reflects your actual losses.
Litigation When Necessary Some cases require filing lawsuits to achieve fair compensation. Our attorneys prepare every case for trial, even while pursuing settlement negotiations.
Step 1: Report Your Injury California law requires reporting workplace injuries to your employer within 30 days. Provide written notice describing the accident and injuries sustained.
Step 2: Seek Medical Treatment Document your injuries through medical evaluation. Follow your treating physician’s recommendations and keep records of all appointments and treatments.
Step 3: File Required Claims Complete the DWC-1 claim form your employer must provide. This initiates the workers’ compensation process and preserves your rights to benefits.
Step 4: Contact Mercer Legal Group Call our Los Angeles office to discuss your case. We evaluate whether third-party claims exist and explain your legal options at no cost for the initial consultation.
Get medical help immediately, even for minor injuries. Report the accident to your employer with date, time, location, and witnesses. Record medical costs and procedures.
Your workplace accident lawyer can help you gather evidence, negotiate with employers and insurers, and represent you in court. They defend and pay.
Medical bills, lost pay, future earnings, pain and suffering, and long-term care can arise from workplace accidents. Compensation depends on the accident and situation.
Job accident statutes of limitations vary by state and case. For timely filing, consult a workplace accident lawyer.
Most workplace accident lawyers practice on contingency, meaning they only get paid if you win. A percentage of your settlement or award is their fee.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified wrongful termination lawyer in Los Angeles, California, for advice specific to your situation.
