Injured at Work in California? Here’s What You Need to Know About Workers’ Compensation

When Work Doesn’t Feel Safe Anymore

A workplace injury can leave you physically sidelined, emotionally drained, and financially unstable. Whether you fell from scaffolding, hurt your back lifting heavy materials, or developed carpal tunnel after years at a keyboard, you’re entitled to support. California workers’ compensation law is designed to protect employees—but getting the benefits you’re owed isn’t always easy.

At California Trial Law Group, PC, we help injured workers across the state fight for medical treatment, wage replacement, and long-term compensation. Our job is to deal with the legal system so you can focus on recovery.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers' compensation is a no-fault insurance program that provides benefits to employees injured on the job. In California, it’s mandatory for nearly all employers and covers injuries resulting from:

• Accidents (e.g., slips, falls, equipment malfunctions)
• Repetitive stress or strain
• Toxic exposure
• Mental stress or psychological trauma
• Aggravation of a pre-existing condition
• Work-related vehicle accidents

You don’t need to prove your employer did anything wrong—you just need to show that the injury occurred during the course of your employment.

Benefits You May Be Entitled To

A successful workers’ comp claim can provide:

Medical Treatment

• Doctor visits
• Surgeries
• Physical therapy
• Prescriptions
• Mileage reimbursement for travel to appointments

Wage Replacement

• Temporary Disability Benefits if you can’t work while recovering
• Permanent Disability Benefits if you’re left with lasting impairments

Job Retraining & Placement

• Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits (SJDB) to help you train for new employment if you can’t return to your prior job

Death Benefits

• Support for spouses, children, or dependents if a workplace accident results in death

Common Workplace Injuries We Handle

Our firm has successfully represented workers with injuries such as:

• Back and neck injuries
• Knee and shoulder trauma
• Broken bones
• Burns or electrocution
• Respiratory damage from toxic exposure
• Carpal tunnel and repetitive strain
• Work-induced stress, anxiety, or PTSD
• Catastrophic injuries or amputations

We also assist workers whose conditions have developed over time, such as cumulative trauma or occupational illnesses.

Why Workers’ Comp Claims Are Denied

Even though you’re legally entitled to benefits, the system is stacked with obstacles. Insurance companies and employers may:

• Claim your injury wasn’t work-related
• Say you waited too long to report it
• Dispute the severity of your injury
• Deny treatment recommended by your doctor
• Push you to return to work before you’re ready

At California Trial Law Group, we know how to challenge these tactics—and we don’t back down.

Your Rights as an Injured Worker

In California, you have specific rights under the Workers’ Compensation Act:

• You have the right to file a claim without retaliation
• You have the right to see a doctor and receive necessary care
• You have the right to appeal a denial of benefits
• You may choose your own doctor after a certain period, depending on your employer’s medical provider network (MPN)

We protect those rights and guide you at every step—from the initial claim through appeals, hearings, and negotiations.

Why Choose California Trial Law Group?

We’re not just legal representatives—we’re your advocates, start to finish. Here’s why workers across California trust us:

• Deep Expertise: Attorney Ike M. Kaludi, Esq. has handled hundreds of workers’ comp cases across industries—from construction and healthcare to office and logistics jobs.
• Hands-On Case Management: Our case managers and legal team work closely with clients to monitor claims and push back against delays.
• Aggressive Negotiation: We fight for full benefits and maximum compensation, whether at the claims board or through trial.
• Clear Communication: We break down every step in plain English—so you’re never left in the dark.

Real Results, Real People

"My case was emotionally taxing, but the team at this firm approached it with professionalism, expertise, and compassion. They guided me through every step of the legal process." — Trinidad A.

"Ike always kept me in the loop with what was going on with my case. Ike and his team were always available—no matter the day or night." — Jeanette D.

Don’t Wait — Deadlines Matter

In California, you must report your injury to your employer within 30 days and file a formal workers’ comp claim within one year. But the sooner you act, the stronger your case. Waiting can lead to lost benefits or denied care.

Talk to a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

Don’t go up against your employer or their insurance provider alone. At California Trial Law Group, PC, we know the system—and how to make it work for you. Whether you’re just starting a claim or facing a denial, we’re here to help you move forward.