BLOG

Can you get fired while on workers’ comp in California? Employers may end jobs for lawful reasons like layoffs or performance issues, but retaliation for filing a claim is illegal. Benefits such as medical care and wage replacement usually continue even if employment ends.

Pre-existing conditions can complicate California workers’ comp claims, but they do not erase your rights. Learn how the law protects injured workers when accidents aggravate old injuries, how apportionment works, and what steps to take if benefits are reduced or denied.

California workers who file a workers’ compensation claim are legally protected from discrimination or retaliation by current or prospective employers. In most cases, a claim does not impact future employment because claim histories are private and generally inaccessible to hiring managers. Applicants are not required to disclose prior claims unless an injury directly affects their ability to perform job duties. Employers may request a medical exam only after extending a conditional job offer, and any findings must be handled in compliance with disability and anti-discrimination laws. If an injury limits future job options, workers may qualify for retraining or vocational support under state programs.

The 2025 increase to California’s State Average Weekly Wage (SAWW) directly impacts how much injured workers receive in temporary and permanent disability benefits. This blog explains what the SAWW is, outlines the updated 2025 rates, and breaks down how they apply based on the date of injury and type of claim. Whether you’re recovering from a recent workplace accident or receiving long-term disability payments, understanding the SAWW update can help you ensure you’re getting the correct compensation.

OSHA sets workplace safety standards to prevent injuries and protect workers. In California, Cal/OSHA enforces additional state-specific rules. Common violations include fall hazards, unsafe machinery, and poor hazard communication. Employers must provide training, safety equipment, and report serious incidents. Workers have the right to report unsafe conditions without retaliation. While fault isn’t required for workers’ compensation, OSHA violations can strengthen a claim by showing unsafe practices.

If you’re injured at work in California, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your health and your workers’ compensation claim. Report the injury to your employer within 30 days, seek immediate medical care, and inform your doctor that the injury is job-related. File a DWC-1 claim form as soon as possible, and keep detailed records of how the injury occurred, medical treatment received, and any missed work. California law provides benefits such as medical care, temporary and permanent disability payments, job displacement support, and death benefits in fatal cases. Avoid common mistakes like missing deadlines or returning to work too early. If your claim is delayed, denied, or you’re unsure about your rights, a Sacramento workers’ compensation attorney can guide you through the process and help secure the benefits you deserve.

California workers’ compensation provides medical treatment for work-related injuries, covering doctor visits, surgeries, therapy, and prescriptions. Learn how to request care, navigate approvals, and appeal denied treatments to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.

California’s workers’ compensation benefits are increasing in 2025, bringing higher temporary and permanent disability payments for injured workers. Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) will also help long-term recipients keep up with inflation. If you’re navigating a workers’ comp claim, understanding these changes is crucial to securing the benefits you deserve. Learn what’s new and how to protect your rights.

California has increased temporary disability benefits for injured workers starting January 1, 2025. Learn how these changes impact your workers’ compensation claim and what to do if your payments are delayed or incorrect.

At Mehlhop & Vogt Law Offices, our team is committed to guiding you every step of the way in the workers’ compensation claim process. Whether you’re looking to begin your claim, worried about your eligibility, confused about your rights, or struggling with a rejected or stalled claim, we are prepared to help. No matter where you are in the process, our experienced legal professionals in Sacramento are dedicated to achieving the positive resolution you deserve.

Mehlhop & Vogt Law Offices specialize in workers’ compensation law, assisting injured employees in Sacramento since 1987. Certified experts in California law, they handle claims for injuries, illnesses, and disputes, including denied claims and third-party negligence. With a focus on personal attention and comprehensive strategies, the firm ensures clients navigate the complex legal process effectively. The top workplace injuries include overexertion, slips, and machinery entanglements, underscoring the importance of safety practices. For those injured, immediate reporting, seeking approved medical care, and consulting experienced attorneys are vital steps to secure compensation.

California workers’ compensation is a mandatory insurance system that provides benefits to employees injured or ill due to their work. Governed by the California Workers’ Compensation Act, it ensures medical treatment, wage replacement, and other benefits for injured workers while protecting employers from lawsuits. Most employers, regardless of size, are required to carry this insurance, with some exceptions like self-employed individuals without employees.

Benefits include medical treatment, temporary and permanent disability compensation, vocational rehabilitation, and death benefits for dependents in fatal cases. Employees must follow specific procedures when filing claims. Seeking guidance from a workers’ compensation attorney or the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) can help employees understand their rights and navigate the process effectively.

Sacramento Workers Compensation Attorneys Temporary Disability Benefits Temporary disability benefits are provided to employees who suffer from a work-related injury or illness that temporarily prevents them from performing their regular job duties. These benefits are intended to compensate for lost wages during the recovery period. The benefit amount is generally two-thirds of the injured worker’s […]

workers compensation attorney in Sacramento In most cases, workers’ compensation does not cover injuries sustained during your regular commute to and from work. This is because California law generally considers commuting a personal activity, not directly related to your job duties. However, there are some important exceptions where you may still be eligible for workers’ […]

workers compensation Lawyer in Sacramento At Mehlhop & Vogt Law Offices, we understand that life doesn’t always follow a predictable path. Sometimes, circumstances change, and you may find yourself leaving a job while still dealing with a work-related injury. A common question we hear from workers in this situation is, “Can I file for workers’ […]

Back and neck injuries are some of the most serious and potentially life-threatening injuries given the sensitivity of the spinal cord and the central nervous system. Suffering any type of injury in general could be a traumatic experience but getting injured while on the job, could be even more stressful. A back injury can happen out of nowhere and depending on what type of work you’re in, you could be prone to more injuries than others. Even if you weren’t participating in an activity that is more susceptible to injuries, if you suffered any back or neck pain due to your line of work, you may be entitled to workers compensation benefits under California law. Contact a workers comp attorney in Sacramento to learn more about your options.

The time it takes to approve a California workers’ compensation claim can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the complexity of the claim, the availability of medical records and evidence, the cooperation of all parties involved, and any potential disputes or appeals that may arise.

Understanding the truths behind California’s workers’ compensation can clear up many misconceptions. It’s a myth that only physical injuries qualify; mental health issues from work stress are also covered. Regardless of who’s at fault for an injury, California’s “no-fault” system ensures workers can receive benefits. While initial medical treatment might need to be from an employer’s network, workers can later choose their own healthcare provider. Fears of employer retaliation for filing a claim are unfounded, as laws protect employees from such actions. Workers’ compensation isn’t the only recourse; in cases involving third-party negligence, additional legal actions might be available. Securing the right legal representation is crucial for navigating these aspects and maximizing the outcome of your claim.

The statistics on work-related injuries and fatalities in California present a complex and concerning picture. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022), California experienced 504 fatal work injuries, which was an increase from the previous year. The number of work-related fatalities has fluctuated over the years, with a high of 657 in 1993 and a low of 326 in 2010. The leading causes of these fatalities include transportation incidents and exposure to harmful substances or environments, accounting for 53% of all fatal workplace injuries in the state. Other significant causes of fatalities were violence and other injuries by persons or animals, and falls, slips, and trips.

When you suffer an injury at work, you expect the workers’ compensation system to support you through your recovery. However, navigating the complexities of California’s workers’ compensation laws can be overwhelming, especially when your claim is denied. This setback can be discouraging, leaving you uncertain about your future and how to secure the benefits you rightfully deserve. At Mehlhop & Vogt Law Offices, we understand the challenges you’re facing and are here to guide you through the appeals process. Our expertise in workers’ compensation law ensures that your case receives the attention and dedication it requires for a successful outcome.