TESTIMONIALS
Hear what Our Clients Have to Say
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"Experienced the Utmost Professionalism"They are well organized, very knowledgeable of the workers' compensation industry, and have had an excellent reputation for many years.- Nadine
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"They Make You Feel Like Family"Ben Feld was a terrific attorney as he guided me through the disability process. Most importantly, he would return my calls or my texts very quickly. I cannot recommend GG&F more highly. They make you feel like family.- Kellie D.
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"It Was a Miracle! I Am So Thankful and Grateful!"Mr. Feld got me my SSDI in 2 month on contingency, which was greatly appreciated! That was 2 years faster than the nightmares that everyone hears about. I was crying! It was a miracle! I am so thankful and grateful!!! Thank you so much Benjamin Feld!!!- Kathy G.
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"Very Professional And Very Helpful"All staff members are very professional and very helpful. They are the best. Thank you very much for all your help.- Daniel B
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"Very Professional"Very professional. Kept me updated throughout the process. Highly recommended!- John D.
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"Informative, Helpful, And Patient"My overall experience with this firm has been outstanding. From the very beginning, Ben was incredibly informative, helpful, and patient with me and my situation. He, and the rest of the team, helped to make a stressful and long process so much easier. Inc- Kimberly S.
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"Excellent Services"Excellent services from the staff to the lawyers! Thank you for helping me!- Imelda P.
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"Truly Care About Their Clients"All amazing attorneys, who truly care about their clients! It’s great to have a law firm that you can count on for so many different kinds of cases! I recommend them 100%!- Sara A
Essential Steps for Filing Your Claim
Filing for workers' compensation in California involves several key steps to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention
If you’re injured at work, get medical help immediately, especially in an emergency. Inform the doctor that your injury is work-related so they can document it properly. Proper medical records are crucial for your claim.
Step 2: Notify Your Employer
Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible, preferably within 30 days. Failing to notify them in time may result in losing your right to workers’ compensation benefits.
Step 3: Obtain a Workers' Compensation Claim Form (DWC-1)
Your employer must give you a DWC-1 form within one working day after learning about your injury. If they don’t, you can download it from the California Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) website.
Step 4: Complete and Submit the DWC-1 Form
Fill out the employee section of the form with details about your injury and return it to your employer. They will complete their section and send it to their workers' compensation insurance provider. This officially starts the claims process.
Step 5: Employer’s Response & Insurance Investigation
The insurance company must approve up to $10,000 in medical treatment while investigating your claim. They have 90 days to either accept or deny it. If approved, benefits will be provided, but if denied, you may need to appeal.
Step 6: Follow Up on Your Claim
If your claim is approved, you’ll receive medical treatment and possibly disability benefits. If denied, you have the right to appeal the decision through the California Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB).
Step 7: Consult a Workers' Compensation Attorney (If Necessary)
If your claim is denied or if you face difficulties receiving benefits, consider speaking with a workers’ compensation attorney. They can help you navigate appeals and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
Workers Compensation Payments
Once the claim is accepted and you’ve been awarded benefits, payments will continue until your condition improves and you’re ready to return to work, or until the benefits on your claim have been exhausted. If treatment for your injury is ongoing, payment of compensation will continue as well. If treatment extends beyond one year and your condition still prevents you from working, it’s possible that you could be awarded permanent disability benefits. This means that you’ll receive benefits for the rest of your life instead of until your condition improves.
Once you’ve been awarded benefits, it’s important to keep records of your medical treatment and disability. This will make it easier for your attorney if they need to file a petition for future claims. It can also show that you’re still disabled and unable to work, even though your condition has improved somewhat.
Returning To Work
When you’re ready to return to work, your attorney can help negotiate with employers on issues such as hours, pay rate, and job location. If possible, they may also help find a position suitable for your injury restrictions. In addition, if you become injured again on the job, workers’ compensation could provide benefits while you recover from this new injury.