Workplace injuries can be devastating and life-changing, especially when they leave you partially or totally paralyzed. Workers’ compensation claims for “Van Nuys paraplegia and quadriplegia workers’ compensation injuries” follow a slightly different process than those for less severe injuries.
While you focus on your recovery, the workers’ compensation attorneys at Glauber Berenson Vego could handle your claim with professionalism and expertise. We know how important it is for paralyzed victims to get the level of support they need and are determined to secure the best possible result in your case.
While paraplegia and quadriplegia are rare workplace injuries, they can result from many types of incidents. The most common accidents that cause paraplegia or quadriplegia include:
To formally initiate the workers’ compensation process, individuals in Van Nuys with paraplegia and quadriplegia injuries must file a DWC-1 Form as soon as possible after the accident.
After this, the worker must see an approved provider to confirm the paraplegia or quadriplegia diagnosis. That doctor will then determine if the paraplegia or quadriplegia is “Permanent & Stationary” or still improving. When the worker reaches “Maximum Medical Improvement” (or MMI), the doctor will then assign a permanent disability rating. This will determine what benefits the person is able to receive.
Paraplegia and quadriplegia injuries often allow workers in Van Nuys to receive permanent disability (PD) and lifetime workers’ compensation benefits.
PD benefits are paid when the worker is not expected to fully recover from their injuries and is unable to return to any form of substantial employment. They are calculated based on how severe the disability is, the worker’s pre-injury earnings, and the doctor’s impairment rating. Workers receive these payments for life.
The state’s workers’ compensation system also provides lifetime benefits, which include the following:
If the worker retains some ability to work in other roles, they may also receive vocational rehabilitation to train them in other job skills.
An attorney could help determine what benefits you may be eligible for and seek maximum compensation.
When you hire a workers’ compensation lawyer, they can ensure that all of your documentation is in order.
They could collect evidence like:
Collecting this evidence allows your Van Nuys attorney to analyze your paraplegia and quadriplegia injury claim thoroughly and ensures you apply for the maximum amount of workers’ compensation benefits available to you.
After submitting the appropriate paperwork, a workers’ compensation lawyer could monitor your claim’s progress to make sure administrative errors do not delay payments.
If an insurer tries to argue about the medical necessity of your treatments, your attorney could negotiate with them to get the coverage you need.
If your claim is outright denied, they could dispute the decision with the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board and advocate for your rights.
Van Nuys paraplegia and quadriplegia workers’ compensation injuries can complicate claims. If you have become paralyzed due to a workplace injury, seek legal guidance immediately.
The lawyers at Glauber Berenson Vego could ensure you pursue every avenue of relief available to you. Schedule your free initial consultation today.
