What Injured Workers Should Know About the Utilization Review Process in California
When an employee is injured at work, the California workers’ compensation system provides medical benefits to help with recovery and treatment. However, not all medical treatments requested by your doctor are automatically approved. In California, the Utilization Review (UR) process is used to determine whether the treatment prescribed for your work-related injury is medically necessary and eligible […]
Understanding the Role of Functional Capacity Evaluations in Workers’ Compensation Cases
When an employee suffers a work-related injury, determining the extent of the injury and its impact on their ability to perform job tasks is crucial for their recovery and workers’ compensation benefits. One of the key tools used in this process is the Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE). The FCE plays an important role in assessing an […]
How to Navigate Workers’ Compensation When Dealing with Multiple Employers
In California, workers’ compensation laws are designed to provide medical care and wage replacement to employees injured on the job. However, the process can become more complex when an individual works for multiple employers, whether full-time, part-time, or on a contractual basis. Injuries in these situations may raise questions about which employer is responsible, how […]
Can You Reopen a Closed Workers’ Compensation Case in California?
In California, once a workers’ compensation claim is settled and closed, it may seem like the case is finalized and cannot be revisited. However, under certain circumstances, an injured worker may have the right to reopen a closed workers’ compensation case. This is particularly important if your medical condition worsens, new evidence comes to light, or there […]
Understanding Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) in California Workers’ Compensation
Introduction Workers’ compensation in California is designed to provide financial and medical support to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. One of the key milestones in any workers’ compensation case is the concept of Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). Understanding MMI is essential for injured workers, as it can impact both the continuation of benefits and […]
What to Do If Your Workers’ Compensation Doctor Is Uncooperative
When you’ve been injured at work, having a supportive and knowledgeable workers’ compensation doctor is crucial for your recovery and the success of your workers’ compensation claim. In California, your workers’ compensation doctor plays a key role in diagnosing your injury, prescribing treatment, and determining your work restrictions. The doctor’s medical reports directly impact your […]
Can You Receive Workers’ Compensation for Stress-Related Injuries in California?
Work-related injuries are often thought of as physical, such as sprains, fractures, or other bodily harm. However, mental and emotional injuries, including stress-related conditions, are just as real and can have significant impacts on a worker’s health and ability to perform their job. In California, the workers’ compensation system does provide coverage for stress-related injuries, but […]
Understanding the Light Duty Work Program in California Workers’ Compensation Cases
In California, when a worker is injured on the job, the workers’ compensation system is in place to provide medical care and wage replacement benefits. While some injuries prevent employees from working at all, others may only partially limit their ability to perform their usual duties. This is where the Light Duty Work Program comes into play. […]
Your Guide to Workers’ Compensation Law in Southern California
Introduction Laguna Law Firm is proud to serve injured workers throughout Southern California. We specialize in handling workers’ compensation claims, ensuring that our clients receive the medical care, wage replacement, and benefits they deserve. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to helping injured workers navigate the often complex and confusing world of workers’ compensation law. […]
The Importance of Keeping a Pain Journal During Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
When you file a workers’ compensation claim after a work-related injury, your medical condition and the severity of your pain play a critical role in determining the benefits you will receive. However, pain is often subjective, difficult to quantify, and can vary from day to day. Because of this, proving the impact of your injury […]