The Workers' Compensation system was developed to cover a range of work-related injures and illnesses. Below is a list of representative accidents and health hazards the program encompasses. If you're not sure if you are covered, it's important to talk with an attorney click here.
Injuries and Illnesses Covered
Back and neck
Injuries from lifting or moving heavy objects, or other activities during the course of performing work activities. Back and neck injuries also may be caused by cumulative trauma (see below).
Cumulative trauma
Injuries caused by repetitive physical trauma such as carpal tunnel syndrome or other injuries from prolonged standing, lifting or other work activities.
Occupational exposure
Injuries such as hearing loss, allergic reaction, asthma, lung disease and cancer caused or aggravated by workplace conditions, including exposure to toxins such as gases, fluids, chemicals and molds.
Heart attack and stroke
Heart disease, hypertension or conditions that lead to strokes and other medical problems caused or aggravated by the job. For example, this sometimes occur with weight gain subsequent to a physical injury.
Assault
Injuries from being struck, shot or physically attacked by co-workers or customers, or as the victim of a violent crime at work.
Auto accident
Injuries occurring while driving between work sites, in route to training or work-related meetings, or performing work-related errands. Injuries caused by accidents during regular commuting generally are not covered, although there are multiple exceptions.
Legs
Conditions caused or aggravated by prolonged standing at work, such as phlebitis, knee or hip problems or varicose veins.
Communicable diseases
Diseases such as AIDS, hepatitis, TB or valley fever, if it can be proven that the infectious source was work-related.
Slip, trip and fall
Injuries caused by falling on work premises, including sidewalks, floors, stairways or in parking lots.
Death
When work conditions cause or contribute to the cause of death by accidental injury, exposure or illness, including heart attack or stroke (as above), a worker's dependents may qualify for compensation.
Psychiatric injuries
Some psychiatric injuries due to stress may not qualify for Workers' Compensation. For psychiatric injuries due to stress occurring after July 16, 1993, the law requires that, with few exceptions, you must prove your job was the "predominant" cause of the injury. Injuries from stress due to lawful and good faith personnel actions do not qualify for Workers' Comp. Although there are some exceptions, you may not qualify for benefits unless you worked for your employer at least six months, or if you wait to report an injury until after being notified of job termination.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This web site is for informational purposes only.
If you are seeking legal advice or representation, please contact us at 213 739-7000. Pursuant to Labor Code Section 5432(a), making a false or fraudulent workers' compensation claim is a felony subject to up to 5 years in prison
or a fine of up to $50,000 or double the value of the fraud, whichever is greater, or by both imprisonment and fine.
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