If you experience an on-the-job injury, the first step for many is to file a workers’ compensation claim. These benefits are provided to injured workers to help cover the cost of treatment and time away from work.
Unfortunately, proving your injury is work-related can be challenging, especially if you are dealing with injuries caused by repetitive motion or strain.
In California, a condition is recognized as a workplace injury if the nature of the job was a contributing cause to it. It is possible to protect your rights to compensation if you know how to prove your job caused or contributed to your injury.
Understand contributing causes
According to the California Code of Regulations, an employer must deem an injury work-related if the work environment or job contributes to the injury or aggravates a pre-existing condition. This applies to repetitive strain injuries, which may build up during work and personal activities.
A job that involves typing on a keyboard, operating vibrating machines or lifting with your back, for example, can all contribute to or aggravate physical stress conditions.
Collect the necessary evidence
Some employers will attempt to deny a workers’ compensation claim if you cannot produce evidence showing the condition was caused by your job. Having a doctor diagnose your condition and connect it to your work tasks can help with this. It may also be helpful to maintain records of your time spent doing the action you are claiming benefits for.
Protecting your right to workers’ compensation
If you experience a work-related injury, you deserve workers’ compensation. This is true even if your job is not the only contributing factor to the condition. Knowing your legal rights and what evidence can help prove your claim will ensure you get the financial compensation you deserve.