San Pablo Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

California Workers’ Compensation: What You Need to Know

California’s workers’ compensation system is meant to provide fast, no-fault benefits to employees who are injured on the job or develop work-related medical conditions. These benefits can cover your medical bills, replace a portion of your lost wages, and offer support if you’re left with a long-term or permanent impairment.

You do not need to prove anyone was “at fault” to qualify for workers’ comp. If your injury or illness is job-related and you meet the reporting requirements, you’re likely entitled to benefits.

Benefits you may be entitled to include:

• Medical treatment for your injury or condition, including surgeries, physical therapy, prescriptions, and mileage reimbursement
• Temporary disability payments if your injury prevents you from working during recovery
• Permanent disability compensation if you suffer lasting or lifelong impairments
• Supplemental job displacement vouchers if you can’t return to your prior role and need retraining
• Death benefits paid to family members of workers who die as a result of job-related injuries or illnesses

Work Injuries We Handle

At Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, we represent employees across a wide range of industries in San Pablo and Contra Costa County. Our clients come from sectors that are vital to the local economy, including healthcare, education, logistics, public service, and more. We understand the unique risks associated with these professions and are equipped to handle the complexities of each case.​

Industries We Serve:

• Healthcare and Elder Care: Employees at facilities such as West County Health Center, San Pablo Healthcare and Wellness Center, and Creekside Health Care Center face risks like patient handling injuries, exposure to illnesses, and repetitive strain injuries.​
• Education: Staff and faculty at Contra Costa College and within the West Contra Costa Unified School District may encounter injuries from slips, falls, or repetitive tasks.​
• Retail and Food Service: Workers at establishments like FoodMaxx, Las Montañas Supermarket, and local restaurants often deal with hazards such as slippery floors, heavy lifting, and repetitive motions.​
• Public Service and Government: Employees of the City of San Pablo and other municipal departments may experience injuries related to fieldwork, equipment operation, or administrative tasks.​
• Casino and Hospitality: Staff at Casino San Pablo and nearby hospitality venues can be exposed to risks ranging from repetitive stress injuries to incidents involving patrons.​

Common Injuries We Handle:

• Traumatic Physical Injuries: Including fractures, sprains, and head injuries resulting from falls, equipment accidents, or vehicle incidents.​
• Repetitive Motion Injuries: Such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and back strain from repetitive tasks or prolonged standing.​
• Occupational Illnesses: Including respiratory issues, skin conditions, or illnesses due to exposure to hazardous substances.​
• Mental Health Conditions: Such as stress, anxiety, or PTSD resulting from workplace incidents or environments.​
• Aggravation of Pre-Existing Conditions: Where work activities exacerbate existing health issues.​
• Catastrophic or Fatal Injuries: Including severe injuries requiring long-term care or resulting in death.​

Denied Claims, Delayed Benefits & Low Settlement Offers? We Can Help.

Although California law is supposed to protect injured workers, the system often favors employers and insurance companies. Legitimate claims can be denied. Medical treatment can be delayed or denied. Settlement offers can fall far short of what you truly need.

At Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, we’re proud to be on the side of real people—not the powerful interests. We help workers who are struggling with:

• Claims that have been denied or disputed
• Medical care that’s been delayed or outright refused
• Disability payments that don’t match the severity of the injury
• Settlement offers that undervalue future care or long-term impact

If you’re dealing with any of these problems, we can step in, investigate the issue, and advocate for your full rights under the law.

Can I Also File a Personal Injury Claim After a Work Accident?

In most situations, workers’ compensation is your only legal remedy for a job-related injury. But there are important exceptions. You may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit—in addition to your workers’ comp claim—if someone other than your employer caused your injury. This could include:

• A negligent contractor or subcontractor
• A defective machine or piece of equipment
• A car crash while driving for work caused by another driver

Because we also handle personal injury cases, we can evaluate your situation and pursue all legal options available to maximize your recovery.

Why Choose Us?

Since 1994, we’ve earned a reputation for excellence in workers’ compensation law. But what truly sets us apart is our team-based, client-first approach.

• Over $340 million recovered for injured workers and their families
• Thousands of clients helped across Northern California
• Award-winning attorneys with over 130 years of combined experience
• 98% success rate in resolved cases
• Dedicated legal teams for every client—including an attorney, a Case Manager, and an Assistant Case Manager
• No legal fees unless we win; you only pay if we recover benefits on your behalf

We know that navigating the workers’ compensation system can be stressful, especially while trying to heal. Our job is to ease that burden, fight for every dollar you’re owed, and make sure you’re treated with dignity and respect at every stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Lawyer to File for Workers’ Compensation?

Technically, no—but many claims are delayed, undervalued, or denied without legal representation. An experienced attorney can help make sure your claim is filed correctly, deadlines are met, and your rights are protected from day one.

What Happens if My Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied?

You still have options. We can help you file an appeal with the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board, build supporting evidence, and represent you at all hearings. Don’t give up on your claim—many denials can be successfully challenged.

How Long Do I Have to Report My Injury?

In California, you must report a work injury to your employer within 30 days, and you typically have one year to file a formal claim. It’s important to act quickly—waiting too long could jeopardize your eligibility for benefits.

What Is My Workers’ Compensation Case Worth?

That depends on factors like your medical condition, time off work, future care needs, and whether you have any lasting impairments. We’ll assess all aspects of your case to pursue the maximum benefits available under the law.

Can I Afford to Hire a Workers’ Comp Attorney?

Yes. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and no attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. You have nothing to lose—and potentially everything to gain—by speaking with our team.

Get a Free Consultation Today. Call (888) 740-6434.

If you or a loved one has been injured at work, now is the time to enlist the help of a lawyer. At Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, our San Pablo workers’ compensation attorneys have helped thousands of clients and are ready to help you fight for the benefits you deserve. 

Call us at (888) 740-6434 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.