Oakland Auto Workers' Compensation Attorney
Filing an Auto Workers Comp Claim
Auto workers and shop mechanics can be required to place themselves in precarious situations as part of their regular job functions, such as standing beneath a lifted vehicle to perform an inspection or repair. Despite employers knowing the latent dangers of auto shop work, injured employees might not get the fair treatment they deserve when an accident or injury does occur. Without a total understanding of workers’ compensation claims and insurance, an auto worker’s claim could be denied or delayed when they need help more than ever.
Please do not hesitate to contact us the moment you need help filing a claim or your claim has been denied.
At Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, auto workers who have been injured on-the-job can find trustworthy and compassionate legal guidance and representation from our workers’ comp lawyers. With more than 130 years of combined experience under our belts, we are proud to be a prominent workers’ compensation law firm in the greater Bay Area.
How Our Team Can Help You
- Tens of Millions Recovered
- 130+ Years of Experience
- Free, No-Obligation Consultation
- Award-Winning Representation
Auto Shops Need to Provide Safe Environments
As discussed, an auto shop or mechanic shop may have certain unique dangers to the site. This does not mean that employers or parent companies can slack on safety regulations. Oppositely, it would imply that safety must always be the number one priority to minimize the chances of an accident occurring.
An auto shop worker might be injured due to:
- Falling parts hung or positioned above
- Lifting heavy equipment repeatedly
- Tripping over loose tools
- Illness linked to frequent chemical exposure
If any of these injuries, or one not mentioned, occurs, the auto worker should be provided some sort of workers’ compensation, assuming the injury was work-related or happened at the worksite. Eager to save money, a dishonest insurance company might reject any initial filing in hopes that the worker does not file an appeal in response. Do not forget your rights – always explore your options with a professional auto worker injury lawyer when seeking workers’ compensation.
Liability Should Not Be a Factor
In a personal injury claim, the plaintiff has to prove that the defendant was liable for the accident. In a workers’ compensation claim, this is not the case. If you were hurt while working in an auto shop, even if you were the only one around and you think it was your fault, you are not automatically disqualified from receiving workers’ compensation. If your employer has told you otherwise, it is untrue and our auto worker injury attorneys should be notified right away.
We want to help you recover comfortably – call (888) 740-6434 for a free consultation.
We have Helped OVER 8,000 CLIENTS aND WE CAN HELP YOU TOO!
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They didn't give up on me.
“Pacific Workers went to bat for me. Was I an easy person to get along with, no but they didn’t give up on me.”
David W.
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Thank you for being so kind!
“I started my fight against my company's workers comp and after talking to Almarie for the first time I already felt a lot of weight off my shoulders.”
Jazzie D. Daly City, CA
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I'm forever grateful & thankful to all!
“I especially want to thank Mr. Jason Insdorf, who worked in attaining a settlement I never expected.”
L.S. Union City, CA
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They took care of me!
“Bilal worked on my case and he was very professional, friendly, and kind to me. I was so nervous about my deposition and he made me feel very comfortable and less stressed about the whole situation.”
Gabi O. Sacramento, CA
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The most down to earth team I have ever met!
“They have strong communication and I was respected throughout the whole process. They had never given up on me!”
Nekealla C. Tracy, CA
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I got a compensation package that I was very happy with!
“My attorney provided me with a very smooth experience, patiently answered all my questions, and worked hard to represent my best interests.”
Dro L. Redwood City, CA
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I would highly recommend PWC!
“PWC's staff is knowledgeable and informative when it comes to answering your questions and ensuring you're well informed during the process.”
Patrick P.
Proudly Serving Northern California
Workers' Comp FAQ
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Do independent contractors get workers’ compensation in California?
No, most independent contractors are not covered by workers’ compensation insurance that is provided by their employer. The law does not require most employers to offer this sort of employment benefit to independent contractors. To get workers’ comp as an independent contractor, you will usually have to purchase a policy on your own.
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Am I Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?
In California, all employees are eligible for workers’ compensation with very few exceptions. If you are classified as an “employee” (rather than an “independent contractor”), you are eligible to receive benefits. This is true regardless of how many employees your employer has, how many hours you work, how much you make, whether you work part-time or full-time, or whether you are a seasonal worker. Additionally, undocumented workers are also eligible for workers’ compensation granted they meet all other eligibility requirements. In contrast, independent contractors and certain other workers, including some volunteers, household workers who are employed by a family member, and others, are not able to file for workers’ compensation benefits.
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My Employer Said That I’m an Independent Contractor, Not a Regular Employee, so I Can’t Get Benefits. Is This True?
You’re not necessarily an independent contractor by law if the nature of your job doesn’t fit the description, an attorney may help analyze your situation and guide you in this matter. There are high chances of contractors being eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, so it’s always worth trying.
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Can't I Just File for Workers' Compensation on My Own?
Filing for workers' compensation on your own increases the chances that your claim will be denied. One small misstep can prevent you from obtaining the compensation you need for your injuries. In addition, the process is usually complex and tedious, especially for someone with no workers' compensation law experience. It is extremely advantageous that you seek reliable and experienced legal guidance for your claim.
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What is the California 90-day rule for workers’ compensation?
After you inform your employer about your workplace accident, they need to tell the insurance company as soon as possible, usually within the same workday. Then, the claim administrator has 90 days to accept or deny your claim, with medical benefits being provided throughout that time. If there is no response within 90 days, then your claim ends in your favor by default.
