Employee injuries are unfortunately common in workplaces across California. Whether it’s a slip on a wet floor, a fall from scaffolding, or an injury caused by malfunctioning equipment, these incidents can leave workers dealing with physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty. Understanding your legal rights after an employee injury is critical to protecting your health, your income, and your future.
At KAASS LAW, our experienced attorneys help injured workers explore their legal options and pursue the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been hurt at work, don’t wait—knowing what steps to take can make all the difference.
Immediate Steps After an Employee Injury
The most important action you can take after any workplace injury is to report it immediately to your supervisor or manager. Even if the injury seems minor at first, symptoms can develop or worsen over time. By reporting right away, you start a paper trail that can support a future claim.
After notifying your employer, seek medical attention. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need emergency care or a follow-up appointment. Make sure to keep records of all medical visits, diagnoses, prescriptions, and treatments.
Common Causes of Employee Injuries
In our work with injured workers throughout Los Angeles and beyond, we’ve seen a wide variety of incidents leading to injury claims. Some of the most common include:
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Slips, trips, and falls
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Overexertion or repetitive strain
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Vehicle accidents during work hours
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Falling objects on construction sites
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Faulty equipment or machinery
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Exposure to toxic chemicals
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Inadequate training or supervision
Whether you work in an office, warehouse, or on a film set, your employer is responsible for maintaining a safe working environment.
When Workers’ Compensation Isn’t Enough
California law generally requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which provides coverage for medical expenses and partial wage replacement. However, there are limitations. Workers’ compensation typically doesn’t cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering or emotional distress.
That’s where third-party claims come in. If someone other than your employer—such as a subcontractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer—played a role in your injury, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit in addition to your workers’ comp claim.
Learn more about your options in our guide to third-party work injury claims in California.
Proving Liability in an Employee Injury Case
To build a strong legal claim, you must prove that another party was negligent and that their actions (or failure to act) directly led to your injury. Common examples include:
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A building owner who failed to fix known hazards
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A driver who hit you while you were making deliveries
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A manufacturer who sold defective equipment
Collecting evidence is key. This may include photos from the scene, eyewitness statements, accident reports, surveillance footage, and your medical records. An attorney can help gather and preserve this evidence while you focus on recovery.
How an Attorney Can Help
Navigating the legal process after a workplace injury can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with physical recovery and medical bills. At KAASS LAW, our Glendale personal injury attorneys understand how to handle complex employee injury cases, including those involving multiple liable parties.
Our legal team can help you:
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Determine whether you have a valid third-party claim
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File a personal injury lawsuit
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Negotiate with insurance companies
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Calculate the full value of your damages
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Fight for a fair settlement or represent yourself in court
If you have questions about your legal rights, don’t hesitate to contact our team for a free consultation.
Employee Injury Lawsuits vs. Workers’ Comp Claims
While both workers’ compensation and personal injury lawsuits provide financial relief, they differ in several important ways:
| Aspect | Workers’ Comp | Personal Injury Lawsuit |
|---|---|---|
| Fault Required? | No | Yes – must prove negligence |
| Types of Compensation | Medical bills, partial wages | Medical, lost wages, pain & suffering |
| Suing Employer? | Not allowed in most cases | May sue a third party (not the employer) |
| Timeline for Filing | Within 30 days of injury (notify employer) | Within 2 years of the incident |
Knowing which path is appropriate can save you time and help maximize your compensation.
For more general information about workplace safety standards and employee rights, you can visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website.
Don’t Wait – Speak to a Lawyer Today
Every injury case is unique, and acting quickly can be crucial. Waiting too long to report your injury or explore your legal options could impact your ability to file a claim. Our attorneys at KAASS LAW are here to provide the legal guidance you need.
We’ve helped numerous employees in California obtain compensation beyond what workers’ compensation offers, especially in cases involving third-party negligence.
If you or someone you love has suffered an employee injury, contact our office today at 310.943.1171 or visit our page on California workplace injury claims for more information.