The workers’ compensation system is designed for the worker who is injured or becomes ill due to his or her job. It works like this: when a worker is hurt at the job, rather than filing a lawsuit, the worker may file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. To win a claim in southern California, you really should have the help of an experienced Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney. A good workers’ comp lawyer knows the ins and outs of the system, can help you file your claim, and can advocate on your behalf if your claim is disputed.
It also helps for your claim to be real, that is, not fraudulent. Worker’s compensation is for those who are disabled and can’t work – not for anyone else. In August, a beauty pageant contestant from Riverside learned that lesson the hard way. Shawna Lynn Palmer was arrested on three felony counts of defrauding an insurance company. She claimed back in March that she had suffered an injury to a foot while working at a supermarket. Palmer additionally claimed that she could not place any weight on the foot or wear any regular shoe on it. Her doctor provided her with an orthopedic shoe and crutches. The doctor also ordered her to refrain from working and to elevate the foot as much as possible. While collecting workers’ compensation, the 22-year-old took part in at least two beauty pageants where she publicly walked in high heels without any signs of discomfort. Video of Palmer participating in this year’s Miss Toyota Long Beach Grand Prix Beauty Pageant was posted on YouTube. If convicted, the beauty pageant hopeful faces up to a year in county jail, three years of probation, and restitution of $24,000.
For those who’ve been genuinely injured at work, an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can assess your situation, provide sound legal advice, and guide you through the application process. The help of a good workers’ comp lawyer is imperative to guarantee that your rights are protected. Just remember that workers’ compensation is for disabled people only. If you’ve been injured at work in southern California, get help and advice from an experienced Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney immediately.