What California Law Says About Workers’ Compensation for Agricultural Workers

What California Law Says About Workers’ Compensation for Agricultural Workers

If you have been hurt or suffered an illness on the job, your first step should always be to contact a worker’s compensation lawyer serving San Jose to discuss your claim. Under California law, agricultural workers are entitled to workers’ compensation insurance

coverage. But California workers’ compensation law is complex, and only an experienced accident and injury attorney can accurately evaluate your claim and make sure your legal rights are protected throughout the process. This overview will help you better understand protections for agricultural workers.

Employer Requirements

All California employers are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance for workers, including undocumented workers. California law mandates that the name of the employer’s insurer or claims administrator be posted at the site of employment. Employers must also post information about accessing benefits for employees’ use. Unfortunately, not all farm labor employers purchase the requisite insurance. However, a workers’ compensation lawyer can still help some workers seek benefits from the Uninsured Employers Trust Fund if their employer is uninsured.

Basic Benefits

Workers’ compensation insurance covers all job-related illnesses and injuries, including accidents with farm equipment, physical pain, respiratory illnesses, slips and falls, and disabilities. Insurance benefits extend to medical treatment, surgery, physical therapy, hospitalization, and medications. Workers will also receive at least partial payment for the time when they cannot work. Insurance compensates workers who are permanently disabled and provides support for dependent families.

Necessary Proof

To file a workers’ compensation claim, an employee must notify the employer within 30 days of learning about a work-related injury or occupational illness. An employee will also need to show that he or she is legitimately employed by the named employer. Employees must prove that all health care provider instructions have been followed. Finally, an employee will need to prove the degree of disability. A workers’ compensation attorney can help guide you through the process to ensure that all paperwork is properly filed and that you get the maximum compensation to which you are entitled under California law.