Suffered an Injury While Working in Agriculture in California?
Agricultural workers are an important part of how we supply food throughout our country by maintaining the livestock and plants which end up on our plates and stomachs. However, they are also exposed to a wide variety of dangers on the job. In fact, it is one of the most hazardous jobs in the U.S., which involves working long hours, using heavy machinery, and being exposed to pesticides and inclement weather. These conditions often lead to injury, illness, and even death.
At Gomez-Garcia Law, Inc., our Bakersfield workers' compensation attorneys are committed to helping injured agricultural workers obtain benefits to pay for medical expenses and lost wages. Whether you are a full-time or seasonal worker, you have rights just like any other employee in the job market. Let us review your case, determine all of your legal options, and help you recover from injury.
Workers' Compensation for Agricultural Workers
In California, employees in the agricultural industry are entitled to the same workers' compensation benefits as other eligible workers. Additionally, the laws also cover undocumented workers. At each job site, the name of the employer's insurance provider needs to be listed, as well as instructions on filing a workers' compensation claim.
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for employers to not carry such insurance, despite being legally required to do so. If this is the case, injured agriculture workers could apply for benefits under the Uninsured Employers Benefits Trust Fund. Nevertheless, obtaining benefits can be an arduous task.
Furthermore, the majority of the workers in the agricultural industry are undocumented immigrants. Although we've mentioned that undocumented workers are covered by state law, many still are afraid to inform their employers of an injury because it may result in retaliation or even deportation. Hence, many of these workers continue to work without seeking medical treatment or go into debt to pay for their medical expenses out of pocket.
Our experienced legal team understands the dangers and struggles agricultural workers have to face on a daily basis. Throughout the legal process, we can protect your rights and best interests in order to obtain the benefits you deserve.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today!
If you are worried about having the money to pay for ongoing medical care and the household bills, seeking legal representation may be out of the question. Fortunately, our Bakersfield workers' compensation lawyers offer our services on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not have to pay us anything unless we obtain your entitled settlement. If we lose, you still don't have to pay us. Do not hesitate to get started on your claim immediately.
Contact us and discuss your case with our legal team today.