Jan 17, 2014
The Veen Firm proudly partners with the San Francisco Building and Construction Trades Council to provide legal help for Bay Area workers in the trades. Many complicated legal issues affect workers in our community. The Veen Firm is passionate about providing the education and resources needed to protect Bay Area workers. Real people submit questions, and the attorneys at The Veen Firm respond directly. This month’s expertise is provided by Anthony Label. Legal questions from trade workers answered by [nap_names id=”FIRM-NAME-1″] I had a life-altering injury at work. I broke my back in a forklift accident and am not sure when I will be able to work again. Do I need to file a lawsuit or can I just rely on workers compensation? -P.S., San Francisco Do not rely solely on Workers’ Compensation. Although you are entitled and should file to receive Workers’ Compensation benefits, they only compensate a fraction of your economic losses. You should immediately consult with a civil personal injury attorney before the applicable time limit runs out to determine if there are any additional avenues of recovery against a “third party,” meaning someone other than your employer who may have caused your injury. Also, do not overlook other benefits that may be available to you, including Social Security disability, State Disability and/or a civil lawsuit. Your losses may be life-altering and career-ending, so you need to explore all avenues to protect yourself and your family. -Anthony L. Label, Trial Team Leader; The Veen Firm, San Francisco, CA (Reposted from the San Francisco Building & Construction Trades Council.)
