Ep.91 Best of Work Comp Talk Part 7: Settlements, Trials and More
Release Date: 10/06/2024
Work Comp Talk Podcast
Do you know about second opinions in the California workers’ comp system? In this episode #113 of Work Comp Talk, we break down your rights to second opinions—at court, with a doctor, a lawyer and even at settlement. Learn how getting the right opinion can protect your health, strengthen your claim, and secure a fair outcome. Empower yourself with the facts every injured worker should know.
info_outlineWork Comp Talk Podcast
Are undocumented workers in California protected if they're injured at work? In episode 112 of Work Comp Talk, host Carmen and attorney Bilal Kassem discuss workers' compensation rights for undocumented immigrants, how California labor laws protect all injured workers, and what to do if you're afraid to file a claim. Learn the facts, dispel the myths, and take the first step toward protecting yourself on the job. 🔗 Sponsored by – The Lawyers for Injured Workers
info_outlineWork Comp Talk Podcast
Are you STILL waiting on your workers' comp check? You're not alone. In episode 111 of Work Comp Talk Podcast, we dive into one of the most frustrating realities injured workers in California face—delayed benefits. We break down: 🔹 Why these checks take so long 🔹 What the system isn’t telling you 🔹 Steps you can take if your payment is late Whether you’re currently injured, supporting a loved one, or just trying to understand your rights—this episode is a must-listen. Real talk. Real cases. Real answers. Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe for weekly insights into...
info_outlineWork Comp Talk Podcast
Ever wondered what really happens with your workers’ comp case behind the scenes? In episode 110, we pull back the curtain with Case Manager, Itzel Tabarez from Pacific Workers, the leading Northern CA Workers' Comp Law Firm. We uncover the nonstop work your legal team does to move your case forward. From overlooked case managers to late-night strategies, it’s not just about your attorney—it’s about the whole squad. Listen in for eye-opening insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and why you’re never as alone in the fight as you might feel. #WorkersComp #LegalTeam #CaseManagers...
info_outlineWork Comp Talk Podcast
Getting the medical care you deserve after a workplace injury shouldn’t be a battle—yet thousands of California employees face denials, delays, and endless red tape. In this eye-opening episode, we uncover why insurance companies and employers deny valid workers’ comp claims, from bureaucratic loopholes to disputed diagnoses. Learn how to protect your rights and cut through the system’s hurdles.
info_outlineWork Comp Talk Podcast
In this episode of WorkCompTalk, Carmen Ramirez is joined by Laura Tunon from the intake team to discuss how intake specialists play a vital role in setting the foundation for a successful workers' compensation claim. If you’ve been injured at work and are unsure about the legal process, this episode provides expert advice on how intake specialists help guide you through your claim. What you’ll learn in this episode: How intake specialists help you understand the workers' comp process What to expect when you first reach out to an attorney Common misconceptions injured workers have...
info_outlineWork Comp Talk Podcast
Denied Workers' Compensation? In episode #107 of Work Comp Talk, Carmen Bilal Kassem, discuss the challenges and steps involved when a workers' compensation claim in California is denied. They explain the process of filing a claim, investigating, and the types of claim denials including legal, factual, and medical reasons. They talk about the importance of acting quickly, seeking legal advice, and the lengthy process of contesting denials. This episode provides crucial insights for injured workers navigating the complex workers' compensation system. If you've been denied, know that you have...
info_outlineWork Comp Talk Podcast
If you’re an injured worker in California and just received a delayed status notice on your workers’ compensation claim, this episode is a must-listen. In Episode 106 of Work Comp Talk, Carmen is joined by workers’ compensation attorney Bilal from Pacific Workers, The Lawyers for Injured Workers, to unpack one of the most frustrating parts of the workers’ comp system: the delayed status. What does it mean? Why do insurance companies send it? And most importantly—what are your rights and options when it happens? Whether your injury is a specific incident or a cumulative trauma injury...
info_outlineWork Comp Talk Podcast
In our latest episode of Work Comp Talk, we dive deep into SB555, a groundbreaking proposal presented by Senator Anna Caballero that could drastically change California's workers' compensation system. Join Carmen Ramirez and Bilal Kassem as they unpack the bill's potential impact on injured workers, employers, and insurance companies. SB555 aims to address a critical issue in the workers’ comp system: the outdated permanent disability rates. For over a decade, workers have been stuck with the same rates that don’t account for inflation or rising living costs. This bill proposes annual...
info_outlineWork Comp Talk Podcast
The Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) plays a crucial role in the California workers’ comp system, ensuring that injured workers receive the benefits they deserve when disputes arise. If you’re facing denied benefits, delays in medical treatment, or issues with your settlement, understanding the WCAB process is essential. In our latest Work Comp Talk Podcast episode, host Carmen Ramirez and workers' comp attorney Bilal Kassem break down how the WCAB helps injured workers, what to expect if your case goes before the board, and how having an attorney can make the process...
info_outlineWelcome to Work Comp Talk, the podcast #91 is dedicated to all injured workers in California! 🎙️ In this special "Best of Work Comp Talk" episode, we’re bringing you some of the most insightful discussions from our previous episodes, focusing on a topic that comes up time and time again—settlements in workers’ compensation cases. If you've ever wondered what happens when a workers’ comp settlement offer is on the table and you’re unsure whether to accept it or go to trial, this episode is for you!
Sponsor:
This episode is sponsored by Pacific Workers, a leading law firm for injured workers. Learn more at pacificworkers.com
Stay Connected:
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Work Comp Talk Podcast. Hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest content!
đź”— Resources:
Visit Pacific Workers: https://www.pacificworkers.com/
Visit Pacific Workers YouTube Channel: @pacificworkers
#WorkersCompensation #WorkmansComp #InjuredWorkers #Attorney #InjuryLawyers #PacificWorkers #WorkplaceInjury #IndustrialMedicine #LawAndMedicine #LegalFees
Many injured workers face the difficult decision of whether to accept a settlement offer or take their chances by going to trial. But what are the real risks involved? And why would anyone choose the uncertainty of trial when there’s an offer on the table? Host Carmen and workers’ compensation attorney Bilal Qasim break down these critical questions to help you understand the pros and cons of accepting or rejecting a settlement.
The episode also delves into common misconceptions about what is and isn’t covered in workers’ compensation. From pain and suffering to psychological stress, many injured workers are surprised to learn that certain types of damages they may expect from personal injury lawsuits aren’t available in workers’ comp. We also touch on the changes to vocational rehabilitation benefits and how job retraining programs have been significantly reduced over the years.
Key Discussion Points in This Episode:
What happens when a settlement offer is made, and why might someone choose to reject it?
What are the risks of going to trial? Could you lose everything, or is there still hope for an appeal?
Common reasons why cases are denied and end up in trial, such as medical opinions, legal barriers, or conflicts between you and your employer.
What judges can and cannot do: Debunking the myth that a judge can give you more money than the insurance company offers—learn about the true limitations in workers’ comp cases.
The emotional aspect of going to trial: Why some injured workers feel the need to "fight for more," even when the outcome is uncertain.
Appeals process: What happens if you go to trial and lose—can you appeal the decision?
Why people often feel they’re not compensated enough, even after a "successful" settlement.
Whether you're just starting your claim or seeking ways to improve your current situation, this episode offers essential insights. Don't miss out on this comprehensive guide to navigating the workers' comp system.
Join the Conversation!
Have a question about workers' compensation settlements? Drop it in the comments below, and we’ll cover it in future episodes. We’re here to provide injured workers with the knowledge and support they need to make informed decisions.
Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more episodes of Work Comp Talk, and check out our previous podcasts for in-depth discussions on workers’ compensation topics that matter most to you. Your feedback helps us create content that truly serves injured workers across California. Thank you for listening!
Chapters:
00:00 WCT Ep 91 - BEST OF - Part 7
01:02 Should You Accept a Workers Comp Settlement Offer?
06:20 What is NOT Covered in Workers Comp?