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Workers' Compensation for Crush Injuries in California
If you've suffered a crush injury at work in California, you have the right to workers' compensation benefits that cover your medical care and lost wages. It doesn’t matter who caused the accident.
Crush injuries are some of the most serious injuries a worker can suffer. They often require multiple surgeries, long hospital stays, and months or years of recovery. If this happened to you in 2026, our San Benito County workers' comp lawyer can help you file your claim and fight for the full benefits you deserve. At Raul Martinez Injury Law Firm, we'll start working on your case right away.
What Counts as a Crush Injury Under California Workers' Comp Law?
A crush injury happens when a heavy object presses down on part of the body with enough force to damage bones, muscles, nerves, or organs. These injuries are common on construction sites, in warehouses, and in factories where heavy machinery, forklifts, or falling materials are part of daily work.
Crush injuries often affect the hands, feet, arms, legs, or torso. In severe cases, they can lead to amputation or long-term nerve damage. Because these injuries are so serious, they usually require more medical treatment and a longer recovery time than other workplace injuries.
Am I Eligible for Workers' Compensation After a Crush Injury?
Under California Labor Code Section 3600, most employees are eligible for workers' compensation benefits if they're injured while performing their job duties. This is true even if you made a mistake or the accident was partly your fault. California follows a no-fault system, which means you don't need to prove your employer did something wrong to receive benefits.
There are a few exceptions. If you were injured while committing a crime, while intoxicated, or while intentionally hurting yourself, your claim could be denied. Outside of these situations, most crush injuries suffered on the job qualify for benefits.
What Should You Do Right After a Crush Injury to Protect Your Workers’ Comp Claim?
Getting the right care and documentation early can make a big difference in your claim. Steps you should take include:
- Seek medical treatment immediately, even if the injury doesn't seem severe at first
- Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible
- Write down how the accident happened while it's still fresh in your memory
- Take photos of the accident scene and your injuries if you're able to
- Keep copies of all medical records and bills related to the injury
Taking these steps early can help protect your claim if your employer or their insurance company later questions what happened.
How Long Do You Have to File a Workers' Comp Claim in California?
California Labor Code Section 5405 generally gives injured workers one year from the date of injury to file a workers' compensation claim. This deadline is important. If you miss it, you could lose your right to benefits entirely, even if your injury is severe and clearly happened at work.
Some crush injuries cause symptoms that get worse over time, like nerve damage that doesn't fully show up until weeks later. If this happens to you, it's still important to report the injury and start your claim as soon as you notice a problem, rather than waiting to see if it improves on its own.
What Workers’ Comp Benefits Can You Receive for a Crush Injury?
Workers' compensation benefits are designed to cover the real costs of a workplace injury. Depending on the severity of your crush injury, you may be entitled to several types of support.
Medical Treatment Coverage
Your employer's workers' compensation insurance should cover all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your injury. This includes emergency care, surgery, physical therapy, and any ongoing treatment you need to recover.
Temporary and Permanent Disability Payments
If your injury keeps you from working while you recover, you may qualify for temporary disability payments to replace part of your lost wages. If the crush injury causes permanent damage, such as reduced use of a hand or limb, you may be entitled to permanent disability payments based on how the injury affects your ability to work.
Contact Our Hollister, CA Workers’ Compensation Attorney for a Free Consultation Today
Attorney Raul Martinez has over 15 years of legal experience helping injured workers throughout California recover the benefits they're entitled to. He understands how overwhelming a serious crush injury can be, both physically and financially, and works to make the claims process as clear and manageable as possible for his clients.
Contact Raul Martinez Injury Law Firm at 408-848-1113 to talk to our San Benito County workers' comp lawyer today.
Our Experience.
Your Recovery.
If you are facing challenges with a workers’ compensation claim, reach out to Raul Martinez Injury Law Firm today. You will receive clear guidance, steady support, and an advocate who understands how much this moment matters. Call 408-848-1113 to get the help you need.
