If a job-related injury occurred as the result of a specific event (such as falling), it is almost always covered by workers’ compensation.
If the injury or medical condition developed over time, such as a repetitive stress injury, hearing loss, or a health condition caused by daily exposure to toxic chemicals, it is usually covered.
Since the onset date of injuries or conditions that develop over time is not always clear, they should be reported to an employer as soon as the employee realizes or suspects that the condition may be job-related.
If the injury is psychological rather than physical, it may be covered, depending on the cause and nature of the injury. A California workers’ compensation lawyer can help employees understand whether job-related psychological injuries are covered.
