If you’ve been injured on the job in the Bay Area, what you do next can have a major impact on your recovery and your workers’ compensation benefits. Unfortunately, many injured workers make critical mistakes—often unintentionally—that can delay their case or reduce their compensation. At Dalili Law, we’ve helped countless clients across Northern California navigate the workers’ comp system successfully. Here are the top 7 mistakes to avoid after a workplace injury.
1. Not Reporting the Injury Immediately
One of the most common mistakes workers make is failing to report the injury right away. In California, you must notify your employer within 30 days of the incident. Waiting too long can cause your claim to be denied or significantly delayed.
Tip: Report the injury in writing and keep a copy for your records.
2. Not Seeking Medical Attention Promptly
Some workers try to “tough it out” or assume the injury isn’t serious. Delaying medical care can hurt both your health and your case. Insurance companies may argue that your injury wasn’t serious or wasn’t caused by your job if there’s no immediate documentation.
Tip: Ask your employer for an approved workers’ comp medical provider or seek care at an urgent care center and inform them it’s work-related.
3. Failing to Follow Medical Advice or Treatment Plans
If you don’t follow through with prescribed treatments, therapy sessions, or medications, insurers may use that to question the severity of your injury or reduce your benefits.
Tip: Keep all appointments and document your symptoms, treatment progress, and how the injury affects your daily life.
4. Posting About the Injury on Social Media
Sharing updates or photos related to your injury on social platforms can backfire. Insurance companies and defense attorneys often monitor claimants’ online activity to find reasons to challenge their claims.
Tip: Avoid posting anything about your injury, activity level, or job until your case is fully resolved.
5. Returning to Work Too Soon
Some injured workers feel pressure from employers or their own financial situation to return to work before they’re medically cleared. Doing so can worsen your condition and impact your claim.
Tip: Only return to work when your doctor says it’s safe and get it in writing. Modified duties should be clearly defined.
6. Not Understanding Your Legal Rights
California’s workers’ compensation system is complex, and insurance companies are not always forthcoming with what you’re entitled to. Without guidance, you may miss out on benefits like temporary disability, vocational rehab, or permanent disability compensation.
Tip: Speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to understand your full rights.
7. Not Hiring an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Many workers believe they can handle the process on their own—until complications arise. Hiring an attorney early can help ensure your claim is filed properly, deadlines are met, and you’re not taken advantage of.
At Dalili Law, we represent injured workers across the Bay Area with compassion, skill, and results. From filing claims to appealing denials and negotiating settlements, we fight to get you the compensation and care you deserve.
Bonus Tip: Keep Detailed Records
Maintain copies of all documents related to your injury:
- Doctor’s notes
- Medical bills
- Work restrictions
- Written communication with your employer or insurer
Organized records make it easier to prove your case and respond to any disputes.
Why Trust Dalili Law with Your Workers’ Comp Case?
- Over 20 years of legal experience in California
- Deep knowledge of workers’ compensation law
- Personal attention and responsive communication
- Offices serving San Jose and the entire Bay Area
- No fee unless we win your case
Injured at Work? Get Legal Help Today.
If you’ve been injured on the job anywhere in the Bay Area—including San Jose, Oakland, Fremont, Santa Clara, or surrounding cities—Dalili Law is here to help. We offer free consultations and fight for the full benefits you’re entitled to under California law.
Call us today or submit your information online to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I see my own doctor after a work injury?
A: You can if you predesignated your doctor before the injury. Otherwise, you must use the employer’s medical provider network initially.
Q: What if my workers’ comp claim is denied?
A: You can appeal. An experienced attorney can help you file for a hearing and present evidence.
Q: Do I have to pay upfront for legal help?
A: No. Dalili Law handles workers’ comp cases on a contingency basis—you pay nothing unless we win.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: You must report the injury within 30 days and typically file the claim within one year.
Don’t risk your health or your future. Avoid these mistakes and get trusted legal help from Dalili Law.
