If you were injured playing a professional sport in another state, you may think that you aren’t eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in California. That is not necessarily true! There are certain instances that would allow you to get compensation even if you did not play for a professional team in California.
The athlete workers’ compensation attorneys at Betts Law Group have helped many athletes in California navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation, even when their injuries occurred while playing for a professional team in another state. You pushed your body to the limit for your sport — let us help you get the compensation you deserve to live a healthy life.
Connecting Your Athlete Workers’ Comp Claim to California
Just because your sports injury occurred in another state doesn’t automatically disqualify you from filing a workers’ compensation claim in California.
Several factors can potentially establish your connection to California, including:
- Residency: If you reside in California, this can be a significant factor in establishing jurisdiction in the state.
- Team Location: Even if the injury occurred in a different state, if your team’s primary business operations are located in California, this can be a relevant factor.
- Contractual Agreements: The details of your employment contract, including where it was signed and where your employer’s headquarters are located, can be important as well. If it was signed in California, you could be eligible to file for workers’ compensation benefits in the state.
- Medical Treatment: Receiving medical care for your injury in California can also strengthen your connection to the state for workers’ compensation purposes.
The athlete workers’ compensation attorneys at Betts Law Group can analyze your specific situation to determine if a sufficient connection to California exists to pursue a claim here.
What Should You Do After an Out-of-State Sports Injury?
If you’ve been injured while playing professional sports while not physically in California, these steps can be an important part of ensuring you get your benefits:
- Prioritize Your Medical Care: Your health is always the top priority. Seek immediate medical attention for your injuries and make sure to keep records of the treatment you receive.
- Report the Injury Immediately: While not always possible for past injuries, you should inform your team and employer about your injury as soon as possible and follow their established procedures.
- Consult with an Attorney: Contact a workers’ compensation attorney who has experience working with professional athletes to discuss your case and understand your options.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your injury, medical treatment, disability payments, and all communication with your employer and insurance companies.
The Benefits of Workers’ Compensation for Athletes in California
Workers’ compensation benefits can provide much-needed financial support for injured athletes.
- Medical Treatment: This includes coverage for medical expenses related to your injuries.
- Temporary Disability Benefits: If your injury was severe enough that you had to miss training or a game, you may be eligible for disability benefits while you are unable to work.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: In serious cases, payments for permanent impairment or disability may be available to you.
Navigating the legalities of workers’ compensation benefits, especially when dealing with interstate employment, can be confusing for individuals who don’t have a clear understanding of the benefits they’re entitled to and how to go about receiving them. The best way to determine what types of compensation you could be eligible for is to contact an attorney with experience handling worker’s comp cases for athletes.
Contact Us at Betts Law Group Today!
If you are a current or former professional athlete and think you may have a valid workers’ compensation claim, contact the lawyers at Betts Law Group today. We can help you understand your rights and pursue the benefits you deserve. Let us help you ensure your health is taken care of!
