Agricultural workers are so important to California as a whole. Throughout Salinas and the broader Central Coast region, their efforts drive the economy. They also face really high injury rates, and often face difficulties getting through workers’ compensation without help from an experienced attorney.
At Ratto Law Firm, P.C., our California workers’ compensation attorneys are ready to prove your case and seek the compensation you deserve. We protect the rights of agricultural workers in Salinas and the Central Coast region.
Why Agricultural Workers Get Hurt More Often
The work you do can be dangerous. It involves:
- Heavy lifting
- Bending
- Kneeling
- Repetitive motions
- Exposure to chemical
- Exposure to extreme weather
This type of work lead to very serious injuries, which should be compensable through workers’ compensation.
Types of Injuries Agricultural Workers Commonly Face
Common injuries include:
- Back and shoulder injuries from lifting produce boxes
- Knee injuries
- Heat illness
- Dehydration
- Pesticide exposure
- Slip-and-fall accidents in muddy or uneven fields
- Machinery injuries
- Equipment injuries
Special Challenges for Agricultural Workers in Salinas and the Central Coast
Work on the Central Coast comes with unique challenges for workers’ comp claims:
1. Seasonal and Migrant Work
A lot of workers move from different employers and fields throughout the season. This often makes it harder to determine where the injury occurred, and which employer should have to pay.
2. Crew Leaders and Labor Contractors
In Salinas, many workers are not hired by the growers themselves, but through farm labor contractors. This can create confusion about:
- Who is responsible for the injury
- Which insurance company should provide benefits
- Whether the contractor is properly insured
3. Language Barriers
Many workers in this area do not speak English as a primary language. They may speak Spanish or other languages instead. This can make communication challenging while getting medical treatment or reporting claims, creating difficulties.
4. Pressure Not to Report Injuries
Many workers are pressured not to report injuries. They fear they could lose their job if productivity goes down. Employees worry about losing their jobs or being reported for immigration violations. An attorney can help you seek the compensation you are owed and protect your rights.
Your Rights Under California Workers’ Compensation Law
Agricultural workers have the same rights as everyone else in California. You are entitled to:
- Medical treatment for work-related injuries
- Temporary disability payments if you can’t work for a while
- Permanent disability benefits if you are permanently injured
- Reimbursement for mileage to medical appointments
- Job protections under anti-retaliation laws
You do not need to prove your employer did anything wrong. You just have to show that the injury occurred because of your job duties.
How to Protect Your Claim After an Agricultural Injury
These kinds of claims are often disputed. You can take some steps that will help:
1. Report the Injury Immediately
Tell someone in charge about your pain and your injury. Do so even if it seems minor, because that could impact your case.
2. Request a DWC-1 Claim Form
Your employer must give you this form after you report an injury. Completing it officially starts your workers’ compensation claim.
3. Get Medical Treatment Right Away
Don’t wait to get medical treatment. Delays can hurt your case. Describe what happened, that it happened at work, and your job duties.
4. Document Your Work Conditions
Take notes or photos of:
- The tools you use
- The weight of boxes or equipment
- The repetitive tasks you perform
- Weather conditions
- Any unsafe practices or lack of training
5. Keep Track of Your Symptoms
Many agricultural injuries worsen over time. Keeping a written record helps show the progression of your condition.
Get Help With Workers’ Compensation Benefits in California
If you work in agriculture in Salinas, Watsonville, King City, or anywhere along the Central Coast, understanding your rights is essential. Our team at Ratto Law Firm, P.C. provides you with the advice and representation you need. Contact us today for a consultation.