Work-Related Back & Neck Injuries Lawyers
Riverside, California
Experienced Back & Neck Injury Attorneys in Riverside, CA
When back and neck injuries are caused by unsafe work conditions, negligence, or preventable accidents, then you have the right to demand accountability and compensation.
Back and neck injuries are among the most serious a worker can suffer. They don’t just cause pain. They impact your ability to move, work, sleep, and live without constant discomfort.
If your condition resulted from a specific injury that happened at work or from a serious accident, you may be entitled to compensation through workers’ compensation benefits or a personal injury claim.
Some employers and insurance companies try to avoid responsibility by delaying or denying valid claims. Fontes Law Group makes sure they don’t.
We hold employers accountable and fight for the full benefits you deserve.
Our experienced attorneys represent injured workers across Southern California with urgency, strategy, and proven results. If you or a loved one suffered a back or neck injury on the job, we are ready to protect your claim and fight for the fair compensation you deserve.
Why Clients Choose Fontes Law Group
Experience. Compassion. Results.
At Fontes Law Group, we combine decades of legal experience with a client-first approach. Our attorneys understand the complexities of California’s workers’ compensation system and how to navigate the specific challenges that come with spinal, neck, and back injuries.
- Proven success handling severe work-related injury claims
- All team members speak Spanish
- Offices in Santa Ana and Riverside
- No fees unless we win your case
- Trusted by California workers and their familie
Meet Rosa Duarte
Experienced Workers’ Compensation Representative
Understanding Back & Neck Injury Claims in California
Back and neck injuries are among the most serious and most frequently disputed claims in California’s workers’ compensation system. These injuries can include:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Cervical spine injuries
- Thoracic or lumbar spine trauma
- Soft tissue injuries (sprains, strains)
- Vertebral fractures
- Chronic pain or radiculopathy
Even injuries that seem minor at first can worsen over time, especially if your job involves repetitive motion, lifting, or standing. If your injury occurred at work, whether suddenly or through long-term strain, you have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Under California law, employees are entitled to medical treatment, wage replacement, and long-term disability benefits through their employer’s workers’ comp insurance. Insurers often challenge these claims, downplay injuries, or push workers to return too soon. That’s when legal representation becomes critical.
Types of Back & Neck Injury Cases and Red Flags
Common Workplace Injury Cases We Handle
- Slips, trips, and falls at the workplace
- Lifting heavy objects or materials
- Repetitive strain injuries from assembly line or warehouse work
- Vehicle collisions while on the job
- Falling objects or equipment failures
- Construction site and industrial accidents
- Office-related injuries from poor ergonomics
Signs Your Injury May Be Serious and That You Need Legal Help
- Persistent pain or stiffness in your back, shoulders, or neck
- Tingling, numbness, or shooting pain down your arms or legs
- Difficulty sitting, standing, walking, or sleeping
- Loss of mobility or muscle control
- Employer refuses to file your injury report
- Insurance company delays medical approval or benefit payments
If any of these red flags sound familiar, it’s time to speak with an attorney.
Work-Related Injury Timeline
- Initial treatment and claim filing: 1 to 2 weeks
- Investigation and medical exams: 1 to 3 months
- Settlement negotiations: 3 to 6 months
- Formal appeal or hearing: 6 months or longer (if contested)
We keep you informed at every stage and work efficiently to minimize delays.
Understanding Legal Duties and Violations
Employers in California are legally obligated to maintain a safe workplace and provide workers’ compensation insurance. When that duty is breached, employees suffer the consequences.
Legal Standards That Apply
- California Labor Code Sections 3700 to 3709: Requires employers to carry workers’ comp insurance
- Occupational Safety and Health Standards (Cal/OSHA): Establishes safe working conditions
- Medical-Legal Evaluations (QME/AME): Used to determine permanent disability ratings
Violations That Can Affect Your Case
- Failure to provide safety equipment or training
- Retaliation after reporting an injury
- Delayed or denied medical care
- Employer claims your injury is pre-existing or non-work-related
We investigate these violations thoroughly and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Understanding Compensation in Back & Neck Injury Cases
Back and neck injuries can result in significant costs. A successful claim can help you recover:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses (surgeries, therapy, prescriptions)
- Temporary and permanent disability benefits
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Travel costs for medical care
Non-Economic Support
- Compensation for chronic pain or reduced mobility
- Job retraining or vocational rehabilitation
- Home modifications or assistive equipment
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are not available in standard workers’ compensation claims. However, in rare cases involving intentional harm or gross negligence by a third party, a separate personal injury lawsuit may allow for punitive damages. We evaluate every case to determine whether this type of claim applies.
Workers’ compensation in California does not typically offer pain and suffering damages, but we explore every legal option available, including third-party liability claims where appropriate.
Proving Your Case in California Courts
Key Legal Elements We Must Prove
You Were Injured
We use medical records, scans, and specialist opinions to confirm the nature and severity of your injury.
The Injury Was Work-Related
We demonstrate that the injury occurred in the course and scope of your employment, even if it developed over time.
Your Employer or Insurer Is Liable
We identify delays, denials, or underpayments and pursue all appropriate claims or penalties.
If litigation becomes necessary, our trial-ready team will aggressively represent your interests before the WCAB or in civil court.
Q: How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim in California?
You generally must report your injury within 30 days and file a workers’ compensation claim within one year of the injury date.
Q: Can I see my own doctor?
You may be required to use a physician within your employer’s Medical Provider Network (MPN), but there are exceptions. We can help you make that determination.
Q: What if my employer says my injury wasn’t work-related?
We gather medical opinions and evidence to show how your job duties caused or contributed to your condition.
Q: How much does it cost to hire Fontes Law Group?
There are no upfront costs. We only get paid if we win benefits for you.
Q: What if I already filed and was denied?
You still have options. We can file an appeal and represent you in hearings to challenge the denial.
Helpful Resources for California Residents
- California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB)
- Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC)
- California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR)
- Cal/OSHA Workplace Safety
- Santa Ana Workers’ Comp District Office
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you’ve suffered a back or neck injury at work, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your claim can be. Let Fontes Law Group protect your rights, secure your benefits, and fight for your future.
Request a free case review today.