Protecting South Pasadena workers' rights. No attorney's fees or case costs unless we win.
What happens if your employer denies your workplace injury claim in South Pasadena?
When your employer or their insurance carrier denies a claim for a workplace injury, it adds more stress to an already difficult situation. A denied claim means they dispute either that your injury happened at work, or the extent of your injuries. This denial does not mean your claim is hopeless; you have options to challenge the decision.
You can appeal the denial through the workers' compensation system, which usually involves filing specific forms and attending hearings. Preparing for these steps requires gathering all relevant medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. A lawyer can help you gather this evidence and present your case.
How long do you have to file a workplace injury claim in South Pasadena?
Most personal injury and wrongful death claims in California must be filed within two years from the date of the injury (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1). However, if your injury involves a city, county, or other public agency in South Pasadena, a written claim must be presented to that public entity within six months of the injury (Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2). Meeting these deadlines is critical, as missing them can prevent you from pursuing your claim entirely.
The deadline is generally paused while an injured person is a minor under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352. However, Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352(b) removes that pause for claims against public entities under the Government Claims Act. For workplace injuries, the timeline to report the injury to your employer and file a workers' compensation claim also has specific, shorter deadlines that apply regardless of whether a public entity is involved. Your claim can pursue the full compensation available under California law, including medical expenses, lost wages, and other economic and non-economic harm.
What kinds of workplace safety and OSHA cases do we handle?
We represent South Pasadena workers who have suffered injuries or illnesses due to unsafe working conditions or employer negligence. This includes injuries from falls, machinery accidents, chemical exposure, or repetitive stress. We also assist employees facing retaliation after reporting safety violations or filing a workers' compensation claim. California law protects workers who speak up about unsafe workplaces.
Our focus is on ensuring employers comply with California's workplace safety regulations, including those enforced by Cal/OSHA. Cal/OSHA sets standards for workplace safety, and employers must provide a safe environment free from recognized hazards. When an employer fails to meet these standards and a worker is hurt, we step in to enforce their rights. Our firm also handles retaliation and whistleblowing claims when workers are punished for raising safety concerns.
Where does a workplace injury claim from South Pasadena get filed?
A personal injury case originating from an incident in South Pasadena is generally filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. In Los Angeles County, a personal injury case is filed in the judicial district where the incident occurred and is assigned to that district's Personal Injury Hub department (LASC Local Rule 2.3; General Order re Assignment and Transfer of Personal Injury Cases, effective May 17, 2024). For South Pasadena, the proper courthouse is the Pasadena Courthouse, located at 300 E Walnut St, Pasadena, CA 91101.
Before filing a lawsuit, a workers' compensation claim for a workplace injury is handled through the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). These are separate processes, but an injury at work often involves both types of claims. A lawyer can explain how these different systems apply to your specific situation and guide you through the appropriate filings. We also represent employees in a variety of other employment law matters throughout Los Angeles County, including our neighbors in Azusa and Bell.
What should you do after a workplace injury?
The steps you take immediately after a workplace injury can affect your ability to recover compensation. Here is a list of actions to consider:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. See a doctor or go to the emergency room immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Follow all medical advice.
Report the Injury to Your Employer: Inform your supervisor or employer about your injury in writing as soon as possible. California law requires prompt reporting.
Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any equipment involved. Keep detailed notes about what happened, who you spoke to, and the contact information for any witnesses.
Do Not Give Recorded Statements: Avoid giving a recorded statement to your employer's insurance company without first speaking to a lawyer. They may try to get you to say something that could harm your claim.
Consult a Workplace Safety Lawyer: A lawyer can explain your rights and help you understand the legal process. They can protect your interests when dealing with your employer and their insurance.
What does working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involve?
Working with Casa Legal Los Angeles means having an advocate on your side who understands California workplace safety and personal injury law. We investigate the facts of your case, collect evidence, and identify all potentially responsible parties. This can involve reviewing OSHA reports, employer safety records, and medical documentation. We handle all communications with your employer, their insurance adjusters, and opposing counsel.
Our firm is committed to pursuing the full compensation available under California law for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. We prepare your case for settlement negotiations or, if necessary, for trial. Our goal is to ensure you receive fair treatment and compensation for your workplace injury. We also help South Pasadena employees with executive and professional employment issues, and serve communities like Bradbury.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cal/OSHA?
Cal/OSHA is the Division of Occupational Safety and Health in California, responsible for enforcing state laws and regulations that protect workers from health and safety hazards on the job. Cal/OSHA investigates workplace accidents and complaints, conducts inspections, and issues citations and penalties when employers fail to comply with safety standards. They aim to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and deaths.
Can my employer fire me for reporting a workplace injury?
California law protects employees from retaliation for reporting a workplace injury or for participating in a Cal/OSHA investigation. If your employer takes adverse action against you, such as firing, demoting, or reducing your hours, because you reported an injury or safety concern, you may have a separate retaliation claim. These claims can seek remedies beyond those available through a standard workers' compensation claim.
What if I was partially at fault for my workplace accident?
California follows a system of pure comparative negligence (from *Li v. Yellow Cab Co.* (1975) 13 Cal.3d 804). This means that even if you were partially responsible for your workplace accident, you can still recover damages. Your total compensation would be reduced by your percentage of fault, but your claim is not barred entirely. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your recovery would be 80% of the total damages.
What is the difference between a workers' compensation claim and a personal injury lawsuit?
A workers' compensation claim is filed with the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board and provides benefits for medical treatment and lost wages regardless of who was at fault for the injury. A personal injury lawsuit, generally filed in Superior Court like the Pasadena Courthouse, seeks damages from a negligent third party (someone other than your employer) whose actions caused or contributed to your injury. These damages can include pain and suffering, which are generally not recoverable in workers' compensation claims.
If you have suffered a workplace injury in South Pasadena, speak with an attorney today. Call 888-585-2529 for a free conversation about your situation. No attorney's fees unless we win—and no case costs either.
Serving South Pasadena
Our attorneys represent clients throughout South Pasadena and the greater Los Angeles area.
Where a South Pasadena claim is filed
A personal injury claim arising in South Pasadena is filed in Pasadena Courthouse, Northeast District of the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.
In Los Angeles County a personal injury case is filed in the judicial district where the incident occurred and is assigned to that district's Personal Injury Hub department (LASC Local Rule 2.3; General Order re Assignment and Transfer of Personal Injury Cases, effective May 17, 2024).
Catchment boundaries change. Confirm the filing courthouse on the court's official locator before relying on it.
Source: Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles — Local Rules, Chapter 2 (verified August 23, 2026).
Deadlines that apply in South Pasadena
The California filing deadlines that apply to an incident in South Pasadena (Los Angeles County) come from state statute, not a local rule. These are the deadlines cited most often.
2 years — personal injury lawsuit
Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1 — two years from the date of injury for most personal injury and wrongful death claims.
6 months — claim against a public entity
Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2 — a written claim must be presented to the public entity within six months for claims involving death or injury to person or personal property, before a lawsuit may be filed.
Injured minors
Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352 — the limitations period is generally tolled while the injured person is a minor, but the six-month government claim deadline is not tolled the same way.
This is general information about California law, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Deadlines change with the facts and with who the defendant is — a claim against a city, county, transit agency, or the state triggers a much shorter deadline, and delayed discovery, tolling, and other exceptions apply. Casa Legal Los Angeles is licensed to practice in California. Confirm any deadline with an attorney.
Sources: California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1; California Government Code § 911.2 (verified August 23, 2026).