If an employer forces an injured worker to accept less money than they are due, what penalty do they face?

When an employer forces an injured worker to accept less money than what they are legally entitled to under California Workers' Compensation law, they are subject to significant civil penalties. The amount of these penalties is designed to deter employers from engaging in such unfair practices, which not only harm the injured worker but also undermine the integrity of the workers' compensation system.

The correct answer of a civil penalty of up to $10,000 is grounded in California's legal framework, which imposes penalties on employers who violate workers' rights. This specific amount reflects the seriousness of the offense, emphasizing that employers must adhere to fair and legal compensation practices. Such penalties serve as a mechanism for accountability, ensuring that employers cannot exploit injured workers or circumvent their responsibilities.

The other penalty amounts, while potentially significant, do not align with the prescribed legal consequences for this particular violation. The $10,000 penalty effectively underlines the state’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and providing a fair compensation framework within the workers' compensation system.