Seattle Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
We expect to be safe while we are working, but accidents do happen. If you suffered an injury on the job, you have the right to receive compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and disability. However, some insurance companies can make the process of obtaining this compensation unnecessarily difficult.
Washington Injury Law is here to help. We know that the workers’ compensation process can be complicated and confusing, especially after you suffer an injury. Our Seattle workers’ compensation lawyer will work closely with you to obtain the benefits you need to recover.
- At Washington Injury Law, our Seattle personal injury attorneys have extensive experience in workers’ compensation cases. We are familiar with the Washington claims process and can assist you each step of the way.
- Our firm aims to practice open and honest communication with each of our clients from consultation to settlement. You will remain up-to-date about the status of your case each step of the way.
- We understand that legal fees can be very expensive. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis to reduce your out-of-pocket costs – we do not charge any legal fees unless we win a settlement on your behalf.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Most employers in the state of Washington must provide their employees with workers’ compensation insurance, which provides funds for expenses related to workplace-related injuries and illnesses. You and your employer both pay premiums into workers’ compensation periodically.
Washington employers have two options for purchasing workers’ compensation insurance.
- Your employer can purchase insurance through the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). You receive funds through the Washington State Fund and L&I will handle your paperwork.
- Your employer can qualify for self-insurance and your employer will handle your paperwork and payment. An employer can qualify for self-insurance if he or she can prove that he or she has at least $25 million in assets and administrative capacity for workers’ compensation claims.
In most cases, your employer will have insurance through L&I. Regardless of which coverage you have, you have 1 year from the date of your injury to file your claim. If you are suffering from a workplace-related illness, you have 2 years from the date of your diagnosis to file.
What Does Washington Workers’ Compensation Cover?
To claim workers’ compensation benefits, you will need to prove that you suffered an injury on the job. Injuries can include things such as a brain injury, a burn injury, a spinal cord injury or something more. You will have to provide documentation showing that you are eligible for benefits and that the injury was workplace-related. Washington workers’ compensation typically covers the following benefits.
- Medical expenses
- A portion of your lost wages
- Prescription medication
- Travel reimbursements to see a health care provider
- Personal property damage
You can also claim one of four types of disability benefits: temporary partial disability, permanent partial disability, temporary total disability, and permanent total disability. Your eligibility for these programs will depend on the type of injury you suffer and your medical records.
What to Do After a Workplace Accident
The moments after a workplace injury can be disorienting and painful. However, it is important to take these steps following your accident to increase your chances of receiving a successful claim.
- First, you will need to report the injury to your employer. You will need to fill out and complete paperwork either issued by L&I or your employer. Your employer will either send this paperwork to L&I or process it independently.
- Next, you will need to seek immediate medical attention. You can visit any doctor or emergency room for immediate treatment. After your first treatment, you will need to visit a doctor in either L&I’s network or who your employer designates. While receiving medical attention, tell the staff that you suffered an injury at work. They will provide you with paperwork to facilitate your claim.
- Then, you will need to file your claim. The process for filing will differ based on your insurance coverage. Washington Injury Law can help guide you through this process, whether it is through L&I or your employer.
If you are suffering from a workplace injury or illness in Seattle, Washington Injury Law can help. We know how to navigate the claims process to help you find the path to maximum possible compensation.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation at our Seattle office and to discuss your legal options.