On-job accidents and occupational diseases are unfortunate, but happen all the time. If you were hurt on the job, you can choose to file a claim with The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). The first two steps are to inform your supervisor about the accident and seek medical help. WA state L&I ensures that injured workers, or those suffering from occupational diseases, get the workers’ compensation benefits that they deserve. The benefits that you get under workers’ compensation benefits include –
- Medical care. The workers’ compensation benefits from L&I will typically cover your emergency medical treatment and hospital bills, diagnostic tests, visits to the doctor, and medication costs. Depending on the injury, physical therapy may be included, as well. The medical care will cover for medical bills until you feel better.
- Loss of wages. L&I claim will also cover for loss of wages through time loss compensation. The benefits typically cover 60-75% of workers’ wages, depending on other factors, including marital status and number of children.
- Loss of Earning Power (LEP) benefits. This kind of benefit is meant to help workers who have suffered injuries which prevents them from working full-time and accept a position that pays lower than before.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits. Claimants who have suffered permanent impairment because of a work injury can claim for PPD benefits. These benefits are meant for those who have got the best medical treatment, but their impairment remains the same or is unlikely to improve.
There are also other benefits, such as structured settlements, pension benefits, work-related death benefits, vocational services and travel reimbursement.
Do you need a lawyer?
Filing an L&I claim for getting workers’ compensation benefits in Washington State doesn’t have to be hard, but things often don’t move as smoothly as expected. One of the better things to do is to contact an attorney who knows the workers’ compensation system in depth. Don’t shy away from discussing your injuries, what you expect in benefits, and your lawyer will explain your rights and the workers’ compensation benefits that you are entitled to. With a lawyer, you can also expect to get support if your claim is not entertained, or if the settlement is less than what you deserve.
Check online now to find more top-rated lawyers near you, seek an appointment, and ask them more about workers’ compensation and how things work in Washington State.
