Washington Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Understanding Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation was introduced in America over a century ago to ensure medical care and regular paychecks for workers injured on the job while avoiding extended litigation—where the employee almost always came out on the losing end. While the workers’ compensation program has helped hundreds of thousands of injured workers, it remains a somewhat controversial system. Employers tend to believe workers’ compensation premiums are almost prohibitively expensive, while workers who are injured on the job and must file for workers’ compensation benefits could find the process filled with complexities.
Employers may even discourage employees injured on the job from filing a legitimate claim. Delays are common, and many workers on the lower end of the socio-economic scale may find they simply do not have the financial means to protest a system that leaves them injured and unable to support their families on the benefits provided. While every state in the U.S. has some form of workers’ compensation, the system does vary from state to state. Individual state laws determine which businesses must carry coverage, how much and how long they must pay an injured or ill employee, and what penalties are imposed if a company fails to comply.
An important aspect to consider is the role of legal assistance in these cases. Experienced workers’ compensation lawyers can provide crucial support and guidance, ensuring that all required paperwork is accurately completed and submitted within the state-mandated deadlines. They can also advocate on your behalf to resolve disputes with employers or insurance companies and maximize the benefits you receive.
For a FREE initial consultation with our Washington workers' compensation lawyers, call Palace Law at (253) 544-5935.
How Long Do I Have to File My Washington Workers’ Compensation Claim?
While you should always file your workers’ compensation claim as quickly as possible, under Washington law, you have one year from the date of your work injury to file a claim with Loss and Injury or your self-insured employer and two years from the date of a doctor’s diagnosis for an occupational disease claim to file for workers’ compensation.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available in Washington?
In the state of Washington, the program administrator for workers’ compensation is the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Any employer with one or more employees must provide workers’ compensation coverage (with standard exceptions). Employers must cover all reasonable medical treatments related to workplace injuries. Although employees are allowed to choose their own doctor for a first visit, after that, the employer can require the employee to stay in-network.
Temporary total disability benefits are equal to 60-75 percent of the regular monthly wages, depending on the worker's number of dependents and the current average weekly wage in the state ($1,190 as of 2018). Workers must wait three days for benefits, and those benefits will be paid until the worker is able to return to work or has reached “maximum medical improvement.”
Temporary partial disability benefits in Washington are equal to 80 percent of the employee’s pre-injury wages minus post-injury wages. Permanent partial disability benefits will vary according to the severity of the injury (as rated by a qualified doctor). Permanent and totally disabled workers are eligible for a monthly pension, with the amount being dependent on pre-injury wages, the average state wages at the time of your injury, marital status, number of dependent children, Social Security benefits, and health-care benefits. Survivors may also receive a monthly pension at 120 percent of the statewide average wage for the year prior to the award. Domestic partners and spouses are also eligible for a one-time immediate death and burial benefit.
In addition to these core benefits, Washington also provides retraining programs for those who are unable to return to their previous job due to the severity of their injuries. These programs focus on equipping workers with skills needed for alternate employment, aiming to facilitate their reintegration into the workforce. Legal professionals can assist in navigating these benefits, ensuring that all eligible support options are fully utilized.
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- Natalie W.
I have worked with PALACE law for the last five years. On several occasions, my lawyer without her knowledge, has talk me off the edge when I was ready to give up. This company not only did they have my best interest, but also my well-being. I can not say enough positive things about my lawyer, Stefanie Carlton, she is always going above and beyond!
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- John A.
I’ve spent the last 7 years working with them and it hasn’t been a easy ride but they work very hard to get the best outcome for there clients. Sandra has done an outstanding job keeping me informed of the process and keeping me feel safe and secure with my future. I couldn’t of asked for a better person and team to help me during this stressful time and working hard to get me what I deserved.
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- Ed G.
Totally a 5 star Law Firm. They actually care about "the RIGHT thing to do" and everyone has done and said nothing short of that. I have, would, and will, recommend them to anyone that has had a workplace injury and needs help navigating their way through the L&I process because L&I says they're there for you, but they really aren't. Palace Law really is and win or lose, they really do the footwork necessary to get you what's due. Thanks again for all your continuing help!!
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- Former Client
They are an amazing team and made my case an easy process to cope with. They stayed in great communication with me every step of the way and fought to maximize my profit. Palace Law is hands down THE BEST law firm I’ve dealt with. Attorney John H and assistant Hailey make an amazing team.
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- Mike N.
Took my L&I case and immediately went to work. Got my denial appealed and I expect to get this case resolved soon. Stef is great and keeps me informed every step of the way. I’ve worked 48 years without any claims. I file ONE and L&I immediately denies me. L&I suks, thank God for Palace Law!
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- Kelly Y.
Aria has been working with me and she is very thorough. I don’t get good sleep at night because of my injury but knowing that Palace Law is on the job gives me peace of mind specially, when they have employees like Aria thanks for letting me give my feedback and putting me in a position to give feedback.
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- Sharon R.
I highly recommend Palace Law for your work place injury. I would definitely use them again but hopefully I won’t have to.
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- Jacob H.
They have been entirely helpful since they accepted my case. Thorough and informative every step of the way. When I had an IME and no gas in my car they arranged for a ride to and from. After fighting tooth and nail myself with little to no results Palace Law stepped in and immediately Sedgwick stopped dragging me through the mud.
What Are the Exceptions for Washington Employers Regarding Workers’ Compensation?
While most businesses in Washington, even with one employee, must carry workers’ compensation, there are some narrow exceptions, including:
- Private homes that employ individuals to garden, do maintenance work, or make repairs
- Individuals who work in return for assistance from a religious or charitable organization
- Employees who are covered under federal law
These exemptions mean that certain workers are not eligible for state workers’ compensation benefits. However, alternative avenues for compensation may be available, such as federal programs or private employer agreements, depending on the nature of the employment and applicable laws. It’s important for both employers and employees to understand these exceptions and seek legal advice if there is any uncertainty about eligibility under the state’s workers’ compensation system.
Obtaining Legal Help for Your Workers’ Compensation Benefit Claim
Interpreting Washington’s workers’ compensation laws could be more complex than you might think; workers’ compensation laws change frequently, and handling a viable workers’ compensation claim on your own can be difficult. At Palace Law, we have helped thousands of injured workers win their workers’ compensation claims in Washington. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help you with your claim. We possess over 100 years of collective legal experience, which can benefit your workers’ compensation claim.
Engaging with experienced attorneys offers numerous advantages. Our team provides comprehensive guidance from initial consultation through the resolution of your claim, helping you navigate legal complexities and maximizing the potential for a favorable outcome. We ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way, including thorough case evaluation, strategic advice, and aggressive representation when negotiating or litigating your claim. Our compassionate approach assures that your needs are prioritized, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal burdens.
Don’t wait; contact Palace Law today for experienced assistance with your workers’ compensation claim in Washington.
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