Spokane Workers' Compensation Attorneys

Lehmbecker Law — Spokane Workers' Compensation Lawyers

Lehmbecker Law is a recognized leader in workers' compensation claim services in Spokane, with over three decades of experience advocating for injured workers.

Our skilled team of lawyers knows how to manage all aspects of workers' compensation cases, from initial filings to appeals. We pride ourselves on delivering personalized legal solutions that ensure that clients receive the maximum compensation for their injuries and losses.

With a deep understanding of labor laws in Washington State and a relentless dedication to client success and satisfaction, our firm can be your steadfast ally as you navigate the workers' compensation system.

What Are Some Common Workplace Accidents?

Workplace accidents encompass a wide range of events that happen across different industries, often leading to injuries that necessitate workers' compensation claims. The following are some of the most frequent types of workplace accidents.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls can occur due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or obstacles in walkways. They’re among the most common causes of workplace injuries.

Overexertion

This refers to injuries related to activities like lifting, pulling, pushing, holding, carrying, or throwing. Overexertion can lead to persistent musculoskeletal disorders, such as chronic back pain.

Being Struck By or Against Objects

Workers can be hit by falling, flying, swinging, or rolling objects, resulting in serious injuries. This type of accident is particularly common in construction and industrial settings.

Being Caught In or Between Objects

These accidents happen when a part of the worker’s body gets caught in or compressed by equipment, trapped between rolling, sliding, or shifting objects, or jammed between a stationary and a moving object.

Electrocution

Certain workers can be exposed to fatal electrical currents due to improper wiring, contact with power lines, or faulty electrical equipment.

Exposure to Harmful Substances or Environments

Prolonged or repeated exposure to chemicals, toxic fumes, extreme temperatures, and loud noises can lead to illnesses or injuries, some of which could take months or years to recover from.

Vehicle Accidents

Employees who drive for business purposes are at heightened risk of vehicle accidents, which are another significant cause of workplace fatalities.

Fires and Explosions

Though less common, these sorts of accidents can be extremely dangerous, often resulting in severe burns and other injuries.

Common Workers’ Compensation Injuries in Spokane

In Spokane, as in many other areas, certain types of injuries frequently lead to workers' compensation claims. These can range from mild to severe and impact various aspects of a worker's life and ability to perform their job.

Here are some of the most common injuries reported in Spokane, Washington, that could qualify for workers’ compensation.

Musculoskeletal Injuries

Musculoskeletal injuries include sprains, strains, and tears of muscles and tendons, often occurring in the back, neck, and shoulders. Such injuries are prevalent among workers who perform repetitive tasks or heavy lifting or sit for long periods.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis arise from performing the same motion again and again, which is common in office settings and jobs requiring repetitive manual work.

Traumatic Injuries

Physical trauma can include broken bones, head injuries, and severe cuts. These types of injuries are often seen in industries like construction, manufacturing, and warehousing.

Burns and Electrocutions

Heat and electricity-related injuries can occur in workplaces that expose workers to high-voltage equipment, chemicals, or open flames.

Occupational Diseases

Some workers can develop conditions related to exposure to harmful substances. This category includes respiratory issues from inhaling toxic fumes, skin diseases from chemical exposure, and hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud noise.

Mental Health Issues

Psychological conditions like acute stress, depression, or anxiety stemming from workplace accidents are increasingly recognized and compensable under workers' compensation laws.

What Benefits Are Available Under Washington’s Workers’ Comp System?

Workers' compensation in Washington State provides several key benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. These benefits are designed to cover injured workers’ various needs, helping them recover and return to work as soon as possible.

The primary benefits available under Washington’s workers' compensation include:

Medical Coverage

This category of benefits covers all necessary and reasonable medical treatment related to the injury or illness, including hospital visits, medications, surgeries, and essential medical equipment.

Wage Replacement Benefits

Also known as time-loss compensation, these benefits provide partial wage replacement for workers who are temporarily unable to work due to their injuries. The amount typically equates to about 60%–75% of the worker’s average weekly wage, depending on factors like marital status and number of dependents.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

If a worker sustains a permanent impairment but can still work in some capacity, they may be entitled to a lump sum or structured payments as compensation for the loss of bodily function.

Permanent Total Disability (PTD)

Also known as pension benefits, PTD is extended to workers who are permanently and totally disabled as a result of their work-related injury. This typically means that they’re unable to return to any form of gainful employment.

Vocational Rehabilitation Services

If an injured worker can’t return to their former job, they may receive assistance in training for new work within their physical capabilities. These services can include job retraining, resume assistance, and job placement services.

Survivor Benefits

In the case of a work-related death, the worker’s dependents may receive benefits. These typically include a portion of the worker's wages and funeral expenses up to a certain amount.

Structured Settlements

For eligible workers over 50, Washington allows for the negotiation of structured settlements as an alternative to ongoing time-loss or pension benefits.

These benefits are made available by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), which administers the state’s workers' compensation system. Workers are encouraged to file a claim through their employer or directly with L&I to access these benefits.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for an Injury or Occupational Disease Sustained on the Job?

In Washington, the timeline for filing a workers' compensation claim depends on whether the qualifying issue is an injury or an occupational disease.

For work-related injuries, workers must file their claims within one year of the date of the injury. It's important to report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, then proceed to file a claim with L&I or through your employer's workers' compensation insurance.

For occupational diseases, the timeline is extended to two years to account for the gradual onset of many illnesses. This means you have 24 months from the date you were informed by a qualified healthcare provider that your disease is work-related to file your claim.

It’s crucial to adhere to these time frames to ensure that you’re eligible to receive workers' compensation benefits. Filing late might result in your claim being denied; as such, it’s advisable to act promptly and seek legal advice if needed for guidance regarding the workers' compensation system.

Why Choose Lehmbecker Law for Your Workers’ Compensation Claim in Spokane, WA?

Choosing Lehmbecker Law to handle your workers' compensation claim ensures that you have seasoned advocates on your side. Here are a few reasons you should consider partnering with us.