Tri-Cities Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Experienced Richland, Pasco, and Kennewick Workers' Compensation Attorneys

Workplace accidents can happen anywhere in the Tri-Cities, from the vineyards of Pasco to the research labs of Richland and the construction sites of Kennewick. Lehmbecker Law attorneys are committed to helping injured workers secure the benefits they deserve.

Our workers' compensation attorneys have deep roots in this community and are prepared to handle cases involving local businesses and industries. Whether you're dealing with medical bills, lost income, or long-term disability, we have the experience needed to guide you through every step of your workers' compensation claim.

Our team also includes skilled personal injury attorneys who can offer comprehensive legal support for any third-party claims related to your work-related injury.

Common Causes of Workplace Accidents in the Tri-Cities

The diverse economy of the Tri-Cities area brings with it a wide array of workplace risks. Some common causes of workplace accidents in the region include:

• Slips, trips, and falls in various work environments
• Heavy machinery accidents in manufacturing
• Vehicle accidents during work-related travel
• Exposure to harmful substances, especially in agricultural and industrial work

Work-related injuries are more common in some sectors, such as agriculture and construction. However, anyone can be injured at work, including office and retail employees.

Frequent Injuries After Workplace Accidents in the Tri-Cities Region

Workplace accidents in the Tri-Cities can result in a wide range of injuries. Some of the most common we see in workers' compensation claims and personal injury cases include:

• Back and neck injuries from falls or lifting
• Eye injuries in manufacturing and construction settings
• Traumatic brain injuries from falling objects or vehicle accidents
• Chemical burns and heat burns
• Respiratory issues from exposure to toxins or pollutants
• Heat-related illnesses in outdoor work environments
• Fractures and sprains from falls or overexertion

These injuries often lead to significant medical expenses and lost wages. When you’re struggling to cover these costs, you can turn to a work injury lawyer for help.

Workers' Compensation in Washington State: Your Rights and Eligibility

Across the United States, workers’ compensation insurance provides crucial benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses, regardless of fault.

Washington's workers' compensation system is managed by the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). This system aims to protect workers in the Tri-Cities area and across the state, offering financial support when they need medical care for injuries sustained at work.

Tri-Cities workers should be aware of some key local considerations.

Reporting Deadlines

Swift action is essential. A worker must alert their employer as soon as possible after an injury, although Washington does not give a specific time frame for making this report.

However, the state does set forth these deadlines for filing L&I claims:

• Physical injuries: Within one year from the date of the injury.
• Occupational illnesses: Within two years from the date the disease is diagnosed.

It’s better to file right away. If you are unable to because you are still recovering, you can have someone else file on your behalf.

Sector-Specific Claims

Employees in some sectors may encounter additional challenges in their claims process due to the nature of their work.

The laws regarding contract and gig workers, in particular, are ever-evolving. Independent contractors who sustain an injury while carrying out their duties can speak to a workers’ compensation attorney to find out whether their medical expenses should be covered.

In some cases, a personal injury claim may be pursued alongside a workers' compensation claim. This could allow the employee to recover types of compensation not available through L&I.

Who Is Eligible for Workers' Compensation in the Tri-Cities, WA?

In Washington State, the following types of workers are usually eligible for workers' compensation:

• Full-time and part-time employees
• Seasonal and temporary employees
• W-2 employees who work from home and reside in Washington
• Some independent contractors, depending on the nature of their work

There are a few exceptions. For example, an employee who is the sole domestic worker in a private home is not usually eligible. Speak to Lehmbecker Law if you’re unsure whether you should be covered by workers’ compensation insurance.

When Does Workers' Compensation Not Apply in WA?

Workers' compensation doesn't cover all situations. A claim could be denied for:

• Intentionally self-inflicted injuries
• Injuries sustained while committing a crime
• Injuries that happen during voluntary off-the-clock recreational activities sponsored by a workplace
• Injuries that result from fights or horseplay unrelated to work duties
• Injuries sustained while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Outside of these situations, you should qualify for workers’ compensation benefits — even if the injury was due to your own oversight or error.

L&I Benefits Available in the Tri-Cities Area

Workers' compensation benefits in the Tri-Cities are designed to support you through recovery. They include:

• Payment for all necessary medical treatment
• Travel expense reimbursement for qualifying medical appointments
• Time-loss compensation to replace a portion of lost wages
• Permanent partial disability awards for lasting impairments
• Wrongful death benefits for families of workers who died due to work-related injuries

During your recovery, you may be asked to return to work. Your employer may offer you shorter hours or lighter tasks that meet any restrictions your doctor has imposed. If this option is offered to you, you must accept it in order to retain your workers’ compensation benefits.

Why You Need a Workers' Compensation Lawyer in the Tri-Cities

For workers in Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland, an attorney with local knowledge can relieve the stress related to seeking on-the-job injury compensation. Here's how a Tri-Cities workers' comp lawyer can help:

• Accurate filing: Filing a claim that fully represents the specifics of your Tri-Cities workplace injury.
• Uncommon claims: Taking on complex cases, such as occupational disease claims from the Hanford Site cleanup project.
• Comprehensive assessment: Identifying potential third-party claims, such as those involving equipment manufacturers in Pasco's agricultural sector.
• Effective negotiation: Engaging with insurance adjusters to secure fair compensation.
• Industry-specific representation: Understanding the terms relevant to your industry, whether it's viticulture in Benton County or tech manufacturing in Richland.
• Strategic appeals: Developing robust strategies to overturn claim denials, such as unjust denials for gradual onset injuries.

Our team combines an in-depth understanding of Washington law with knowledge of the specific occupational risks faced by workers in Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland.

Why Choose Lehmbecker Law for Your Workers' Comp Case?

When it comes to selecting a workers' compensation attorney in the Tri-Cities area, you need someone who not only understands the law but also appreciates the unique challenges faced by workers like you. Here's why Lehmbecker Law stands out as the right choice:

At Lehmbecker Law, we're more than just your legal representatives; we're your neighbors and your advocates. We understand the Tri-Cities community because we're part of it.

Contact us today for a free initial consultation, and let us deal with the legal work needed to secure your benefits!