If you were injured in a workplace-related accident at your Washington job, you might be thinking what your next step should be. Asking your employer to pay for your damages, especially when the amount goes up to thousands of dollars, can be daunting. It is easy to be intimidated, which is why it is important to know your rights under workers’ comp.
If your employer has workers’ comp insurance, you have several benefits under the program. You should know what to expect if you get hurt while working. To get more clarity on the subject, you can speak to an Everett Workers’ Compensation Attorney. Meanwhile, read the blog to learn about worker rights.
Rights of injured workers under worker’s comp insurance.
- Property damage reimbursement.
It is possible to replace personal clothing or protective equipment that was damaged or lost in the workplace. Make sure to keep all the receipts for the replacement or repair of personal belongings and provide a copy to your claim manager.
- Your payroll deduction helps pay for your benefits.
Workers’ compensation covers medical costs and lost income in the case of an injury. In severe circumstances, it may also include vocational retraining, a lifetime pension, or a permanent disability award. Establishing an L&I account is necessary for any employer who plans to hire employees in Washington. This organization is in charge of reviewing claims and distributing benefits from the state fund.
- Travel reimbursement.
Travel mileage, parking, tolls, meals, hotel, and lost pay will all be reimbursed if pre-authorized. You have to keep all invoices and receipts and give copies to your claim manager.
- You can choose your physician.
Not all doctors, but the majority of them, are licensed providers. You can typically go to your personal doctor or the emergency department if you are hurt at work, and you can be confident that they will be an authorized provider. Make sure to tell the first doctor you see that you were harmed at work since they will need to file the Worker’s Compensation claim application on your behalf. The payment of any associated medical expenses including the prescribed drugs, will be made after your claim has been filed.
- Legal counsel.
When it comes to workers’ compensation claims, you have the right to consult with an attorney. Seek legal advice if you have any doubts about workers’ compensation laws. You are free to select any lawyer you like. You also have the right to review the attorney’s fees for reasonableness.
Hire an attorney today to protect your rights in a workplace accident.