Although unfortunately, every year, several workers are injured because of unsafe conditions at their workplace. Workplace accidents can be life-threatening and result in several damages such as medical injuries, disabilities, and lost income. Workers’ compensation allows injured employees to seek compensation for their damages in exchange for the condition that they cannot sue their employer.
The procedure involved in seeking workers’ compensation following the accident can be complex. It is best to consult an attorney in Everett, WA, that specializes in personal injury law and has experience handling workers’ compensation claims. They assess your situation in-depth and provide you with the guidance you need.
Who is held accountable for your injuries?
- Your employer.
In most situations, your employer is liable for the injuries you suffered in the workplace. Their responsibility is to provide their employees with a safe working environment to prevent any accidents from occurring. If they are irresponsible and create unsafe working conditions, it can lead to accidents. It also does not specifically have to be your employer’s fault that resulted in your injury. As long as the injury is related to your job, you are entitled to workers’ compensation.
- A third party.
Often, your injury can be because of faulty equipment or malfunctioning machinery. In such cases, you can also file a personal injury lawsuit against the third party, such as the manufacturer of that defective equipment, along with filing for a workers’ compensation claim.
What are some damages you can recover through workers’ compensation claims?
- Medical expenses: Workers’ compensation pays for the medical treatment the victim requires because of their injuries.
- Time loss compensation: Workers who cannot work temporarily because of their workplace injuries are paid a certain percentage of their lost wages.
- Loss of earning capacity: If the injuries reduce the victim’s capabilities to earn income, they can seek compensation for loss of earning capacity.
- Vocational training: If a worker is unable to continue in the same field of work as their job because of injuries, they are provided with training to seek employment in a new field.
- Lifetime pension: If a worker has suffered from permanent and total disability because of a workplace accident, they are entitled to a lifetime pension.
A skilled workers’ compensation attorney in Everett can help you maximize your workers’ compensation claim. They assess all your damages and enable you to fight for fair compensation. Their presence can significantly ease your distress during this challenging time.
