Van Camp & Deissner Law Offices, 1707 W. Broadway Ave.,  Spokane, WA 99201

WORKPLACE INJURIES If you are injured on the job, whether through the fault of another or not, there is Good News and Bad News. The Good News is that you will likely be covered by Workers Compensation, in Washington known as Labor & Industries coverage. This will pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and in some cases if you are disabled, will provide either lump sum or pension benefits. The Bad News:  you can't sue your employer, or a coworker, and you can't recover for pain and suffering. What to do if you are injured If you are hurt at work, immediately report the injury to your superiors. Next, get medical treatment as promptly as possible.  The Doctor or ER will have the forms needed to file an L & I claim:  be sure to fill those out and send them in. Your Doctor will tell you if you can go back to work, and the Department will pay some of your lost earnings while you are off work. Frequently Asked Questions Can I be fired for missing work due to a covered injury? The answer is, yes and no.  The employer can't discriminate against you and must accomodate your injury if possible; but the employer is not required to create a job, or hold a job open if you can't work. Can I sue a third party? Yes.  If your injury was caused by someone other than your employer or a coworker, you can sue them, and you should. L&I will be repaid a portion of what they pay out on your claim out of any settlement you ultimately receive. The State Department of Labor & Industries Website can help with additional quesations. Lori Freund   is our Workers Comp Guru.  She can answer your questions, and help you through the system.  Give her a call, initial consultations are free.

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