Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Bellevue

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Bellevue, Washington?

  For non-emergency situations, individuals can contact the Bellevue Police Department at 425-577-5656.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Bellevue, Washington?

  You can request a copy of a police report online through the City of Bellevue's public records website at https://bellevuewa.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(ieoh4qn0di5zmg3ohzuetja0))/SupportHome.aspx. You can also send a request via mail to Bellevue Police Department, Public Records Request, P.O. Box 90012, Bellevue, WA, 98009.

• What are the benefits available for Bellevue workers that were injured on the job?

  Bellevue workers are entitled to several types of benefits if they're injured while on the job such as time loss compensation and medical care. They're also entitled to a pension if they can't return to work because of their injury, and their spouse and children are entitled to a monthly pension if the injury results in death.

• If an injured person in Bellevue can't return to their old job, are they instead guaranteed a new job with the same pay?

  No, employees in Bellevue are not guaranteed a new job with the same wage if they are not able to return to their old work. Once a doctor determines the individual fit to work or when a vocational counselor finds them employable, their compensation for time loss will end. It also won't be the responsibility of the Department of Labor & Industries to find the person a job.

• How long does an injured worker have to take legal action in Bellevue?

  A person injured on the job at Bellevue will have one year from the date of the incident to file a Report of Industrial Injury. For occupational diseases that were caused at least in part by their work, employees will have two years to file a report, starting from the day a medical professional gives them notice of the existence of the disease.

• Can Bellevue employees be fired while on workers' compensation?

  Bellevue employees can be fired while they are on workers' compensation, but they cannot be fired for filing a claim. Washington is an "at-will" state, which means an employer is not required to follow specific steps or give warnings to fire someone. Employers only need to provide a reason to terminate an employee, even while on workers' compensation, such as restructuring that eliminated the worker's previous position or company layoffs due to financial situation.

• Can a person reopen their workers' compensation claim in Bellevue?

  Yes, a person can reopen their workers' compensation claim in Bellevue within seven years after their claim first closed. To reopen the claim, there needs to be evidence that there was an objective worsening of their condition since the date of closure. The individual's doctor should evaluate them to see if there is medical evidence of their health deteriorating and help them apply to reopen the claim.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.