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🧑‍🏭 Top Questions Injured Workers Ask About Washington State Workers’ Compensation and L&I

by | Jun 20, 2025 | Workers Compensation

🧑‍🏭 Top Questions Injured Workers Ask About Washington State Workers’ Compensation and L&I

If you’ve been injured on the job in Washington, you probably have questions—and you’re not alone. Every day, the workers’ compensation attorneys at Althauser Rayan Abbarno help injured workers understand their rights, navigate the system, and fight for the benefits they deserve.

Washington State’s workers’ compensation system is administered by the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). While it’s meant to protect injured workers, the process can be confusing, overwhelming, and filled with red tape.

Here are the top questions we’re asked by injured workers across Lewis, Thurston, Cowlitz, and all Southwest Washington and the answers you need to protect your claim.

🔟 1. Am I eligible for workers’ compensation benefits?

If you’re injured while working—even if you’re at fault—you may be eligible. This includes injuries from accidents, repetitive use, or even occupational illnesses. Most employees in Washington are covered, but independent contractors, gig workers, and volunteers may not be. We can help determine your status and fight if coverage is denied.

2. How do I file an L&I claim?

You can file:

  • Through your doctor’s office (they’ll submit the Report of Accident)
  • Online at lni.wa.gov
  • By phone with L&I

Time matters: you must report your injury as soon as possible, and you usually have one year to file a claim after the injury (two years for occupational disease).

3. What benefits does L&I provide?

Depending on your case, you may be eligible for:

  • Medical treatment coverage
  • Time-loss compensation (wage replacement)
  • Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) settlements
  • Vocational rehabilitation or retraining
  • Travel reimbursements
  • Pension benefits (for permanently disabled workers)

Every benefit depends on the nature and extent of your injury. A free consultation can help you determine what you’re entitled to.

4. What happens if my L&I claim is denied?

You have a limited time—usually 60 days—to appeal an L&I denial. Don’t wait. Many denials are based on incomplete records, biased medical opinions, or simple errors. We can represent you before the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals (BIIA) and advocate for your full recovery.

5. Can I choose my own doctor?

Yes—but the provider must be part of L&I’s Medical Provider Network (MPN). You don’t have to stay with a company-recommended doctor, and if you feel your current provider isn’t supporting your recovery, we can help you find someone who will.

6. What is an Independent Medical Exam (IME)?

An IME is a medical evaluation ordered by L&I or the employer—not for treatment, but to assess your claim. These doctors often downplay injuries, which can impact your benefits. You must attend, but you don’t have to go in blind. We’ll prepare you for what to expect and fight back against biased reports.

7. Will I lose my job if I file an L&I claim?

It’s illegal for employers to retaliate against workers who file valid claims. However, employers sometimes pressure or terminate workers unlawfully. We can advise you on your rights and, if needed, represent you in both workers’ comp and employment law cases.

8. What if I can’t return to my old job?

You may qualify for:

  • Light duty or transitional work
  • Vocational rehabilitation (Plan 1 or Plan 2)
  • Disability pensions

We’ll help you weigh your options, protect your benefits, and avoid costly mistakes.

9. Can I get a settlement?

Yes. If you have permanent physical impairment, you may qualify for a Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) award. Severely injured workers may qualify for structured settlements or pension benefits. We’ll work to secure the maximum award possible.

10. Do I need a workers’ compensation attorney?

You’re not required to have an attorney—but it can make all the difference. We don’t get paid unless you do, and our experience helps level the playing field against L&I and employers.

đŸ’Œ Get Help from Experienced Washington Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

At Althauser Rayan Abbarno, we’ve been helping injured workers in Washington for over 75 years. We understand the L&I system and how to get results.

We offer:

  • ✅ Free injury consultations
  • ✅ Local offices in Centralia
  • ✅ Experience with complex claims, denials, IMEs, and appeals

📞 Call today at (360) 736-1301
🌐 Or visit CentraliaLaw.com to schedule your free consultation.

Your job is to heal. Ours is to protect your future.