If you’ve been hurt at work in Washington State, it’s important to act quickly to protect your health and your rights. The workers’ compensation attorneys at Althauser Rayan Abbarno want you to understand how to file a Labor & Industries (L&I) claim and what steps you should take after an injury on the job.
What to Do Immediately After a Work Injury
Before your claim is filed, make sure you:
- Get medical help. Your health and safety come first. See a doctor as soon as possible.
- Tell your employer. Report your injury right away to your supervisor or HR department.
Filing Your L&I Claim
The process for filing depends on whether your employer is self-insured or covered directly by Washington State L&I:
- If your employer is self-insured: You must file your claim with them. Contact your employer’s personnel or HR department for guidance.
- If your employer is not self-insured: You will file directly with L&I.
Information You’ll Need to File Your Claim
Gather the following information before you begin your claim:
- Location where the injury occurred
- Contact information for any witnesses
- Employer information
- Wage information
- Names and birth dates of your dependents
If you have already seen a doctor, you’ll also need:
- Your doctor’s first and last name
- The hospital or clinic where you received treatment
How to File a Claim
L&I offers several options for filing your claim:
- Online: Use the L&I File Fast tool
- By phone: Call 1-877-561-FILE (3453)
- At your doctor’s office: If you complete the Report of Accident at your doctor’s office, the doctor will file the form for you
Deadlines to File
- Workplace injuries: Your Report of Accident must be filed within 1 year of the injury date.
- Occupational diseases: The claim must be filed within 2 years from the date your doctor first diagnosed the condition.
What Happens After Filing
- Your doctor has 5 days to send the accident report to L&I or your self-insured employer.
- Processing times vary, but if you are eligible for wage-replacement benefits, and no additional information is required, you should receive your first benefit check within 14 days.
Why Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney?
The claims process can be confusing, especially if your claim is denied, delayed, or if your benefits don’t cover your lost wages and medical care. The experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Althauser Rayan Abbarno can help you:
- Make sure your claim is filed correctly
- Protect your rights during the claims process
- Appeal denied or delayed claims
- Maximize the benefits you are entitled to under Washington law
Contact Althauser Rayan Abbarno Today
If you’ve been injured at work, don’t go through the L&I claims process alone. Call Althauser Rayan Abbarno for a free consultation at (360) 736-1301.
We have offices in Centralia and Olympia and also provide consultations in Spanish.
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