Accidents in the workplace can be devastating, affecting your physical health and financial security. Whether you’ve been injured in an industrial accident, a slip and fall, or using faulty equipment, Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers can help you navigate the legal process. Our team of workplace accident attorneys in Tacoma, WA is committed to pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Workplace Accidents
Workplace accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of workplace accidents in Tacoma include:
- Unsafe working conditions: Failure to follow safety protocols or maintain a safe work environment can lead to accidents.
- Slip and fall hazards: Wet floors, uneven walking surfaces, or poor lighting can cause slips, trips, and falls.
- Faulty or defective equipment: Workers injured by malfunctioning equipment or machinery may have a case against the manufacturer or employer.
- Lack of proper training: Inadequate training can lead to preventable accidents, especially when workers handle dangerous materials or machinery.
- Exposure to hazardous materials: Toxic chemicals, asbestos, or other dangerous substances can cause long-term health issues if workers are not protected from exposure.
Common Workplace Accident Injuries
Workplace accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may lead to permanent disabilities. Common injuries include:
- Back and neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Burns
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Electrical accidents
- Spinal cord injuries
- Brain injuries
- Crush injuries
- Internal injuries
These injuries can have a lasting impact on your ability to work and may require extensive or a lifetime of medical care.
How You Will Be Compensated: Two Types of Claims
After a workplace accident, there are two avenues for pursuing compensation:
Personal Injury Claims
These are lawsuits filed against an employer or a third party (like a contractor or equipment manufacturer) when an employee is injured due to negligence or intentional wrongdoing. The compensation for this type of claim is more wide-ranging. The injured party seeks damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other losses related to the injury. This claim can be filed up to three years after the accident, though for optimum results, it should be filed immediately.
Workers’ Compensation Claims
These are claims made through Washington’s state-mandated insurance program that protects your employer from lawsuits and benefits to employees injured on the job. Even if the accident was found to be the employee’s fault, they are still covered. Workers’ compensation covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages. Employees must follow specific procedures to file a workers’ compensation claim. If your injury was caused by the negligence of another, not your employer, you may also be entitled to pursue additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
