Work Injury Lawyer in Tacoma
Representing Workers in the Counties of Pierce, Kitsap, Thurston & King
While you can suffer an injury in any working environment, many jobs are more physically demanding, putting continued and repeated strain on certain body parts. Furthermore, specific work environments are inherently more dangerous than others, such as construction sites, putting workers at higher risk of injury.
Fortunately, workers' compensation has been enacted to provide Washington state workers with medical, wage, and other benefits in the unfortunate event of a workplace injury.
At McCarthy Law Office, PLLC, we focus much of our practice on helping workers get the benefits they deserve when such injuries have disrupted their lives. With nearly two decades of professional experience, our work injury attorney in Tacoma puts genuine care, skill, and determination to work for you in these cases.
Work injuries can be overwhelming, not only physically but also emotionally and financially. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to cut through legal jargon and simplify the workers' compensation process. We know how crucial it is for you to receive timely benefits, so we proactively engage with all parties involved, ensuring your rights are upheld throughout the process.
Discuss your case with our Tacoma workplace injuries attorney in a free initial consultation. Contact us online or call (844) 224-5029 to make an appointment.
Workplace Injuries in Washington State
In Washington State, workers' compensation is designed to protect employees who suffer injuries or illnesses due to their jobs.
As mentioned above, some jobs carry a higher risk of injury, whether from the nature of the work or the work environment.
Workers who tend to suffer on-the-job injuries more than others include construction workers, industrial or warehousing workers, factory workers, dock workers, auto mechanics, waiters and waitresses, delivery workers, hospital workers, and anyone engaged in continuous repetitive motions that strain specific body parts.
The breadth of these injuries can be wide-ranging, affecting virtually all systems and functions of the human body. Understanding the risks associated with your occupation is vital for preventing injuries. Employing preventative measures, such as ergonomics training and using personal protective equipment, can significantly decrease the likelihood of injury. Both employers and employees need to maintain a culture of safety and awareness.
Understanding Tacoma-Specific Workers' Compensation Laws
Tacoma, along with the rest of Washington State, follows specific regulations regarding workers' compensation that can impact both the claims and benefits process. Familiarizing oneself with these local laws is crucial for any injured worker seeking rightful compensation. Washington State does not require employers to prove fault or negligence for an employee to receive benefits. This rule is particularly beneficial for workers who might be hesitant to report injuries for fear of retribution or blame.
State law requires all employers to provide coverage through the state’s Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) or approved self-insurance plans. As a leading work injury attorney in Tacoma, McCarthy Law Office, PLLC guides clients through each step of the L&I process, ensuring that claims are timely and accurately filed. Understanding these local nuances can make a significant difference in the speed and success of a compensation claim.
Common Industries and Work Injury Risks in Tacoma
Tacoma’s economy thrives on diverse industry sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and construction. Each of these sectors presents unique injury risks that workers must navigate. The manufacturing sector can expose workers to machinery-related injuries and overexertion, while healthcare workers may face risks from infectious diseases and patient-handling injuries. Meanwhile, construction sites, a prominent industry in Tacoma, present risks such as falls, equipment accidents, and exposure to hazardous materials.
Given these prevalent risks, Tacoma workers must understand their rights and the steps to take immediately following an injury. At McCarthy Law Office, PLLC, we provide clear guidance and advocacy to ensure that your journey toward recovery and rightful compensation is both efficient and thorough. Our commitment to personalized service ensures that individual circumstances are addressed with specificity and precision.
Types of injuries in the workplace
Work injuries can include, but are not limited to:
- Back injuries
- Knee injuries
- Neck injuries
- Head injuries, including concussions and brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Musculoskeletal disorders, such as in muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and discs
- Respiratory diseases due to exposure to harmful substances
- Hearing loss
Work-related illnesses can also occur due to high-stress jobs or environments, such as those with extended workloads, long hours, and intense pressure. These can lead to such illnesses as heart disease, high blood pressure, and mental health disorders.
Certain occupations can also result in skin diseases from exposure to chemicals, sun, or even due to regular contact with water. Workers in healthcare, cleaning, catering, and beauty are often exposed to these risks.
According to the National Safety Council, common on-the-job accidents that can result in work-related injuries include slip and fall incidents, falls from heights, being caught between machinery or moving objects, and being struck by falling objects. Repetitive motion is a primary source of injury, which can result in such conditions as carpal tunnel and deterioration of knees, hips, and backs.
Understanding these risks allows workers to take proactive steps in injury prevention. Implementing routine safety training, learning proper lifting techniques, or simply recognizing the signs of overuse can mitigate the risk of serious injury. Employers are encouraged to invest in workplace safety programs, reducing potential hazards, and ensuring a safer environment for everyone on site.
Client Testimonials
We Treat Our Clients Like People, Not Numbers
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“McCarthy Law helped update our will this fall. Very timely and nice group of people.”- Jan N.
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“Conor was great to work with! He listened to what I wanted and provided guidance without making me feel like I didn't know what I was doing. He communicated clearly, got things done right on schedule. I'll gladly work with him in the future if the need ari”- Julia E.
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“We needed to set up our wills and trusts as a blended family and he explained our options beautifully, walked us through the process, and made it simple and seamless. What could have been a stressful process, Conor made easy.”- Lisa V.
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From the first interaction to the final delivery, Conor was professional and courteous, took time to understand the legal issues, walked me through multiple scenarios and drafted the document I needed ahead of an aggressive timeline. He also took extra time to work with my legal plan to ensure it was a covered charge. I would gladly recommend him to friends and family.- Former Client
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“I get the impression my situation was not just a legal issue to be dealt with but that he really cared that things turned out for the best.”- Jeff W.
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“I would highly recommend this firm for wills and estate documents.”- B Hayes
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“His service, follow-up and approach are second to none.”- Charles J.
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“Conor was knowledgeable, friendly and prompt. He answered all our questions and explained things thoroughly to make sure we understood.- Jay B.
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