Tacoma Workers’ Comp Lawyers Helping Injured Workers Return To Work In Light Duty Capacity
After a workplace injury, you may be ready to return to work, but not in the full capacity you once worked in. When you are trying to return to work, you can use Washington’s light duty law to protect yourself and your income. With the help of experienced workers’ compensation attorneys, you can have peace of mind and safely perform your job without jeopardizing your health.
When you come to Smith Duran Law, you can meet with our Tacoma workers’ comp lawyers, who are dedicated to helping injured workers return to work after accidents. They know the difficulties of recovering from a workplace injury, and they want to be the ones to help you achieve some level of stability after your accident by using the full extent of their legal abilities and the light duty law.
What Is Washington State’s Light Duty Law?
Washington’s light duty law allows injured workers to return to work in a capacity that aligns with their medical restrictions. This law is meant to ensure that injured workers can continue to earn income and benefits while they are going through the recovery process. “Light duty work” refers to any tasks that are not very physically demanding, especially compared with the injured worker’s regular duties, and performing them can mean a smoother process of returning to work. As your legal representation through your workers’ compensation needs, our lawyers can help ensure that your employer is compliant with these and other laws.
Common Examples Of Light Duty Or Transitional Work
Light duty or transitional work can take many forms, depending on the nature of your injury and the requirements of your job. Common examples include:
- Shorter hours: Working less means more time recovering from injuries.
- Modified duties: Scaling down the responsibilities of an injured worker allows them to better acclimate to their job.
- Different duties: Assigning some new responsibilities can keep the injured worker occupied without risking their health.
- Adjusted worksite: Using tools, equipment or appliances can reduce physical strain and meet your medical needs.
- New job creation: Developing a new position within your employer’s organization can better fit your restrictions.
To help accommodate an injured worker, employers may be able to seek reimbursement through certain programs, including the Stay at Work program, to cover some of the cost of wages and other expenses from the light duty work.
Does Performing Light Duty Work Affect Your Earnings?
Returning to work in a light duty capacity can affect your earnings, but there are protections in place. For example, if your light duty work pays less than you originally earned, then you may be able to receive loss of earning power (LEP) benefits to make up the difference between your old and new incomes.
By communicating with your employer and doctor, you can ensure that you are protecting your health while working. It is important to note that you may lose LEP or other benefit eligibility if you refuse a light duty position.
Return To Work On Your Terms
Our Tacoma workers’ comp lawyers are here to help you earn the income you need after your workplace accident. Call us at 877-557-5144 or email us here to schedule your initial consultation and get the assistance you deserve today.