Understand your rights as an injured worker.
	Workers who are injured on the job and file a claim with L&I have rights. These include protection against discrimination for filing a claim, the right to protest L&I decisions, the right to change doctors and the right to take legal action against a "third-party" (someone not their employer) who may be responsible for the injury.
Questions workers have: Can my employer fire me for filing a claim? Your employer may not discriminate against you simply because you filed a claim. However, your employer may fire you and replace you with another worker if no one else can do your job and no light-duty jobs are available - or if your injury happened because you violated a safety rule. What if I think my injury was the fault of a third party? Washington's workers' compensation is "no-fault" insurance. Workers are covered regardless of what caused the on-the-job injury. However, if it was caused by the failure of a machine, product or someone who is not your coworker, you have the right to sue such a "third party." May I change doctors or seek a second medical opinion after my claim is filed? You may change doctors as long as your claim manager approves it. Use the Change of Attending Physician form. If you wish to get a second medical opinion — about your treatment or upcoming surgery, for example — call your claim manager for approval. If the accident was my fault, are my medical bills covered? Yes. You may receive benefits regardless of who was at fault. If my claim is closed and my injury worsens, may I apply to reopen my claim? Yes. You and your doctor may apply to reopen your claim if there is objective medical evidence (physical evidence your doctor can measure) that your medical condition is a result of the same injury and that it has worsened since the claim closed. What if I disagree with an L&I decision and want to protest? If you disagree with an L&I decision as your claim is being processed, you, your employer and your doctor all have the right to protest. Read protest instructions. What if I live or move out of state? Your rights, benefits and responsibilities for your claim will remain the same. Washington laws will always apply to your claim regardless of where you live. Many doctors and providers don't accept workers' compensation cases. Find a Doctor in your area.