Workers Compensation in Washington
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Washington operates a state-run monopoly system; all employers must participate, and workers cannot sue employers for negligence.
How Washington treats Workers Compensation
Washington's Department of Labor & Industries administers the only workers' compensation insurance system in the state—employers cannot purchase private coverage. This monopoly system provides comprehensive medical benefits and wage replacement (typically two-thirds of wages) without requiring workers to prove employer negligence. In exchange, employees generally cannot sue their employer in civil court for work injuries, creating a no-fault trade-off that prioritizes quick claim resolution.
The general definition of Workers Compensation
Insurance that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees injured during work.
Workers compensation is a form of insurance that employers are required to carry to protect employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. When an employee is hurt at work, workers compensation covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages while the employee recovers. In exchange, the employee generally gives up the right to sue the employer for the injury. The system is designed to provide quick, predictable benefits without the need for a lawsuit. Benefits vary by state and depend on the severity of the injury.
Read the full Workers Compensation entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Washington.