Lake Oswego Work Injuries Lawyer

Dedicated Work Injury Attorneys Serving Lake Oswego, OR

Lake Oswego work injuries lawyer Work injuries are covered under workers’ compensation laws, a legal system designed to provide medical care and financial benefits to employees who are injured while performing job-related duties. These laws also establish the process injured workers must follow to seek benefits after a workplace accident. While workers’ compensation exists nationwide, each state—including Oregon—has its own statutes governing how work injury claims are handled. Certain workers, such as federal employees and employees in specialized industries, may also be covered by federal workers’ compensation programs.

Because work injury laws can be complex and highly fact-specific, consulting with an experienced Lake Oswego work injuries attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure you pursue the maximum benefits available under Oregon law.

In Oregon, most employers are legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect employees who suffer work injuries. Filing a workers’ compensation claim is similar to filing an insurance claim—it is not a lawsuit against your employer, but a request for benefits such as medical treatment, lost wages, and disability compensation.

However, workers’ compensation does not always limit your legal options. If your work injury was caused by a third party—such as a negligent contractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer—you may also have grounds to file a separate personal injury claim in addition to your workers’ compensation case.

How Do Work Injuries Occur?

Work injuries can occur in nearly any occupation, from office environments to construction sites. Some of the most common causes of workplace and work-related injuries include:

  • Slips, trips, and falls: Wet floors, uneven walking surfaces, poor lighting, and cluttered work areas frequently cause serious work injuries such as fractures, head injuries, and spinal shows.
  • Overexertion and lifting injuries: Lifting, pulling, or pushing heavy objects can lead to back injuries, muscle strains, and chronic pain conditions.
  • Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs): Repetitive tasks like typing, machine operation, or assembly line work may cause work injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.
  • Falls from heights: Construction, roofing, and warehouse jobs often involve elevated work areas, where falls can result in catastrophic work injuries.
  • Struck-by-object accidents: Tools, materials, or debris can strike workers, leading to traumatic work injuries, including concussions and internal injuries.
  • Machinery and equipment accidents: Defective or improperly maintained equipment can cause crushing injuries, amputations, and other severe work injuries.
  • Vehicle-related work injuries: Delivery drivers, warehouse employees, and workers operating forklifts or heavy machinery face increased risks of collisions and rollover accidents.
  • Exposure to hazardous substances: Chemical exposure, toxic fumes, or biological hazards may result in burns, respiratory illnesses, or long-term occupational diseases.
  • Fires and explosions: Electrical malfunctions and flammable materials can cause devastating burn-related work injuries.
  • Workplace violence: Assaults and physical altercations can cause serious physical and psychological work injuries, particularly in healthcare, retail, and law enforcement settings.

Recognizing how work injuries occur is essential for identifying liability and preventing future accidents. Employers have a legal duty to maintain safe working conditions, while employees must follow established safety protocols. When failures occur, a Lake Oswego work injuries lawyer can help determine responsibility and pursue appropriate compensation.

Legal Options After a Work Injury in Lake Oswego

If your work injury is not covered by workers’ compensation—such as when you are misclassified as an independent contractor or your employer failed to carry required insurance—you may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party.

In these cases, a Lake Oswego work injuries attorney from the Law Office of Randall J. Wolfe may be able to pursue damages not available through workers’ compensation, including compensation for pain and suffering, full wage loss, attorney’s fees, and, in certain cases, punitive damages.

Contact Our Lake Oswego Work Injuries Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one suffered a work injury in Lake Oswego or the surrounding areas, you do not have to navigate the legal process alone. An experienced Lake Oswego work injuries lawyer can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help after a serious work injury.