Worker Memorial Day Honors Those Who Died on the Job

Ryan Nute

Contributor

0 CommentsPrint ArticleSubscribe

112 Washington residents died in 2006 because of injuries sustained in the workplace. A memorial was held by the Washington Department of Labor & Industries in April, which was attended by Governor Chris Gregoire.

The ceremony has been held at the Department's headquarters in Tumwater for the past fourteen years.

Many people are surprised to learn that injured workers are generally limited to workers' compensation benefits for an on-the-job injury, even when caused by the negligence of the employer or a co-worker. However, there are many situations where a worker is injured on the job by the negligence of a third-party other than the employer or a co-worker. In such a case the worker can sue in court and recover damages caused by the negligence.

Read more: Adam Wilson, The Olympian