Travel Refunds

When the city authorizes you to travel to a healthcare provider or job training appointment, you may be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses.

You will be reimbursed for all miles traveled for:

• An independent medical examination or other examination scheduled by the City.
• Vocational services
• Vocational retraining

If you must travel more than 15 miles from home (one way) for an authorized trip to receive treatment or for the fitting of a prosthetic device, you will be reimbursed for all mileage except the first 15 miles from your home and the last 15 miles of your return trip.

Out-of-pocket expenses for approved travel may include mileage, food, and lodging. These expenses will be reimbursed at L&I-set rates, which may be lower than your actual costs. You may also be reimbursed for additional transportation costs, such as parking fees, and for bridge and ferry tolls. Receipts may be required.

To ensure you receive reimbursement, make sure the City pre-approves your travel. Contact the city in advance to request pre-approval and find out what documentation they need to process your reimbursement request. You must submit your reimbursement request to the city within one year of the trip and clearly indicate the date, destination, and reason for the travel.

Property Damage Refunds

In some cases, your benefits may cover the cost of personal property damaged or lost due to a workplace injury. The same applies if those items are damaged or lost during emergency treatment provided on the scene. Receipts for repairs or replacement of articles are required. Copies of the receipts and your reimbursement request should be sent to the city or the city’s representative.

Motor Vehicle Modification

The costs of modifying a motor vehicle may be covered for workers who have suffered amputation or paralysis. Dollar limits apply. The modification must be necessary to meet the worker’s need for safe transportation. Any vehicle modifications must be pre-approved by the city or its representative.

Home Modification

Home modification costs may be covered for workers suffering catastrophic injuries. Dollar limits apply. Examples of catastrophic injuries include brain injury, paralysis, loss of one or more arms or legs, and severe or progressive lung or heart disease. The modifications must be necessary to meet the worker’s needs for safety, mobility, or activities of daily living. All home modifications must be pre-approved by the city or its representative.