As one of the world’s largest transportation companies, FedEx has a responsibility to ensure the safety of its 400,000 employees. However, the rapid growth of online shopping and the demanding nature of the job has led to an increase in work-related injuries among FedEx employees. If you are an injured FedEx driver, then talk to our Los Angeles injured FedEx driver lawyer who specializes in handling injured FedEx drivers’ worker compensation claims. Let’s explore the workers’ compensation claims process for FedEx employees who have suffered injuries on the job, and how a work injury lawyer can assist you in navigating the complex system.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides financial benefits to employees who are injured on the job. It is a no-fault insurance system, which means that injured workers can receive benefits regardless of who is at fault for the injury.
1. Purpose of Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation laws are primarily intended to ensure that employees who are injured at work receive compensation for their injuries. However, workers’ compensation also protects employers by prohibiting (in most cases) injured employees from filing personal injury lawsuits against employers based on work-related injuries.
2. Employer Requirements for Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Every state requires certain employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. As a global company with a large workforce, FedEx is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for its employees.
3. Types of Benefits Provided by Workers’ Compensation
In most states, injured workers can receive the following workers’ compensation benefits:
- Reasonable and necessary medical expenses (doctor visits, hospital bills, prescriptions, physical therapy, etc.)
- Wage loss benefits
- Death benefits for certain dependents
Wage loss benefits are calculated according to the nature of the injury. But the amount you receive is generally ⅔ of your average weekly wages if you can’t work (subject to a statutory maximum).
Or ⅔ of the difference in your average weekly wages (subject to a statutory maximum) if you can return to work but can’t return to the same job. Workers’ compensation checks are not taxable.
Common Causes and Types of FedEx Employee Injuries
FedEx employee injuries are on the rise in the United States. The rate of time off taken after non-fatal injuries has risen 28% since 2017, according to the company’s own data. FedEx workers’ compensation claims are typically filed by:
- Warehouse workers who sort and load packages at FedEx
- Delivery drivers working at FedEx
1. Warehouse Worker Injuries
Warehouse workers at FedEx typically suffer back injuries from loading heavy packages. They also face threats posed by heavy machinery and harmful chemicals. Common injuries sustained by FedEx warehouse workers include:
- Back injuries from lifting heavy packages
- Injuries from slips, trips, and falls
- Injuries from being struck by machinery or falling objects
- Chemical exposure injuries
2. Delivery Driver Injuries
Delivery truck drivers face many of the same risks that warehouse workers face, but they also face the possibility of being involved in a motor vehicle accident. This risk is significant when you consider the fact that FedEx drivers are often busiest around the holidays, often driving through snow to deliver last-minute packages. Common injuries sustained by FedEx delivery drivers include:
- Injuries from motor vehicle accidents
- Injuries from lifting heavy packages
- Slips, trips, and falls-related injuries
- Injuries from being struck by vehicles while delivering packages
The Workers’ Compensation Claims Process for FedEx Employees
The process for filing a workers’ compensation claim varies from state to state, but there are five common steps:
- Report your injury: You have a certain number of days to report your injury in writing to your employer. Not sure how many days you have? Reach out to an experienced work injury lawyer in your state or contact your local workers’ compensation agency.
- Seek medical care: In most states, FedEx selects your treating physician. However, in the event of a medical emergency, you can typically seek treatment from any medical professional and still receive coverage.
- Wait for FedEx to file an insurance claim: It’s FedEx’s responsibility to file a claim with their workers’ compensation insurer once you provide the company with written notice of your injury. If FedEx refuses to file a claim, contact a work injury lawyer or your local workers’ compensation agency.
- Wait for a decision from the insurer: Your workers’ compensation insurer must make a decision within a certain time period (this time period varies depending on your state). Most claims are denied because the insurance company didn’t believe the injury was work-related or there was a lack of information concerning the injury.
- Denied? Talk to an attorney: All states have some type of appeal process if your workers’ compensation claim is denied. Hiring an experienced Los Angeles injured FedEx driver lawyer to handle your appeal is strongly recommended.
When to Consult a Los Angeles Injured FedEx Driver Lawyer in Case of Workplace Injury
If you’re a FedEx employee who has suffered a work-related injury, it’s essential to consult a Los Angeles injured FedEx drivers lawyer in the following situations:
- Your workers’ compensation claim has been denied
- If you’re unsure of your rights and the benefits you’re entitled to
- You believe that your employer is not fulfilling its obligations under the workers’ compensation system
- If you’re considering filing a third-party lawsuit in addition to your workers’ compensation claim
An experienced Los Angeles injured FedEx driver lawyer will be able to guide you through the complex workers’ compensation system, ensuring that you receive the benefits you deserve.
Exceptions to Workers’ Compensation for Injured FedEx Drivers as an Exclusive Remedy
Although workers’ compensation is typically the sole remedy for employees who suffer work-related injuries, there are some important exceptions that might apply to your case:
- Employees in some states can reject workers’ compensation coverage. If an employee rejects coverage before their injury occurs, the employee retains the right to pursue a civil lawsuit against FedEx.
- If an employee is injured through the “willful misconduct” of FedEx, the injured employee can typically file a civil lawsuit against the employer.
- If the employee’s injury was caused by a third party (someone other than the employer or a colleague), the employee can file a workers’ compensation claim and sue the third party. Third-party lawsuits are common in situations in which a FedEx driver is hit by a third-party driver.
How a Los Angeles Injured FedEx Driver Lawyer Can Help You?
A work injury lawyer can assist you in various ways throughout your workers’ compensation claim process, including:
- Advising you on your rights and the benefits you’re entitled to
- Helping you file your workers’ compensation claim and gather the necessary documentation
- Representing you during hearings and appeals if your claim is denied
- Assisting you in filing a third-party lawsuit if necessary
By enlisting the help of a Los Angeles injured FedEx driver lawyer, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve following a work-related injury at FedEx.
Pacific Attorney Group Offers Free Consultation
FedEx employees who have suffered work-related injuries have the right to seek workers’ compensation benefits. However, the process can be complex and overwhelming, especially when dealing with the aftermath of an injury. By consulting a work injury lawyer, you can navigate the system more effectively and ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced Los Angeles injured FedEx driver lawyer for assistance with your workers’ compensation claim.