Milford Workers Compensation Attorneys

Legal obstacles following a workplace injury can be challenging. Our workers' compensation attorneys are here to guide you. With steadfast dedication and expert skills, our team is committed to advocating for injured workers' rights. We ensure fair treatment and proper compensation, so you can concentrate on getting better.

Navigating Workers’ Compensation Claims for FedEx, UPS, and USPS Employees

Injuries sustained while working for delivery companies such as FedEx, UPS, Amazon, or the United States Postal Service (USPS) can lead to different workers’ compensation processes based on the employer. Understanding these processes is crucial to protecting your rights and securing the benefits you deserve.

Corporate Delivery Companies vs. Federal Employers

If you are injured while working for corporate delivery companies like FedEx, UPS, or Amazon, you are covered by state workers’ compensation laws. However, if your injury occurs while working for the USPS or another federal entity, your case falls under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). It’s important to note that most Iowa attorneys, including our firm, do not handle FECA claims and typically refer such cases to specialized attorneys.

Protecting Your Rights After a Work Injury

If you are injured while working for a corporate delivery company, consider the following steps to ensure your rights are protected and avoid common mistakes:

1. Reporting Your Injury: Immediately report your work injury to your employer in writing. Keep a copy of the incident report. This is especially important for traumatic injuries. Iowa law allows up to 90 days to report an injury, but prompt reporting is essential to avoid complications.

2. Readiness to Work: If your doctor releases you to work with restrictions, inform your employer and express your willingness to work within those restrictions. Failure to do so can result in the forfeiture of weekly benefits. If the work offered causes problems, report this to your employer and consult your doctor about adjusting your restrictions.

3. Continued Treatment: Follow through with all recommended treatments, such as physical therapy, even if there are delays in approval from workers’ compensation. Not completing prescribed treatments can negatively impact your case and your recovery.

4. Following Doctor’s Orders: Adhere to all medical restrictions both at work and home. Workers’ compensation insurers may use surveillance to monitor compliance. Violating your doctor’s orders can harm your credibility and result in financial losses.

5. Working Within Restrictions: If asked to perform tasks outside your restrictions, refer to your doctor's guidelines. Keep a copy of your work restrictions accessible to show your employer if needed.

6. Avoid Discussing Retirement: Discussions about retirement can be used against you to reduce compensation. It’s advisable to avoid mentioning any plans for retirement during your workers’ compensation case.

Dealing with Bulging Discs

Bulging and herniated discs are common spinal issues that can cause significant pain and disability. If you have a bulging disc, it does not automatically mean you will have pain. Many people with bulging discs are asymptomatic. However, if you experience pain radiating to your arms, hands, legs, or feet, seek immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of a bulging disc include:
- Pain in the buttocks, hips, legs, shoulders, or arms.
- Weakness and numbness.
- Discomfort that worsens with lifting, bending, walking, sitting, standing, or at night.

Treatment options may include anti-inflammatory medications, epidural injections, or surgery.

Checking Workers’ Compensation Claim Status in Iowa

To check the status of your workers’ compensation claim in Iowa, contact your attorney or the workers’ compensation insurance company handling your claim. You can also reach out to the Iowa Division of Workers’ Compensation at 515-281-5387 or (800) JOB-IOWA.

Several factors can delay the settlement process, including disputes over the injury’s work-related nature or the degree of impairment. If your claim is denied, you may need to appeal the decision with the Workers’ Compensation Commissioner.

If your attorney is not providing updates on your case, consider finding new representation. Ensure that any attorney you hire maintains open communication and provides regular updates on your case.

Getting Legal Assistance In Milford

Navigating the complexities of Iowa workers' compensation laws can be daunting, especially during the recovery process from a workplace injury. Seeking guidance from a seasoned Milford Workers' Comp attorney is invaluable in ensuring your rights are protected and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Legal professionals play a pivotal role in gathering evidence, preparing documentation, and advocating for your interests throughout the claims process. Don't risk missing out on the compensation you deserve – enlist the support of a qualified attorney to navigate the complexities with confidence.

The Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 641-792-3595.