Remsen Workers Compensation Attorneys

Legal challenges following a workplace injury can be overwhelming. Our workers' compensation attorneys are here to assist. With relentless dedication and specialized knowledge, our team is devoted to advocating for the rights of injured workers. We ensure you receive fair treatment and the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on healing.

Hurt Working at Amazon: What Can I Do Now?

Amazon, the world's largest online retailer, hires thousands of new employees each week, including many delivery drivers. These drivers, whether employed directly by Amazon or through subcontractors like J & K Contracting, face physically demanding and potentially dangerous work conditions. In Iowa, challenges such as snow and ice can complicate the already tough job of delivering packages. Here’s what you need to know about the types of injuries Amazon drivers might sustain and how to handle them, including navigating the complexities of workers' compensation.

Types of Injuries Amazon Drivers Sustain

Falls: Falls are a common hazard for Amazon drivers. Slips on snow and ice, tripping over boxes in the van, or stumbling over landscaping at delivery sites can lead to broken bones, herniated discs, concussions, and other serious injuries.

Traumatic Injuries: These occur suddenly, such as when lifting a heavy box results in a torn rotator cuff or a herniated disc in the lower back. Traumatic injuries often require significant medical treatment, including surgeries like laminectomies or lumbar fusion to relieve pressure on nerves and stabilize the spine.

Cumulative Trauma: Also known as overuse syndrome, cumulative trauma results from repetitive tasks performed hundreds of times daily. This can cause neck and back injuries, knee problems from repeatedly entering and exiting the van, and carpal tunnel syndrome from handling packages. These injuries develop over time and can be difficult to attribute to a single event, but Iowa law recognizes both traumatic and cumulative injuries as eligible for workers' compensation.

Dealing with Pre-Existing Conditions

If your claim is denied due to a pre-existing condition, don’t give up. Iowa law allows for compensation if your work aggravated or accelerated a prior condition, resulting in new or worsened symptoms. While company doctors may attribute your issues to age or degenerative disc disease, it’s important to seek a second opinion. Many doctors in Iowa can provide a different perspective on your work-related injury.

Handling Claim Denials

Denials are common in the Iowa workers' compensation system, often because companies hope injured workers will give up. If your claim is denied, consult an experienced Iowa workers’ compensation attorney. They can help you understand your rights and gather necessary medical records and evidence at no cost to you.

Returning to Light Duty Work

When recovering from an injury, returning to work might involve light duty. If your employer can’t accommodate your restrictions, you may receive temporary total disability benefits until you can return to your previous job or until light duty work is available. If your employer refuses to provide work despite availability, seek legal assistance.

Tips for Staying Proactive:
- Maintain open communication with your employer.
- Keep all medical appointments and update your employer afterward.
- Work with a rehabilitation counselor to find solutions.

Workers' Compensation for Volunteers

Iowa generally requires a person to be an employee to be eligible for workers' compensation, with exceptions for certain volunteer roles, such as volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel. These volunteers receive compensation including medical care, mileage, and lost wages during recovery, with benefits based on either their regular job wages or 140% of the statewide average weekly wage.

Other Covered Volunteer Roles:
- Students in work-study programs.
- Elected and appointed officials, such as mayors and city council members.
- Inmates working within or outside of prison facilities.

Getting Legal Assistance In Remsen

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 Remsen 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.