Did you get hurt while working for the United States Postal Service (USPS)? The USPS should take measures to protect employees who are on the clock, but sometimes, people like you still suffer injuries at their place of employment.
At John Foy & Associates, we believe that personal injury victims deserve to seek justice. As your Albany USPS workers’ compensation claims lawyer, we can advocate for your rights and protect you throughout every step of the legal process.
Why not hire an Albany workers’ compensation lawyer from The Strong Arm™? With more than 350 years of collective experience, we’ve secured over $1 billion in compensation for injury victims just like you.
The Role of the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) in USPS Workers’ Compensation Cases
Enacted in 1916, FECA is a federal law that provides workers’ compensation benefits to federal employees, including those who work for the USPS.
While state workers’ compensation laws apply to private-sector employees, FECA specifically addresses two matters:
- Federal employees’ workplace injuries
- Federal employees’ workplace illnesses
This distinction is important because it means that USPS workers are not covered by Georgia’s state workers’ compensation laws. Instead, they must adhere to the federal system established by FECA.
Under FECA, USPS employees who are injured on the job are entitled to receive compensation for medical treatment, disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation. Ultimately, the main difference between state and federal systems is the process for filing a claim.
This process can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with it in the aftermath of your injuries. However, your Albany personal injury lawyer will inform you of the steps you need to take and do as much of the legal legwork as possible on your behalf.
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Types of Benefits Under FECA
Several types of benefits may be available to USPS workers who have suffered workplace injuries. Here are the primary benefits you can often pursue with the help of your Albany USPS workers’ compensation claims attorney:
Medical Benefits
USPS workers who sustain injuries while on the job are entitled to medical treatment. This includes surgical procedures, prescription medications, doctor visits, hospital care, and physical therapy, among other treatments.
In many cases, the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) will cover these costs without requiring the injured worker to pay out-of-pocket. That way, the injured worker can focus on healing instead of stressing about how to afford the care they need.
Disability Benefits
If the injuries result in either temporary or permanent disability, the person who got hurt at work might be entitled to disability benefits. These benefits are designed to replace a portion of the worker’s lost wages.
For temporary disabilities, workers typically receive two-thirds of their average weekly wage. Meanwhile, in cases where permanent disability is involved, the injured party’s benefits might continue for the duration of the worker’s life, though it all depends on the severity of the injuries in question.
Vocational Rehabilitation
In cases where an injury prevents someone from returning to their original job or holding the same occupation, vocational rehabilitation benefits may be applied. These benefits aim to cover the costs of retraining and reemployment services. This can help people transition into a new line of work.
Death Benefits
If a USPS worker dies as a result of injuries that they sustained at the workplace, then their surviving family members might be able to pursue death benefits. These can provide financial support to the deceased worker’s spouse, children, or other dependents.
Statute of Limitations Your USPS Workers’ Compensation Claims Attorney in Albany Will Ensure You Meet
A very important aspect of workers’ compensation for USPS employees is making sure you adhere to the legal time limits for filing your claim. While it may seem like a straightforward process, failing to file within a certain time frame can result in the denial of your claim.
Generally speaking, USPS workers must file their claims within three years of the day they sustained their workplace injuries. However, in cases of occupational diseases or illnesses, the deadline could be three years from the date the worker became aware of two details instead:
- The condition itself
- Its relation to their job
It is also important to note that certain types of benefits have different time restrictions. For example, a claim for medical benefits should be filed as soon as possible after the injury occurs. On the other hand, disability claims and other benefits may have more specific deadlines.
Ultimately, it’s beneficial to be diligent about filing your claim as soon as possible. Reach out to Albany USPS workers’ compensation attorneys to make sure you avoid losing your right to compensation.
Call Our USPS Workers’ Compensation Claims Lawyer in Albany for Legal Guidance Today
Filing a workers’ compensation claim as a USPS worker can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t have a support system backing you. However, that’s what John Foy & Associates can offer you. Our Albany USPS workers’ compensation claims attorneys will support you.
We can help you understand the specific procedures, expected timelines, and eligibility requirements of a workers’ comp claim. You can count on us to make sure your claim is filed in full and on time as well. Call us today to learn more—we’re here for you.
229-232-8678 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form