Alpharetta
USPS Workers’ Compensation Claims Lawyer

Have you sustained injuries associated with your role as an employee of the United States Postal Service (USPS)? While the USPS has measures in place to keep workers safe while on the clock, people can still end up sustaining injuries or developing illnesses at work. 

But did you know that USPS workers could be eligible to file a workers’ compensation claim for injuries sustained while on the job? At John Foy & Associates, we can represent you as your Alpharetta USPS workers’ compensation claims lawyer and help you understand your rights. 

With an Alpharetta workers’ compensation lawyer from The Strong Arm™ by your side, you can trust that our attorneys will have your back. With over 350 years of experience combined, we‘ve helped clients like you recover over $1 billion in personal injury claims.

An Overview of USPS Workers’ Compensation and the Role of FECA

The USPS is a federal agency, and as such, USPS employees are not covered by Georgia’s state-run workers’ compensation system. Instead, USPS workers receive coverage under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). 

This is a federal law that was originally designed to provide workers’ compensation benefits to federal employees, which include postal workers at the USPS. Under FECA, postal workers who are injured or fall ill while on the job can receive: 

• Medical treatments
• Wage replacement
• Other benefits to help them recover

USPS workers in Alpharetta—just like those across the nation—rely on FECA rather than Georgia’s state-based workers’ compensation system. That said, some aspects of the FECA claims process are similar to Georgia’s state-based workers’ compensation system. 

These include the need to report the injury promptly, the eligibility requirements, and the types of benefits available to workers. When you speak to your Alpharetta personal injury lawyer, your legal counsel will explain the similarities and differences as they pertain to your case. 

Types of Injuries Covered Under FECA

Postal workers in Alpharetta—like those in other parts of the country—face a range of potential injuries while on the job. FECA provides coverage for both traumatic injuries and occupational diseases that arise from the nature of the work. 

Let’s take a look at common types of injuries and conditions that might be covered under USPS workers’ compensation claims. 

Traumatic Injuries

These are injuries that occur suddenly. A specific incident typically causes them. For example, if a postal worker is hit by a vehicle while delivering mail or slips and falls while carrying a heavy package, those injuries may be classified as traumatic injuries under FECA. 

Traumatic injuries may include:

• Broken bones
• Sprains and strains
• Head injuries
• Other acute conditions 

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Many postal workers perform the same tasks repeatedly, such as sorting mail or lifting packages. Over time, these repetitive motions can lead to injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or back and neck pain. 

These types of conditions are considered occupational diseases. As such, they are covered under FECA as well.

Psychological Injuries

In some cases, psychological matters—such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—can be a result of the stress that people face as a result of working in certain environments. 

While mental health conditions can be more difficult to prove in workers’ compensation claims, postal workers may be able to receive compensation for these injuries if they can establish a clear connection to their work environment.

Illnesses Due to Exposure

USPS workers in certain roles may be exposed to hazardous substances, such as chemicals, mold, or infectious diseases. These exposures may lead to chronic illnesses like respiratory diseases and other work-related conditions. 

If you can prove that your illness is connected to your job duties, you may be entitled to benefits under FECA.

Challenges in the Claims Process

While the workers’ compensation system is designed to provide benefits for injured employees, the process can be confusing and overwhelming. However, you’re not alone—USPS workers’ compensation claims attorneys in Alpharetta are ready and willing to help you.

In the meantime, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared. Here’s what might come up if you decide to pursue a workers’ comp claim:

Claim Denials

Workers might face a denied claim. This can happen for several reasons, including insufficient evidence, failure to meet deadlines, or discrepancies in the worker’s reported injury. When a claim is denied, the USPS worker might need to appeal the decision, though your Alpharetta USPS workers’ compensation claims lawyers can help you with this rather lengthy process.

Delays in Benefits

Even if your claim is accepted, you may experience delays when it comes to receiving your benefits. This can be particularly frustrating for workers who rely on their wages to support themselves and their families.

Delays can occur due to administrative issues, disputes over the severity of the injury, or problems with medical documentation. This can help you plan accordingly. 

Disagreements Over Treatment

In some cases, there may be disagreements over the appropriate course of treatment for the worker’s injury. The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) might require you as the worker to see specific medical providers, which can result in major delays or lead to suboptimal treatment. 

Contact Our USPS Workers’ Compensation Claims Law Firm in Alpharetta for Help With Your Case  

Workers’ compensation is a helpful benefit that people can pursue after getting hurt in a work-related incident. If you were injured at your place of work, our Alpharetta USPS workers’ compensation claims lawyers from John Foy & Associates can help you explore your options within this system. 

All it takes is reaching out to our attorneys at your earliest convenience. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can review the details of your situation, identify the path that will lead to a favorable outcome in your case, and keep you informed throughout the entire legal process. 

While the claims process can be complicated, know that you are not alone. Call us as soon as possible to learn more about what we can do for you.