Jobs that involve heavy lifting, repetitive motions, long hours on your feet, or operating forklifts are hard on your body, and present a higher risk of accidents and injuries. If you’ve been hurt on the job, you may suddenly face steep medical bills and the added stress of lost wages while you recover. Fortunately, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits under Georgia workers’ compensation laws.
At Rechtman & Spevak, our experienced Fulton County workers' compensation lawyer understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a warehouse injury has on your life. We’re ready to help protect your rights and fight for the workers’ comp benefits you’re entitled to receive.
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Common Distribution Center and Warehouse Injuries
Industrial settings pose a particular set of hazards. From the fast-paced workflow to the constant use of heavy machinery and the strain of physical labor, employees face many potential dangers. Some of the most frequent injuries in these environments include:
- Forklift accidents. Improper operation, inadequate training, and overcrowded aisles contribute to serious forklift-related injuries. Crush accidents, fractures, organ damage, and even fatalities can occur.
- Falling object strikes. Improperly stacked boxes, unsecured pallets, and items falling from high shelves cause broken bones, head injuries, concussions, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Falls from heights. These accidents happen when scaffolds or ladders aren’t secure. Injuries include crushed bones, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, and TBIs. Tragic deaths also happen as a result of these incidents.
- Repetitive stress injuries. Constantly lifting, bending, and twisting leads to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and lower back strains. These injuries develop gradually, but can be debilitating.
- Overexertion and muscle strains. Lifting items that are too heavy, using improper body mechanics, and working long shifts without breaks cause acute muscle and ligament tears. Painful back injuries are prevalent.
- Slip and fall accidents. Wet floors, cluttered walkways, and poor lighting contribute to falls. These accidents result in broken bones, knee damage, and back, shoulder, and hip injuries.
What Steps Should You Take After a Warehouse Accident in Fulton County?
When you experience a job-related injury at a warehouse or distribution center, following the proper procedure to protect your workers' compensation claim is crucial. At Rechtman & Spevak, we recommend these essential steps:
- Report the incident to your supervisor right away. Under O.C.G.A. § 34-9-80, you have 30 days from the date of the injury to provide notice to your employer. However, you should report the injury immediately to avoid any questions about the cause or timing of your work accident. Verbal confirmation of the incident is common, but it’s best to do so in writing and keep a copy of the accident report for your records.
- Get medical care. Don’t delay, even if your condition seems minor at first. Your employer should provide you with a list of authorized medical providers who will treat you. It's crucial to seek treatment from an authorized provider to ensure workers' compensation covers your medical bills.
- Document your injury. To build a strong workers' compensation claim, it's essential to outline your warehouse injury and how it has affected your life and ability to work. This documentation includes evidence such as medical records, treatment plans, statements from witnesses who saw your accident, and pay stubs. You may also want to keep a journal where you detail your pain levels, symptoms, and how the injury impacts your daily activities.
- Consult with a legal advisor. Our knowledgeable Fulton County workers’ compensation attorney will guide you through the claims process, ensure your paperwork is completed correctly, and create a sound strategy to help you receive the maximum benefits for your physical and financial recovery.
What Workers’ Comp Benefits Can You Receive for Warehouse Injuries?
It’s important to understand the scope of workers’ comp benefits you’re entitled to under Georgia laws. If you don’t, your employer’s insurer could try to pay less than you deserve. Most employees are eligible for:
- Medical benefits. Workers' compensation should cover all reasonable and necessary medical treatment for your warehouse injury, including doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and surgery.
- Temporary disability benefits. If your medical condition prevents you from working, you may be eligible for temporary total or partial disability benefits to replace a portion of your lost wages.
- Permanent disability benefits. If your warehouse injury results in a permanent impairment, you may be entitled to permanent partial disability benefits.
- Vocational rehabilitation. Some people are unable to return to their previous duties because of their injury, but can still work in some capacity. Your benefits might provide vocational rehabilitation services to help you find new employment.
Get the Help You Need From an Experienced Fulton County Workers' Compensation Lawyer
The workers’ compensation claims process is often challenging when dealing with a painful warehouse injury. Trust in the guidance that Rechtman & Spevak provides as we:
- Evaluate your circumstances. We'll review the details of your warehouse injury and advise you on the strengths of your claim.
- File your claim. Our lawyer will electronically file a Board Form WC-14 to file your workers’ compensation claim with the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation.
- Gather evidence. Our team collects medical records, witness statements, and other documentation to reinforce your case.
- Negotiate with insurers. We'll work to secure a fair workers’ comp settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other benefits.
- Represent you in appeals. If your claim is denied or disputed, we will file a request for hearing before an administrative law judge to fight for the benefits you deserve.