FedEx Worker Not Entitled To Compensation For Repetitive Injuries

When a person is injured in a New York workplace, they are entitled to compensation (except in a few exceptions). This is true even for repetitive injuries that lead to cumulative trauma. However, proving this can be quite the challenge.

That’s because there is so much fraud when it comes to government benefits. People are always trying to take advantage of the system. This makes it difficult for those who are truly injured.

One woman was trying to win a claim for workers’ compensation benefits but failed to do so because she did not meet the deadlines. The employee of Federal Express Corp., more commonly known as FedEx, claims she suffered cumulative trauma from years of physically demanding work. However, the court claims she is not entitled to medical and disability workers compensation benefits because she never gave her employer proper notice of her injuries.

The court denied the workers’ compensation claim filed by the Tennessee woman, even though she claimed that she suffered repetitive motion injuries to both knees. She sought an initial diagnosis for her injuries in October 2020. She later underwent an MRI and sought additional treatment.

During a hearing, the woman testified that she informed her manager about the injuries but was instructed to wait for the results of an MRI before submitting a workers’ compensation claim. However, the court ruled that the woman had to give notice to her employer within 15 days of the work injury. She did not give notice until late December 2020, which was two months after she sought a diagnosis.

The woman did inform her supervisor of the knee injuries, but she did not tell him that the injuries were work-related. Because of this, her claim was denied.

Why Are Workers’ Compensation Deadlines Important?

When it comes to filing a workers’ compensation claim, deadlines are important. Here are some reasons why:

• Timely medical treatment. Ensuring quick access to necessary medical care helps in the prompt diagnosis and treatment of work-related injuries or illnesses, which can prevent further complications.
• Employer notification. Promptly notifying employers about injuries ensures they can take immediate action to address safety concerns, prevent further incidents, and comply with their legal obligations to report the injury.
• Legal compliance. Meeting deadlines is crucial for complying with state-specific workers’ compensation laws. Failure to adhere to these deadlines can result in the forfeiture of benefits.
• Preservation of rights. Filing claims within the specified timeframe protects workers’ rights to receive compensation. Missing deadlines can lead to the denial of claims.

 Contact Us for More Information About Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workers’ compensation claims can be complex, especially when the injury is work-related but not a one-time event. Proving repetitive injuries over time is not an easy task.

A White Plains workers’ compensation lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon can help you with your claim. Even if your claim is not denied, speak with us to better understand your rights and the benefits to which you are entitled. Fill out the online form or call (914) 228-1770 to schedule a consultation.

Source:

businessinsurance.com/article/20240725/NEWS08/912365816/FedEx-worker-loses-bid-for-comp-benefits-for-repetitive-injuries-