When injured on the job, workers’ compensation benefits can assist you – the employee – with medical and monetary benefits. We have 30+ years of experience in work injury law, helping employees file claims properly the first time and working through potential appeals processes. If you’re injured while working at Lowe’s, a work injury lawyer from Schaffer & Associates can help push your claim forward.
Lowe’s operates at least 80 stores in Ohio and employs 284,000 employees at its 1,746 locations.
Injuries that can occur include but are not limited to:
- Trauma from falling inventory
- Sprains and strains from lifting heavy objects
- Lacerations from tools, saws, and other equipment
- Broken bones from slip and falls
Workers who experience an illness or injury over time due to their duties may still be eligible for compensation.
Contact us to discuss your workers’ comp claim. We have offices in Toledo and Findlay to better serve you.
What Should You Do If You’re Injured on The Job While Working at Lowe’s?
Injuries and accidents should be reported to your supervisor as soon as possible. You’ll want to fill out an incident report form if an accident caused your injuries. It’s crucial to complete this step as timely as possible.
Your supervisor should alert you to any special requirements that they may have, such as going to a specific medical facility or provider to seek treatment. However, in Ohio, you have free choice of physician for treatment for work-related injuries as long as the physician is BWC certified.
When you’re done with the initial report, you’ll want to file a claim by following the instructions Lowe’s provides.
If possible, obtain copies of treatment notes and relevant testing reports to be used as evidence in your claim.
While your claim is being processed, you’ll still want to seek the medical attention and treatment necessary to heal from your injuries.
How Can An Attorney Help When Navigating A Lowe’s Workplace Injury Claim?
Filing a claim is extensive, and it can feel overwhelming if you’re also dealing with extensive back pain, head injuries, or other serious conditions. As your work injury lawyer, we’ll:
- Work through the claim application with you, ensuring that it’s completed in its entirety.
- Help you prevent common initial mistakes to avoid potential delays or denials.
- Seek the maximum benefits that you deserve for your injuries.
- Work through the appeal process if your initial claim is denied.
- Navigate the process for you so that you can focus on recovery.
We have decades of experience assisting hard-working Ohioans in seeking the benefits they deserve if they’re injured on the job. Our lawyers understand the complexities of the law and how we can strengthen your original claim to reduce the risk of denial.
Is Having Workers Compensation Mandatory in Ohio?
If you have one or more employees, the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation does require workers’ comp coverage. Employers must fill out an application with the Bureau, which will require details about the business.
Some employers, usually major corporations like Lowe’s, will often self-insure. An employer that self-insures takes on the financial risk to provide benefits to employees.
What If I’m Not Yet Cleared to Return to Work?
If your treating physician determines that you’re not ready to return to work, it’s best to stay home and follow their instructions. Returning to work too early can result in re-injury.
Your doctor may recommend additional treatment or rehabilitation to improve the condition.
Medical clearance is an essential step in the process of returning to work and helps ensure that you are physically and mentally ready to perform your duties without risk of injury.
Once your physician does provide medical clearance, you and your employer can develop a return-to-work plan to ensure a successful return.
How Does Workers’ Compensation Work?
Workers’ compensation provides protection for employees who are injured while on the job. It provides compensation to cover the cost of:
- Medical care
- Temporary or permanent disability
- Lost wages
Workers may also be entitled to other benefits.
In the case of a self-insured entity like Lowe’s, the employer should provide information about their process to file a claim. It’s important to remember that state rules may trump those of an employer. For example, injured workers have a one-year statute of limitations to file their claim, regardless of what their employer may tell them. Generally, it will look something like this:
- Submit an accident report within 24 hours of the incident or awareness of the illness or injury.
- File a workers’ compensation claim as per the employer’s instructions. Your claim should be supported by medical evidence.
- The employer’s third-party administrator will handle the process, and the company will be the one to determine whether a claim is approved or denied.
- If approved, the third-party administrator will handle the payments for any coverage you’ve been approved for.
If your claim is denied, the next step is to file a claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and then attend a hearing with the Industrial Commission (IC). The process can get increasingly more complicated from here. Having a work injury lawyer experienced in Lowe’s workplace injuries in your corner is crucial. Your lawyer can help you prepare for the hearing, understand your rights, and guide you through the steps ahead.
How Long Does It Take for an Injured Workers Claim to Be Approved?
Every case is unique. The length of time it takes to approve a claim can vary, depending on several factors.
Lowe’s is a self-insured entity, so it will be responsible for approving or denying your claim. Typically, decisions are made within 30 days of filing the claim.
Initial claims are frequently denied. If that happens, the appeals process can drag out and delay your compensation and benefits. Cases involving self-insured employers, in particular, can be more complex and, at times, can take longer to resolve.
Deadlines must also be kept in mind. Having the help of an experienced work injury attorney can make the process less stressful and overwhelming.
How Schaffer & Associates Can Help You Following Your Lowe’s Workplace Injury
If you were injured while working at Lowe’s, the experienced and compassionate attorneys at Schaffer & Associates can help you navigate the claim process.
We’ve been helping clients obtain the workers’ compensation benefits they need and deserve for more than three decades.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our team.
