I Work at Lowe’s and Got Injured
On Behalf of Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa | March 14, 2024 | Workers' Compensation
As of February 2023, Lowe’s had approximately 182,000 full-time employees and 125,000 part-time employees. All companies conducting business in Florida are required to carry workers’ compensation for employees.
If you are a Lowe’s employee who was injured on the job, you need to report your injury to your employer as soon as you can to claim benefits. If you wait too long, your claim may be denied.
The attorneys at Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa are here to discuss the risks of being a Lowe’s employee and workers’ compensation benefits that may be available to you.
Risks Facing Lowe’s Employees
Lowe’s home improvement stores are just one of many companies that operate out of massive warehouses. Warehouse workers sustain injuries due to several reasons, including slips and falls, falling objects, and musculoskeletal issues from repeatedly reaching overhead and bending.
Lowe’s warehouse workers also face a risk of heat stroke, which may cause disorientation and confusion. Since workers must unload pallets at such a fast pace, these employees can easily become overheated. This is especially dangerous during the summer months, with most warehouses not containing air conditioning or cooling systems.
While heat stroke left untreated can prove fatal, the long-term effects of heat stroke cannot be taken for granted. Heat stroke victims are more likely to develop heart and kidney conditions in later life.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Let us take a close look at the benefits included in Workers’ Compensation.
Medical Expenses
Workers’ compensation will cover any necessary medical care, treatment, and prescriptions associated with your work injury. You will not have to pay any medical bills; rather, these bills will be submitted by your physician to the insurance company for payment.
Be aware that the insurance carrier will have a list of pre-approved doctors that you are allowed to see. If you want your visit to be covered, you need to see a physician on this list. You are only allowed to switch doctors one time, and once you make the switch, you are not allowed to switch back.
Lost Wages
Workers’ compensation usually covers 66 2/3% of your average weekly wage (AWW). Compensation will not kick in immediately since Florida workers’ compensation does not normally pay for the first seven (7) days that you are out.
Am I Eligible for Workers’ Compensation Working for Lowe’s?
Most people who work for Lowe’s are employees, meaning that they are eligible to receive workers’ compensation. However, Lowe’s does hire independent contractors as part of the Lowe’s Installation Program. These independent contractors would not be entitled to the same insurance benefits.
Why Should I Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
A workers’ compensation attorney can help ensure that you are receiving the full extent of workers’ compensation benefits. Additionally, if your claim has been rejected, an attorney can assist in resubmitting your claim.
Contact a Florida Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
Our firm has been helping those injured on the job for nearly 40 years. When you hire a workers’ compensation attorney at Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa, you are hiring a legal advocate who is willing to speak on your behalf. Contact us online or by calling 866-640-7117 to schedule your free consultation.
Don’t wait - get an experienced attorney on your side to help you with everything that comes next so you can get the compensation you deserve or the advice you need when you need it most.