On Behalf of Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa | May 18, 2024 | Workers' Compensation
Target is a major retail corporation in the United States that enjoys a yearly revenue of over $1.9 billion. Target is known for the convenience it provides customers with and its efficiency in delivering products. However, Target's workers are placed under high stress daily to get shipments to consumers on a very tight schedule.
With the pressures placed on Target employees, it is no wonder that Target workplace injuries happen so frequently. With hundreds of employees suffering injuries annually, the problem is only slated to continue in the coming years.
If you suffered an injury while working at Target, our West Palm Beach workers’ compensation attorneys will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Injuries Facing Target Employees
It is estimated that over 5.5 million people work in the warehouse industry. Employees who work in Target’s distribution center must lift heavy boxes, stock higher-level shelves, and operate dangerous equipment. Warehouse workers must climb ladders, operate a forklift, and move pallets.
All of these tasks are extremely hazardous. If an employee is not adequately trained on the equipment, the individual risks hurting themselves and others.
Target warehouse workers are prone to the following injuries:
- Bruises or contusions
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Back injuries
- Repetitive motion injuries
Do I Qualify for Workers’ Compensation as a Target Employee?
All employers in the state of Florida with four or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. With Target having over 400,000 employees, the conglomerate is required to provide this benefit to employees.
According to Florida Statute §440.12, you will not be eligible for benefits for the first seven days of your inability to work. However, you will begin receiving benefits if the workplace-related injury or illness prevents you from working for at least 21 days.
Can I Sue My Employer?
Workers’ compensation protects employers from being sued by employees. That being said, if the employer failed to meet certain workplace standards, as set out by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, you may be eligible to sue Target itself.
If you are considering this option, it is best if you speak with a workers’ compensation lawyer. Bringing a case to court is an expensive process, costing you both time and money.
There are other situations in which you may be able to sue your employer, including:
- If your employer fails to report your injury to insurance
- If your employer intentionally causes you harm
- If there was a virtual certainty that your injury would occur.
If you decide to pursue litigation, you waive your right to collect workers’ compensation. The law prohibits you from receiving both. Nonetheless, if your injuries are debilitating and your employer behaved with gross negligence, this option may be worth exploring.
Injured Target Employee? Contact our West Palm Beach Workers’ Compensation Attorney Immediately
Target warehouse workers face a host of challenges daily. If your workplace injury claim was denied, you need to reach out to our workers’ compensation attorneys. Our legal team is ready to fight for you. To schedule your free case review, contact us online or by calling 561-478-2500.