If you are a federal employee who has suffered an injury or become ill while performing your job duties, you have help. Through the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act, you can get the medical assistance you need and continue to pay your bills while you recover.
Unfortunately, sometimes the application process is confusing, or you may be denied benefits and not understand why. A Federal workers’ compensation lawyer in Savannah can explain your rights and help you get the benefits you deserve.
Our team at John Foy & Associates has recovered over $1 billion in awards and settlements for our clients. Our Savannah workers’ compensation lawyers can help you, too. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
About the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs administers the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). It offers compensation to civilian employees of the U.S. federal government who experience work-related injuries or diseases.
FECA differs from other workers’ compensation programs as it is a no-fault system. Injured employees do not need to prove employer negligence for benefits, only that their injury or illness directly resulted from their job responsibilities.
The Federal Employees’ Compensation Act ensures that federal workers receive medical treatment and financial help for injuries or illnesses that occur on the job. If you believe you are eligible, our Savannah personal injury lawyers can help you understand your options.
Who Is Eligible for Federal Workers’ Compensation?
The Federal Employees’ Compensation Act covers the majority of civilian workers in federal jobs throughout all government branches. This includes employees from the:
- U.S. Department of State
- Department of Defense
- U.S. Postal Service
- Federal Aviation Administration
However, not all federal employees qualify for FECA. Military members may receive coverage through VA disability compensation. Independent contractors, volunteers, and employees of private companies with federal contracts are usually not eligible for FECA.
What Happens if You Are Denied Federal Workers’ Comp?
If your FECA claim is denied, the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) will provide a written explanation for the denial. Knowing the exact reason can help you address and resolve the issue more effectively.
It is smart to consult with an attorney if your FECA has been denied. There are several steps for appealing a denied claim, and a skilled lawyer who understands federal workers’ comp regulations can greatly improve your chances of success. An attorney can help you:
- Request Reconsideration: If new evidence is available, you may request a review of the decision within one year of the denial.
- Request a Hearing or Review: You may request a formal hearing before an OWCP hearing representative, usually within 30 days of the denial. Alternatively, you may request a review, based on documentation, without the need for a hearing.
- Appeal to the Employees’ Compensation Appeals Board (ECAB): As a last option, you can appeal to the ECAB, which will examine the case without considering new evidence.
When you are dealing with an appeal for federal workers’ comp benefits, don’t try to do it alone. The federal workers’ compensation attorneys in Savannah have the knowledge and experience to help you through a successful appeal.
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How an Attorney Can Help
The Federal Employees’ Compensation Act claims process can be complicated and confusing, particularly if your claim faces denial, delays, or challenges regarding eligibility or benefits.
It is important to find an attorney who has experience working with federal workers’ compensation, preferably in your job arena. For example, if you are a postal employee, you will benefit from the knowledge of a Savannah USPS workers’ compensation claims lawyer.
Here’s how an attorney can help:
Manage Applications and Paperwork
Filing a FECA claim requires extensive paperwork, including forms, medical records, and evidence connecting your injury to your job. We can help make sure all forms are filled out correctly and filed on time.
Support Your Medical Case
Incomplete medical evidence is one of the top causes of denied FECA claims. We can work with your healthcare provider and specialists to ensure you submit detailed medical reports that clearly associate your condition with your job duties.
Help with the Appeal Process
If your FECA claim is denied or if you don’t receive the expected level of benefits, our attorneys can assist you with the appeal. We’ll help you review your denial letter, understand the issues, and take the necessary steps to strengthen your claim for reconsideration.
Represent You in Hearings
Should you decide to request a formal hearing, we can represent you before an OWCP hearing officer. We’ll help present your case and argue for your entitlement to benefits.
Benefits Available Through The Federal Employees’ Compensation Act
Benefits a federal employee may receive through the FECA include:
- Medical Coverage: Your Savannah federal workers’ compensation lawyer can help you receive medical benefits to pay for things like doctors’ visits, surgery, hospital stays, prescriptions, physical therapy, and medical equipment.
- Wage Replacement: If you are disabled, whether temporarily or permanently, your attorney can ensure you receive the right percentage of wage replacement based on your employment status and dependents.
- Permanent Disability Compensation: Should your injury lead to permanent disability, your attorney can help you receive fair compensation based on the severity of your condition.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: If you cannot return to your previous job, we can help you access vocational rehabilitation services, job retraining programs, and employment opportunities.
- Death Benefits: When a work-related injury or illness results in death, we can advise surviving family members throughout the claims process.
Contact a Federal Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Savannah
The FECA application claims process is complicated, and mistakes can happen. Simple errors can mean delayed benefits or an outright denial. Sometimes, it’s hard to understand why your claim has been denied when you believe you have done everything required.
A federal workers’ compensation attorney in Savannah can help make sure your application is complete and supported by the necessary documentation. If your claim is denied, we can help you appeal and fight for the benefits you deserve.
At John Foy & Associates, our team has over 350 years of combined experience advocating for injured workers. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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