CVS Workers’ Compensation Claims

If you suffer an injury while employed by CVS and cannot work due to those injuries, you can pursue a CVS workers’ compensation claims. However, navigating the claim process on your own against a large corporate entity like CVS can be an overwhelming challenge. 

This is where an experienced Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and advocacy. John Foy & Associates has dedicated decades to assisting individuals with CVS workers’ compensation claims. 

By retaining our services, you ensure you receive the maximum benefits you are entitled to while focusing your energy on medical treatment and rehabilitation. Our team will diligently build your case to validate your claim and protect your rights and financial security.

How a Lawyer Can Help You With Your CVS Claim

CVS operates more than 9,900 retail pharmacy locations nationwide and employs over 300,000 individuals. As such a large company, CVS has substantial experience with workers’ comp claims. However, navigating the claim process can be difficult to do alone.

An Atlanta personal injury lawyer can provide critical advice and representation. Our attorneys have extensive experience dealing with large companies and CVS workers’ compensation claims insurance adjusters. 

Having an advocate helps ensure an injured worker receives all benefits allowed under the law. Hiring legal help removes much stress and uncertainty you may have about how you’ll pay for your bills while you’re out of work.

Injuries CVS Workers May Experience

CVS employees are at risk for several types of physical injuries working in a retail pharmacy environment. Slips, trips, and falls are common, whether caused by wet floors or equipment left in walkways. This can lead to fractures, head injuries, and muscle and joint issues from falls.

Lifting and carrying boxes of heavy supplies, retail goods, and medical equipment poses a risk of strains and pulls to the back, shoulders, or arms. Repeatedly bending, stooping, or reaching on the job over time can damage spinal discs or cause carpal tunnel in the hands and wrists.

Pharmacists and technicians are regularly exposed to chemicals, prescription medications, and biohazardous waste (e.g., used needles from vaccinations). Cashiers also face risks from robbers and violent people that could get them injured. 

Starting a Workers’ Compensation Claim Against CVS in Georgia

If you suffer a work-related injury or illness while employed by CVS in Georgia, the first step is to report the incident immediately to your supervisor. They will fill out an Injury Report Form, known as Form WC-1, to document what happened and notify their insurer.

You will then need to seek medical care from one of CVS’s authorized treatment providers. During recovery, all related medical costs should be paid under workers’ comp coverage. Provide your physician with regular updates about your condition.

CVS’s insurer will investigate the incident. If liability is accepted, you will get compensation. If denied, you can request a hearing before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

What Happens if My Manager does Not File the Form?

Your employer is required by law to file Form WC-1 if you report the incident in time. If your manager is trying to sweep what happened under the rug by not reporting, we suggest you get a lawyer to help you right away.

If you have notified your manager of the injury within 30 days of the accident and they haven’t filed, then you can file the claim yourself using Form WC-14. It is a short form, but it can be confusing. A lawyer’s guidance can help ensure everything is correct for the insurers.

What Damages Are Covered by Workers’ Compensation in Georgia?

Workers’ compensation provides you with medical and lost wage benefits to help you recover from work-related injuries or illnesses. In Georgia, covered damages include:

Medical Expenses

Medical expenses for any doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, therapy, medical equipment, and travel required to obtain authorized treatment for your work-related injuries are fully paid. 

Lost Wages

Lost wages are paid at a percentage of the employee’s average weekly wage, up to a state-set maximum, for time missed from work while injured. This continues until you can return to work and a doctor clears you for work.

Permanent Disability

Permanent disability benefits may be owed if the injury causes a lasting physical impairment that reduces future employment opportunities or requires lifetime medical management. The degree of disability is calculated based on set state guidelines. More severe disabilities receive larger financial awards.

You can also get compensation for certain other costs, like vocational rehabilitation. Together, the costs of these damages are used to calculate how much compensation you need through your workers’ comp claim with CVS.

Can I Sue CVS Directly for My Injuries?

In most cases, you cannot sue your employer if you take CVS workers’ compensation claims benefits in Georgia. Here are a few key points about this:

• As long as the employer has secured workers’ comp insurance coverage as required, employees give up their right to file a personal injury lawsuit regarding injuries covered by the policy. If they did not have insurance, you can sue. However, this is extremely unlikely with a national company like CVS.
• There are some exceptions where an employee may be able to sue in addition to workers’ comp. This includes if the employer deliberately caused your injury or acted in a way to intend your injury.
• Gross negligence, failure to provide a safe work environment, or violation of safety regulations may also allow a personal injury case, but the bar is high to prove these types of claims.
• Employees can still sue third parties who may be responsible, such as manufacturers of defective equipment involved in the injury.

In summary, receiving workers’ compensation prevents suing the employer in most situations under Georgia law. There are narrow grounds where additional legal action may be possible.

To get more information about CVS workers’ compensation claims or to get help with a claim, contact John Foy & Associates for a free consultation.