Starbucks Workers’ Compensation Claims

Working at Starbucks can involve risks of injury, such as slipping on spilled drinks or straining muscles while lifting heavy boxes. If this happens to you, you have the right to pursue a Starbucks workers’ compensation claim. However, navigating the claim process alone is tough.

An Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer like those at John Foy & Associates understands how to handle these claims. An experienced attorney can ensure you receive all benefits under Georgia law for your injury.

An initial consultation with a John Foy lawyer will guide you on the best next steps toward getting workers’ compensation from Starbucks’ insurers. You can get medical expenses, some of your lost wages, and sometimes more.

Starbucks’ History with Workers’ Compensation Claims

Starbucks has faced its fair share of workers’ compensation issues. As their signature green aprons became a common sight in cities nationwide, so did claims for injuries sustained on the job.

Starbucks has dealt with repetitive strain and ergonomic claims from baristas who have been subjected to long periods of coffee preparation movements. Slip and fall incidents involving spills were also frequent in busy café environments.

While Starbucks disputes a small percentage of claims, they have been praised for having a fair and efficient claims-handling process. Nevertheless, you need an Atlanta personal injury lawyer to protect yourself if Starbucks or their insurer fights your claim.

Benefits Available from a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Georgia

If you’re found eligible for benefits after filing a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia, you’re entitled to several kinds of compensation. Some of the top benefits include:

• Medical expenses—The employer’s insurance pays for all reasonable and necessary doctor visits, hospital care, surgeries, prescriptions, and rehab costs.
• Lost wage replacement – A percentage of normal pre-injury earnings are provided by weekly benefit checks to compensate for inability to work due to the injury. 
• Permanent impairment payments – Payments are issued if you sustain permanent functional disabilities or disfigurement based on medical guidelines.
• Vocational rehabilitation assistance – Retraining or educational costs may be covered to help transition you to alternative employment if your injury prevents you from returning to your old position.
• Death benefits – Compensation is provided to eligible dependents in the tragic case of a job-related death.

However, you don’t get these benefits automatically. You must report your injury to your employer within 30 days of the accident or noticing your injury. That will legally require them to start the workers’ comp process, and it covers your major responsibility to start benefits.

What Are My Other Responsibilities Under Workers’ Comp?

Starbucks employees do have certain responsibilities when filing a workers’ compensation claim. These include:

• Promptly report all work-related injuries or illnesses to a supervisor so they are documented properly.
• Accurately fill out the required claim forms truthfully.
• Cooperate fully with the insurance carrier’s investigation.
• Diligently follow all medical treatment recommendations from authorized physicians.
• Communicate regularly with the claims adjuster regarding status, restrictions, and your ability to work.
• Undergo independent medical exams or employability assessments if requested.
• Provide documentation like wage stubs or tax returns to substantiate lost income claims.
• Notify the carrier of any events that could impact benefits like additional employment or retirement.

What Happens After Starbucks Files My Claim?

Starbucks should file a claim application on your behalf within 30 days of your report. After that, their insurer has 90 days to accept or deny your claim based on their investigation. If they accept your claim and the benefits are sufficient, you can start collecting benefits immediately.

If they deny your claim, you need to speak with an attorney about your Starbucks workers’ compensation claim and request a hearing before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation. Your attorney will investigate to begin building your case.

They may attempt to mediate with Starbucks’ insurer to come to a settlement before the hearing. Otherwise, they will argue your case before the board. If you’re denied workers’ compensation benefits again, your attorney may appeal your case to higher courts.

How an Attorney Can Help with a Workers’ Compensation Claim against Starbucks

For many injured Starbucks employees, navigating the workers’ compensation system alone can feel daunting. However, hiring John Foy & Associates can provide significant benefits:

• We understand workers’ comp laws and what evidence is needed to prove a claim. 
• We ensure all rights are protected and proper procedures are followed.
• We negotiate with insurance carriers to facilitate quicker claim acceptance and payment of benefits owed without drawn-out disputes.
• If the claim is denied, we will prepare evidence to submit at your hearing.
• We effectively advocate for clients to obtain a favorable final ruling.
• We monitor ongoing care and payments to catch any non-compliance or improper reductions/denials of benefits.

Our workers’ comp professionals at Foy & Associates can help secure the maximum compensation and benefits for injuries that Starbucks employees deserve under the law.

Speak With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Atlanta for Answers

For injured Starbucks employees, understanding their rights and benefits regarding potential workers’ compensation claims is important. Navigating the legal process alone can challenge even the most informed worker. 

Our attorneys have a proven track record of achieving successful outcomes for clients through Starbucks workers’ compensation claims. By consulting an advisor up-front, injured employees gain confidence that accessible remedies under Georgia law will be fully pursued.

By relying on counsel from a trusted law firm, you can secure all warranted compensation for your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation about your situation.