What to Do if I’m Injured While Working at Dollar General?

If you are injured while working at Dollar General, get medical attention immediately. Then, inform store management, and call the Dollar General 24-hour Incident Reporting Hotline to make sure you are following company protocol for reporting your injury.  

If you believe you’ll have a workers’ compensation claim, it’s smart to consult with our legal team as soon as possible. We can make sure you are treated fairly by your employer and their insurance provider so you can get the benefits you need while you recover.

Our Dollar General workers’ compensation lawyers in Atlanta have over 350 years of combined experience, advocating for injured accident victims in Georgia. Call today to schedule your free consultation and find out how we can help with your workplace injury case.

Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the most important thing after a workplace injury. If your accident did not require emergency attention, go to see a doctor as soon as you can, even if you think you feel okay. Some injuries have delayed symptoms that may not appear until days after the accident.

Getting medical care doesn’t just mean you’re on the way to feeling better and getting back to work. It also creates documents that will show the extent of your injuries and form a basis for your claim. Your medical records may also be important evidence if your claim is denied.

Report Your Injury to Dollar General

In Georgia, you’re required to report your injury to your employer within 30 days. However, per the employee handbook, Dollar General’s policy requires you to report to your manager immediately. It’s smart to do so in writing and retain a copy of your statement.

You must also call the 24-hour Incident Reporting Hotline to report your injury within 24 hours. This is a requirement, but be aware that Dollar General’s policies can change. Refer to your manager or your current employee handbook for up-to-date contacts and procedures.

Contact an Attorney

While hiring a lawyer is not a requirement for a workplace injury claim, it’s still a good idea to speak with our team. In workers’ compensation cases, employers typically make decisions that are most beneficial for them, not you. You need someone in your corner, looking out for your interests.

Our attorneys can explain the workers’ comp process, oversee your claim, maximize your workers’ compensation settlement, and ensure your employer and their insurer are treating you fairly. If necessary, we can help you appeal a denial and represent you in hearings.

Document the Incident

Keep track of your medical expenses and lost income. Once your workers’ compensation claim is approved, you’ll receive compensation to cover your losses. Your notes, receipts, and invoices can help our attorneys make sure your benefits match your actual losses.

You may also wish to write your own narrative of how the accident happened, from your perspective. Do this as soon as possible, while events are still fresh in your mind. It can provide a helpful reference if your employer questions or disputes your injury.

Follow the Medical Provider’s Directions

Your workplace will have a panel of physicians you may choose from for your treatment. It’s important to comply with their treatment plan, even if you begin to feel better. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or request specific testing.  

Avoiding treatment or ignoring the doctor’s advice can mean a denial of your claim and the loss of important benefits while you recover.

Appeal a Denial

If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you can appeal by filing a Form WC-14 with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation to request a hearing. You must file within one year of your injury or the last medical payment.

At the hearing, you can present evidence and witnesses. Our attorneys can review your denial letter, help organize your appeal, and represent you in your workers’ compensation hearings.

Consider Legal Action

In most situations, you can’t sue your employer for a workplace injury. However, in limited circumstances, you may be entitled to damages beyond workers’ compensation if your employer’s actions were willfully or grossly negligent and those actions resulted in your injury.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has repeatedly flagged serious safety issues at some Dollar General stores. Our attorneys can let you know if you have a legal case due to your employer’s negligent and preventable actions.

Get Help When You Are Injured While Working at Dollar General

If you are injured while working as a Dollar General employee, it’s important to follow the right steps to keep your workers’ compensation claim in good standing. Get medical attention immediately, report your injury to management, and call the Risk Management hotline.

Then, contact an attorney who can protect your interests throughout the workers’ compensation process. Our team at John Foy & Associates has recovered over $1 billion for our clients. Call today to schedule a free consultation.