Understanding Workers’ Compensation for Postal Employees
Postal workers face numerous hazards and physically demanding tasks during their workday. From navigating cluttered walkways and encountering aggressive dogs to lifting heavy packages and dealing with dangerous drivers, mail carriers endure considerable risks. Workers in sorting rooms and post offices can also experience injuries from workplace accidents or repetitive movements.
If you’ve been injured on the job or developed a work-related illness, you are generally entitled to postal workers’ compensation benefits. Unfortunately, the process of securing these benefits can be complex and time-consuming. That’s where E&L, LLP comes in. Our experienced legal team is committed to helping injured workers obtain the compensation they deserve to rebuild their lives and support their families.
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What Is USPS Workers’ Compensation?
The Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) provides benefits to USPS employees and other federal workers who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), FECA offers a range of benefits, including:
- Wage loss compensation
- Medical treatment coverage
- Disability benefits
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Death benefits for dependents
Benefits Available to Injured Postal Workers
Injuries in postal work environments—whether in sorting rooms, retail offices, or on delivery routes—may qualify employees for compensation under FECA, including:
- Wage Replacement Benefits
Postal workers who suffer traumatic injuries may qualify for Continuation of Pay (COP) for up to 45 calendar days. COP allows injured workers to receive their full wages temporarily while recovering. However, employees must request COP and provide medical evidence to support their claim.
If you cannot return to work after 45 days, you may qualify for additional payments under FECA.
- Medical Benefits
FECA covers “reasonable and necessary” medical expenses related to work injuries or illnesses. Disabled workers requiring around-the-clock care may also qualify for additional monthly benefits to cover their needs.
- Disability Benefits
Injured postal workers may receive benefits for both partial and total disabilities:
- Partial Disability: If you can no longer perform your previous job but can work in a different or part-time position, you may qualify for wage loss benefits to compensate for the income difference.
- Total Disability: Workers unable to return to any form of employment due to their injuries may qualify for monthly payments:
- Two-thirds of prior wages for single workers.
- 75% of prior wages for workers with dependents.
- Vocational Benefits
Postal workers unable to return to their previous roles may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation training and job placement assistance. Participation in vocational rehabilitation may be mandatory under FECA.
- Death Benefits for Surviving Dependents
Dependents of postal workers who die due to work-related injuries or illnesses may qualify for death benefits. Eligible family members can include spouses, children, siblings, parents, or grandparents. Benefits may vary depending on the circumstances and the dependent’s relationship to the deceased worker.
Common Postal Worker Injuries
Postal workers often face challenging conditions that increase the risk of injury. Common injuries include:
- Slips and Falls: Uneven surfaces, slippery floors, or cluttered walkways are frequent causes of accidents.
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- Vehicle Accidents: Collisions involving postal vehicles are common, particularly in rural areas, due to road defects, fatigue, or defective vehicles.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries : Continuous repetitive motions, such as sorting mail or lifting packages, can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, or rotator cuff tears.
- Dog Bites: Thousands of postal workers suffer from dog attacks annually, leading to injuries ranging from puncture wounds to infections.
- Violence: Interactions with the public expose postal workers to potential assaults or attacks by individuals attempting to intercept mail.
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Steps to Take if Injured on the Job
If you’re a postal worker injured at work, take these steps to protect your rights and access benefits:
- Report the Injury Immediately
Inform your supervisor as soon as the accident occurs. Delayed reporting can make it more challenging to secure benefits. - File a Claim
Submit the appropriate form to the OWCP:- Form CA-1 for traumatic injuries.
- Form CA-2 for occupational diseases.
- Gather Medical Evidence
Provide detailed medical records and evidence linking your injury or illness to your job duties. - Appeal Denials if Necessary
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through the appeals process to improve your chances of approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Sue a Negligent Homeowner?
If your injury was caused by a negligent homeowner—such as a dog bite or slip and fall on unsafe property—you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit in addition to collecting workers’ compensation. This can help you recover damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other losses.
- How Long Do Survivor Benefits Last?
Surviving spouses typically receive benefits for life unless they remarry before age 55. Minor children may receive benefits until they turn 18 or, if in full-time education, until age 22.
- What Injuries Are Not Covered by FECA?
FECA does not cover injuries sustained during commutes, recreational activities, or incidents involving intoxication or drug use.
- Can I Receive Workers’ Compensation for COVID-19?
You may qualify for benefits if you contracted COVID-19 through workplace exposure. Eligibility requires proof of exposure, such as contact with coworkers or the public, within 21 days of diagnosis.
- Do I Need a Lawyer?
If your injury is minor and benefits are granted without issue, you may not need an attorney. However, legal representation is essential if your claim is denied, involves a severe injury, or includes a third-party lawsuit.
Call Our Attorneys For a Free No-Obligation Consultation
(213) 213-0000
How E&L, LLP Can Help
Navigating the federal workers’ compensation system can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At E&L, LLP, we specialize in helping injured postal workers secure the benefits they need to recover and rebuild their lives.
Our experienced attorneys can assist with filing claims, gathering evidence, appealing denials, and pursuing third-party lawsuits.
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(213) 213-0000
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