McLean, Virginia Federal Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Lawyers Assisting Federal Workers With OWCP Claims in McLean
An injury at work or the development of a work-related medical condition can affect a federal employee physically, emotionally, and financially. The Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) provides workers’ compensation benefits for federal workers who can no longer perform their duties due to injuries or illnesses. The process of applying for and receiving these benefits requires careful documentation and other requirements. An experienced attorney can be an invaluable ally when addressing these issues.
The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C. helps our clients apply for benefits through the Office of Workers’ Compensation Plans (OWCP), and we can help respond to denials or address other issues that may arise. Our lawyers fight to protect the rights and well-being of federal workers throughout McLean and the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
When Federal Employees May Qualify for Workers’ Compensation
Federal workers may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits when they experience physical or mental injuries or illnesses during the course of their employment. Some of the most common situations that may allow an employee to file an OWCP claim include:
- Accidental Injuries: A fall at a government facility, a car accident while performing job duties, lifting injuries, or repetitive motion injuries can affect a person’s ability to perform their duties, and the effects of these injuries can be addressed through workers’ compensation.
- Occupational Illnesses: Exposure to toxic materials or other conditions in the workplace can lead to chronic conditions like tendonitis and respiratory disorders. Workers’ compensation can help ensure that a person will be able to address the effects of these conditions.
- Mental Health Concerns: A worker may experience job-related anxiety, stress, or emotional trauma caused by traumatic incidents or persistent harassment. They can receive workers’ compensation to ensure that they will be able to receive the proper treatment and address concerns about their ability to continue working.
To receive benefits, a worker must show that issues related to their employment were the direct cause of a physical or mental condition. Claims will require credible medical evidence and other information showing that injuries occurred while at work or that health issues are directly related to a person’s duties or the conditions in the workplace.
Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits Available to Federal Employees
The benefits available through the OWCP will depend on the ways a person has been affected by a qualifying condition, but they may include:
- Medical Benefits: All treatment for a work-related injury or illness should be fully paid for by workers’ compensation. The costs of emergency treatment, surgical procedures, medications, physical therapy, psychological treatment, medical equipment, and ongoing treatment should be covered.
- Disability Benefits: When an employee is unable to return work, they may receive befits to address their loss of income. A person who cannot return to work at all may receive benefits that will pay two thirds of the wages they earned at the time of their injury, or three-quarters of their wages if they have dependents. When a person is limited to part-time work during their recovery, they may be paid two thirds of the amount of income they have lost. In some cases, lump-sum compensation may be paid for permanent impairment to certain body parts (such as hands, arms, legs, or vision) based on a standardized schedule.
- Survivor Benefits: If a federal employee is killed in a workplace accident or because of an illness or injury related to their employment, their surviving spouse and children may be eligible for monthly payments through workers’ compensation.
How Our Attorneys Can Help With Workers’ Compensation Claims
A skilled lawyer can ensure that the correct forms are filed while apply for workers’ compensation benefits. At The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C., we can prepare a detailed narrative explaining how the condition arose, ensuring that reports from treating physicians clearly explain causation in terms the OWCP recognizes. We can help avoid common errors like vague or incomplete medical reports, missed deadlines, or inconsistent statements.
We assist employees in McLean with every aspect of the claims process, including:
- Preparing and filing initial OWCP claims
- Coordinating with doctors to produce detailed medical narratives
- Submitting supporting documentation from supervisors or coworkers
- Responding to requests from the OWCP for medical documentation or other information
- Addressing long-term concerns related to follow-up certifications and schedule award applications
Options for Appealing the Denial of a Workers’ Compensation Claim
A denial from the OWCP is not the end of the road. There are several appeal options available, depending on the facts of the case and the stage of review. Our attorneys can assist with:
- Requests for Reconsideration: We work with employees to submit new evidence demonstrating eligibility for workers’ compensation.
- Reviews by the Employees’ Compensation Appeals Board (ECAB): We can request a final legal review of a case and provide representation during hearings.
Contact Our McLean, VA Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Federal Employees
After suffering an injury or developing a medical condition due to your work, it is important to take prompt action to secure workers’ compensation benefits. The OWCP claims process can be difficult, but The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C. is here to assist with your claim. Arrange a free consultation by calling 866-460-0994 or contacting our firm online.