In the past, our firm has represented employees who worked for Delta Airlines who injured themselves on the job. Some employees injured themselves lifting luggage or baggage, while another suffered injuries to his eyes from debris when he worked on the tarmac. The threshold issue for the claim to be considered under workers’ compensation is whether the injury arose out of and in the course of employment. Essentially, the questions become:
- Was the Delta employee doing his or her job; and
- Did the job cause the work accident / injury?
If yes, the Delta worker who hurt himself is entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits include medical treatment as it relates to the work accident, as well as income benefits for the lost time. However, the income benefits amount to only two-thirds of the Delta worker’s average weekly wage, up to $500.
It is common for airline employees to suffer injuries to their backs, neck, arms, hands (carpal tunnel), knees, or eyes. When this happens, it is crucial that the accident or injury is reported to the supervisor and medical attention is given.
If you have been hurt at the airport and you want to discuss your workers’ compensation rights, please call 404-355-3431 for a free consultation.