Are you employed by United Hardware Distributing Company? Did you suffer an injury while you were on the job? If so, you could be eligible to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits to help you recoup your medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages. In the U.S., most employers are required to have workers’ comp insurance to protect themselves and their employees in the event of a work-related injury or illness. If you are hurt while on-the-job, you should immediately notify a manager or a human resources representative so an accident report can be completed. You should consult with a personal injury attorney who can negotiate the claim for you. Company Profile: United Hardware Distributing Company A dealer-owned corporation founded in Plymouth, Minnesota, in 1945, United Hardware Distributing Co. provides distribution services for 610 stores that are member-owned. Most of the stores operate under the trade name of Hardware Hank. The company services about 800 other stores that aren’t owned by members. The sales in 2006 were $183 million. Some of the stores serviced by United Hardware are TrustWorthy Hardware Stores, Golden Rule Lumber Centers, Ranch and Pet Supply Stores, and several others. It is a member of the Distribution America buying group. It offers plumbing, lawn and garden, hand tools, power tools, electrical, hardware, and other items. Did You Get Hurt On-the-Job? All jobs have their inherent risk despite how safe you perform your duties. Did you have a crate of power tools fall and strike you knocking you to the ground and causing a serious knee injury while working at United Hardware Distributing? Workers’ compensation benefits may be able to help you recover some of your lost wages and your medical expenses. If you are hurt at work, you should seek medical care right away. Falls: You can fall from a ladder and suffer serious injuries that range from herniated discs to broken bones. These can require extensive recovery periods and result in thousands of dollars of medical expenses. Cuts or Puncture Wounds: While you are loading products, you can suffer deep puncture wounds or major lacerations. If these are severe, tendons or ligaments may have to be repaired. You may find yourself unable to work for weeks or even months. Carpal Tunnel: Repetitive hand and wrist movements can lead to trauma that causes severe pain and immobility. Jobs such as sorting and data entry can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, which may require surgical intervention. Consult with a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Workers’ compensation claims are complicated. They require detailed documentation and negotiations with an insurance adjuster. While you focus on getting better to return to work, your workers’ compensation attorney can handle your claim for you. Your attorney can handle the filing of the claim, work through any denials by filing appeals, then work to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. If you are unable to return to the same job, workers’ comp may be able to cover the costs of vocational training. *The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against United Hardware Distributing Co., you may not be entitled to any compensation.
