American Airlines is the biggest airline in the world when it comes to the size of its fleet, the number of passengers it carries and the amount of revenue it receives. It employs more than 122,000 people. The main hub for American Airlines is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Virginia. When it comes to filing a worker’s compensation claim these are normally filed in Virginia, even though the accident may have taken place elsewhere. Injuries That Could Occur at American Airlines American Airlines workers tend to suffer from specific injuries. Back injuries are common because flight attendants, aircraft mechanics and pilots frequently carry heavy items on and off the plane. This could cause a herniated disc which may require lumbar fusion surgery to correct. Burn injuries occur from time to time to as flight attendants have to prepare and serve hot coffee throughout long flights. They are also subject to head and face injuries from poorly stored luggage falling from overhead lockers. On the ground, aircraft mechanics are exposed to toxic fumes which can cause serious respiratory problems. American Airline’s flights are not always calm and flight attendants frequently get thrown off their feet, causing neck and shoulder injuries. Filing a WC Claim for an Injury at American Airlines As soon as you are aware of your injury you should tell your American Airline’s insurer as soon as possible. This is the first step towards your worker’s comp. claim. The American Airlines worker’s comp. insurer may ask for evidence to prove your accident took place while you were at work. You can ask witnesses to write statements on your behalf and also take photos of the scene of the accident. Often there are surveillance cameras in the vicinity which may have footage of the accident taking place. Calculating What a WC Claim Might be Worth Against American Airlines The Virginia Workers Compensation Act decides what benefits you are entitled to. This could include loss of wages which is typically 2/3rds of your normal weekly pay. If you are able to return to work to do light duties generally American Airlines has a time limit on this which means if you are unable to return to work in your full capacity you may be awarded temporary total disability payments. You will also receive free medical treatment including all medications and any medical equipment you may require. If you have experienced partial, but permanent, loss of a part of your body, or the complete loss of it you may receive partial permanent disability benefits. If you are still able to work but not in the same job you may be entitled to retraining. If you are not capable of working long term payments for your disability through Social Security may be available on top of your worker’s comp. weekly payments. A Workers’ Compensation Attorney Can Help You With Your Claim To avoid making any mistakes when compiling your WC claim it will be useful to talk to an experienced WC attorney first who may work on your behalf to get your worker’s comp. entitlements. *The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against American Airlines, or another party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
