If you have ever worked for Speedway in Illinois, you may be eligible for a payment from a recent class action settlement. This legal settlement involves the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), a law designed to protect the personal biological data of individuals. Many former and current employees are now looking for clear guidance on how to secure their portion of the settlement fund.
The lawsuit against Speedway alleged that the company collected and stored employee fingerprints for timekeeping purposes without meeting all the legal requirements set by Illinois law. While the company has denied any wrongdoing, they have agreed to a settlement to resolve the matter. This guide provides a straightforward explanation of who qualifies, how much you might receive, and the exact steps you need to take to file a claim.
What Is the Speedway BIPA Settlement?
The Speedway BIPA settlement is a legal resolution to a class action lawsuit filed in Illinois. The plaintiffs in the case argued that Speedway violated state law by requiring employees to use fingerprint scanners to clock in and out of work without first providing written notice or obtaining written consent.
Illinois is one of the few states with a very strict law regarding biometric data. Under BIPA, companies must follow specific protocols before they collect, store, or share fingerprints, facial scans, or other biological identifiers. Because these identifiers are unique and cannot be changed if compromised, the law holds companies to a high standard of transparency and security.
By settling the case, Speedway avoids a lengthy trial while providing compensation to those affected. For eligible individuals, this means there is a designated fund of money that will be distributed among those who submit a valid claim form before the deadline.
Who Is Eligible for a Payment?
Eligibility for this settlement is specifically tied to employment at Speedway locations within the state of Illinois. To qualify as a class member, you generally must meet the following criteria:
- Location: You must have worked for Speedway at a location in Illinois.
- Timeframe: You must have been employed and used a fingerprint scanner between specific dates, typically ranging back several years to the present.
- Action: You must have used a biometric time clock or similar device that scanned your fingerprint or handprint for timekeeping or security purposes.
Most eligible individuals should have received a notice in the mail or via email. This notice usually contains a unique Class Member ID, which simplifies the filing process. However, even if you did not receive a notice, you may still be eligible if you meet the employment criteria during the specified period.
How Much Money Can You Expect?
The total amount each person receives depends on several factors, primarily the total number of valid claims filed. The settlement creates a “gross settlement fund,” from which administrative costs, legal fees, and incentive awards for the lead plaintiffs are deducted.
The remaining “net settlement fund” is then divided equally among all class members who submitted a valid claim. While the exact amount can vary, BIPA settlements in Illinois often result in hundreds or even thousands of dollars per person. It is important to remember that you will not receive a payment unless you take the necessary steps to file your claim.
Factors Influencing the Final Payout
- Claim Volume: If fewer people file claims, the individual payout per person typically increases.
- Court Approval: The final amount is subject to the court’s approval during a final fairness hearing.
- Legal Deductions: Attorney fees and court costs are taken from the total fund before individual checks are cut.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Claim
Filing a claim is a relatively simple process that can be completed online or via mail. Follow these steps to ensure your claim is processed correctly.
1. Locate Your Class Member ID
If you received a notice package, look for a unique ID number printed on the form. This ID links your employment records to the settlement system, making the process much faster. If you do not have an ID, you can still file by providing your Social Security number or other identifying information to verify your past employment.
2. Visit the Official Claims Portal
Navigate to the official settlement website established by the claims administrator. This is the most secure way to submit your information. Look for a button that says “Submit Claim” or “File a Claim Online.”
3. Fill Out the Required Information
You will be asked to provide your current contact information, including your name, mailing address, and phone number. This is vital because this is where your check or electronic payment will be sent. You may also need to confirm that you worked for Speedway in Illinois during the relevant time period.
4. Select Your Payment Method
Many modern settlements allow you to choose how you want to be paid. Options often include a physical check sent via mail, or digital payments through services like Venmo, PayPal, or direct deposit. Select the method that is most convenient for you.
5. Submit and Save Your Confirmation
Once you have filled out all the fields, submit the form. Make sure to save a copy of the confirmation number or take a screenshot of the “Success” page. This serves as your proof of filing if there are any issues with your claim later on.
Important Deadlines to Remember
In any class action settlement, timing is everything. There are three critical dates you should be aware of to ensure you don’t miss out on your rights or your payment.
- Claim Deadline: This is the last day you can submit your form. If you miss this date, you will not receive a payment, and you will lose your right to sue Speedway for this specific issue in the future.
- Exclusion Deadline: If you wish to sue Speedway on your own regarding this issue, you must “opt-out” or exclude yourself from the settlement by this date.
- Final Approval Hearing: This is when the judge decides whether the settlement is fair and reasonable. Payments are usually distributed only after the court grants final approval and any potential appeals are resolved.
What If You Didn’t Receive a Notice?
It is common for people to move or change email addresses, causing them to miss the initial notice. If you believe you are part of the class but didn’t get a letter, you should contact the Settlement Administrator. You can usually find their contact information on the official settlement website.
Be prepared to provide your full name, the dates you worked at Speedway, and the specific store location. They can check their database to see if you are listed as an eligible class member. If you are not listed but believe you should be, you may be asked to provide documentation, such as a W-2 or a pay stub, to prove your employment during the eligible period.
Your Rights and Options
As a member of the settlement class, you have three main options. First, you can file a claim to receive a payment. This is the most common choice for those who want to benefit from the settlement.
Second, you can do nothing. If you do nothing, you will receive no money, and you will give up your right to sue Speedway for these specific legal claims in the future. Third, you can object to the settlement if you feel the terms are unfair. Objecting requires you to submit a written statement to the court explaining your reasoning.
Final Thoughts on the Speedway Settlement
The Speedway BIPA settlement is an important reminder of the value of digital privacy and the protections afforded to workers in Illinois. If you are eligible, taking a few minutes to file a claim is a simple way to ensure your rights are respected and to receive compensation for the use of your biometric data.
Once you have submitted your claim, the best thing to do is wait. These legal processes can take several months to reach a final conclusion. You can check the official settlement website periodically for updates on the final approval status and the estimated distribution date for payments. For more helpful guides on navigating legal settlements and protecting your consumer rights, explore our other articles on workplace privacy and financial guidance.