How Workers’ Compensation Works In Georgia
Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia is a complex process. If you have suffered a workplace injury, knowing your legal rights is crucial for receiving a fair settlement. An experienced attorney can help you navigate through the complicated legal procedures and work in favor of your rights.
As a dedicated team of Marietta workers’ comp lawyers, the Gentry Law Firm LLC firmly advocates for individuals who have been hurt on the job and are facing resistance from employers or insurance companies in providing medical care and weekly workers’ compensation benefits. From the initial consultation and throughout each step, our dedicated team answers all questions and keeps clients informed of the proceedings.
With a client-centered approach, our goal is to unburden workplace accident victims from the stress of dealing with employers and insurance companies so they can focus on recovering. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact our law firm.
Construction and Factory Accidents
Injuries that make you eligible for workers’ compensation can result from one-time, traumatic incidents or from repetitive motions injuries such as:
- Finger amputations;
- Shoulder injuries (such as a torn rotator cuff);
- Lower back injuries (such as a back strain or bulging disc);
- Carpal tunnel syndrome;
- Lifting injury;
- Broken bones;
- Head injuries; and
- Repetitive stress injuries.
Driving Accidents
While most drivers are aware that they can claim workers’ compensation benefits for injuries they suffer while on the job, many do not realize that they may also be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver who caused their injury. This type of lawsuit is designed to hold the negligent party responsible for their actions and to provide an extra layer of financial compensation to the victims.
Workers’ compensation and personal injury claims interact in a number of important ways. For example, if you receive workers’ compensation for your work-related car accident and then obtain payment in your personal injury case, workers’ compensation may attempt to take back part of that payment as reimbursement for the workers’ compensation benefits you received. Our team of experienced and aggressive Georgia attorneys will fight for what you deserve.
Employer Refusal of Benefits
When an employer refuses benefits, the Gentry Law Firm LLC can advocate for you at all stages of the workers’ compensation process. Our representation includes:
- Fighting for your rights;
- Taking depositions;
- Getting medical records that will be used to strengthen your case;
- Representing you at your hearing in front of a workers’ comp judge; and
- Appealing your case, if necessary.
Permanent Disability
Cases involving permanent disability in Georgia are usually resolved in one of two ways:
When Should I Hire A Lawyer?
As your workers’ compensation attorney, we are paid a flat percentage no matter when we become involved in your case. The percentage you pay is the same if you hire us one day or one year after your accident, and you will also have our help with additional issues such as:
- Obtaining medical treatment;
- Obtaining your weekly checks;
- Changing doctors, if necessary;
- Finding out what your rights are and what expenses are covered by workers’ compensation, such as mileage for going to the doctor’s office or to the pharmacy; and
- Your workers’ comp appeal, if necessary.
Workers’ Compensation Income Benefits
In order to receive income benefits for a work-related accident, you need a written statement from a doctor instructing you to stay out of work or indicating the restrictions on the type of work you are able to perform. If you are unable to work at all, your employer is required to pay two-thirds of your average weekly wages, not to exceed $525 per week. They may also offer you an alternate position.
There is typically a one-week waiting period before you receive your first check. If you do not receive a check within 14 days after the injury, contact a lawyer. Your employer is subject to a 15-20 percent fine for late payments and may also be liable for your attorney’s fees.
In addition to income benefits, you may also be eligible for other medical or disability benefits. With so many complexities in the process, ensuring you are getting the full extent of compensation available is difficult. Trust an attorney at the Gentry Law Firm LLC who has represented hundreds of clients involved in all types of workplace accidents.
Workers’ Compensation Medical Benefits
If you were injured on the job, your medical treatment is covered under workers’ compensation laws. With the exception of emergency care cases, you must seek treatment from a doctor on your employer’s approved panel of physicians. The law allows a one-time change to another physician on your employer’s panel if you are dissatisfied with the doctor you initially chose. If the employer or insurance agency fails to comply with the rules regarding your claim, you may have the right to select your own doctor.
We Are Ready To Help You
Our team at Gentry Law Firm LLC works diligently to maximize the benefits and compensation you receive for all types of work-related accidents, including driving accidents that occur while on the job, injuries that occur in factories and warehouses, and construction accidents.
From back injuries to permanent disabilities, we approach each work-related injury case with a high level of care and concern. We understand the dire short- and long-term effects a workplace accident can have on your life. With an in-depth knowledge of the law and a passion for serving hardworking citizens, we help clients quickly obtain the financial and medical benefits they need.
Injured workers are often unsure whether their case requires the assistance of a lawyer. If you have been injured in the workplace and especially if your claim has been denied, now is the time to speak to a Marietta lawyer at Gentry Law Firm LLC.
Contact Us Today
Don’t risk settling for less than your claim is worth — trust an experienced workplace accident attorney. The Gentry Law Firm LLC takes cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no legal fees unless you receive a settlement or win at trial. For an initial consultation, call 770-425-5573 or contact us online.