Pretty much everybody knows that workers’ compensation exists, but a lot of people don’t know exactly how it works—they often ask questions like:
- How do I sign up for the benefits?
- Do I need a lawyer?
- What if I can’t go back to work? Do I get paid out for life?
And so on. Today I’d like to treat this blog post as a general overview of workers’ comp (as the laws pertain to Georgia), and answer some of the most common questions I get regarding the subject. In other words, welcome to Workers’ Compensation 101, and as a workers’ compensation lawyer in Atlanta, I’m happy to be your teacher and guide you through the process.
How Does Workers’ Compensation Help Me?
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that all companies (with over 3 employees) must carry to help protect their workers in the event of an injury on the job. If you get in an accident at work that requires medical attention, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance should cover the damages. Workers’ compensation exists to pay for medical, rehabilitation and income benefits.
If you get injured at work, you have to file a claim to receive benefits. In Georgia, the statute of limitations is one year.
Why Would I Need a Lawyer?
Sometimes employers will deny claims, even if they are legitimate. They may do so to avoid their premiums going up, or for a number of other reasons. If that happens to you, it’s time to hire an attorney who can help prove that your employer is in the wrong.
What Happens if My Accident Is Catastrophic or Deadly?
In the unfortunate event that your on-the-job injury is life-altering or deadly, there are a number of resources available. If you die on the job, your dependents are entitled to ⅔ your average weekly pay up to $575 for a certain period of time (depending on the ensuing circumstances).
If you can no longer perform the job because of your injuries, there are resources available to help train you for new skills. You will also be paid up to ⅔ your average salary for up to 350 weeks in the interim.
If you become injured in a work accident, hopefully your benefits will go through without issue. In the off chance that your employer wrongfully denies wrongdoing, call me. As Atlanta’s workers’ compensation lawyer, I’ll be happy to give you a complimentary consultation and help guide you through the process of attaining the funds and assistance you’re entitled to.
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