Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation protects workers.
If you’ve been injured on the job, your employer must provide compensation for medical expenses, lost income and rehabilitation to get you back to work as soon as possible. If a loved one has died while working, this program can also provide death benefits to family members.
Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company has lawyers looking out for its best interests. Hiring an attorney indicates you are taking care of your own best interests. We will advise you at each stage of the claim process and arrange for additional expert support if your case requires it. Our firm can also prepare a strong claim for you if there are complicating factors such as third-party involvement in your injury, or if your employer is disputing your claim.
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What the law says:
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance is required for Georgia employers with three or more employees. Generally your treatment must come from a list of medical professionals pre-approved by your employer.
- Your employer’s insurance will pay for medical bills associated with the injury including hospital stays, doctor visits, medication, therapy and travel to and from appointments.
- If your injury prohibits you from returning to the same job, you can get help finding or learning a new job.
- You can receive benefits for injuries including loss of limb, sight, hearing or use of a part of your body.
- If you are permanently disabled, you can also receive weekly benefits.
What’s covered:
Any injury which occurs at work: Including acute injuries and illnesses from one time accidents, like spinal cord injuries, to injuries that build over time, like carpal tunnel syndrome. Compensation is provided for a spectrum of ailments, including:
- Arthritis
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Chemical exposure like lead or asbestos
- Dental damage
- Eye injuries
- Knee damage
- Lung damage from toxic air
Negligence
In Georgia, almost all workplace injuries are compensated under the umbrella of the workers’ compensation system. If your employer or co-workers’ negligence contributed to circumstances that led to an injury, the case will still be settled with a workers’ compensation case. You cannot sue your employer for negligence.