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There are two crucial deadlines to remember if you sustain a work-related injury in Georgia. First, you must notify your employer of your injury within 30 days. Second, you must submit your claim for benefits to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation within one year of your injury. Missing either of these deadlines could jeopardize your recovery, so talk to a lawyer about your case as soon as possible.
What To Do After a Workplace Injury in Georgia
Acting quickly after a workplace injury protects your health, rights, and ability to get workers’ compensation benefits. Here’s what to do:
- Tell your employer right away – Report the injury to your boss or supervisor as soon as possible. In Georgia, you must notify them within 30 days, but sooner is always better. Submit your report in writing so there’s a definite record you can use in your claim.
- Get medical attention – Ask your employer for a list of approved doctors, then see one of those providers. If it’s an emergency, go to the ER first, then follow up with a company-approved doctor.
- Follow the doctor’s orders – Keep all your appointments, follow your doctor’s treatment instructions, and stick to any work restrictions your doctor gives you.
- File a workers’ comp claim – Your employer should file a claim with their insurance company, but it’s a good idea to double-check. You can also file Form WC-14 with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation yourself.
- Keep records – Save everything related to your injury, including your medical bills, prescriptions, records of time missed from work, and any communication with your employer or their insurance company.
What Benefits Are Available After a Workplace Injury in Georgia?
Your workers’ comp benefits depend on your injuries and how they affect your career. Based on these factors, your benefits could include:
- Medical care – If your employer accepts your claim, you receive full coverage for any necessary treatments related to your injury. This includes coverage of your doctor visits, any surgeries you need, hospital stays, physical therapy, and prescription medications—as long as you see an approved provider.
- Wage replacement – If your injury keeps you out of work for more than seven days, you may receive temporary total disability (TTD) benefits of two-thirds of your average weekly wage. Payments usually begin after the first week unless you’re out for more than 21 days, in which case you’ll also receive payment for the first seven days
- Temporary partial disability (TPD) – If you can return to work but earn less because of your injury, you may qualify for partial wage benefits to make up part of the difference.
- Permanent partial disability (PPD) – If your injury causes lasting damage, you might receive long-term benefits based on how severe the impairment is.
- Mileage reimbursement – You can receive payment for any travel costs related to your treatment, including trips to the doctor or pharmacy.
- Vocational rehabilitation – In some cases, your employer might cover the cost of job training or finding a new career if you can’t return to your previous job.
How Our Macon, GA, Workers’ Comp Lawyers Can Help
Our Macon workers’ comp lawyers know how stressful a work injury can be. We can make sure your claim is filed properly, help you avoid any delays, and fight back if your employer tries to unlawfully deny or cut off your benefits. We can also investigate to see if you qualify for additional compensation through a personal injury claim.
Let us take on the legal burden while you focus on healing. Call Joshua E. Palmer Law Firm now or complete our contact form for a free consultation with a Georgia workers’ comp lawyer.
