Accidents at work can occur in any occupation, but industries such as transportation, construction, manufacturing, and mining are particularly prone to injuries due to the inherent risks and hazards. If you have been harmed or made ill due to hazardous working conditions, it is important to speak with a Riverdale workers’ compensation lawyer.
At Humphrey and Ballard Law, we will fight to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits possible. We understand that navigating the workers’ compensation system can be difficult, which is why our personal injury lawyers are here to help you.
To schedule a free case review, contact us at 404-341-0499.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available in Georgia?
In Georgia, workers’ compensation benefits can include:
- Medical expenses: coverage for the cost of medical treatment related to the work injury or illness, including hospital stays, doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, and prescription medications.
- Temporary total disability benefits: weekly payments to compensate for lost wages if an employee is unable to work due to their injury or illness.
- Permanent total disability benefits: payments to employees who are permanently unable to work due to their injury or illness.
- Permanent partial disability benefits: payments to employees who have a permanent impairment as a result of their injury or illness, but are able to return to work in some capacity.
- Vocational rehabilitation: assistance for employees who need training or education to return to work after an injury or illness.
- Death benefits: payments to the surviving dependents of an employee who died as a result of a work-related injury or illness.
It’s important to note that not all injured employees are eligible for all these benefits, and the specific benefits and the duration of time they are paid vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
What Should I Do if I’m Hurt on the Job?
Being hurt at work is a stressful experience, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. You should follow these steps to put yourself in the best position.
Report the Injury to Your Employer
Be sure to report the incident to your supervisor or employer as soon as you can, both verbally and in writing. Informing a co-worker just won’t suffice. Keep in mind that you must report your injury within 30 days or you risk losing the ability to claim benefits.
Obtain Emergency Medical Care and Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
Make an appointment with one of your employer’s approved doctors as soon as possible after the accident. If you need emergency care, go to the nearest hospital. Be sure to also follow the doctor’s instructions.
Take Photographs and Notes
Take photos or videos of the scene and the resulting injuries if you are able to. It’s also wise to make detailed notes about the accident, including the names of any witnesses and the date. You will want to have proof if your employer tries to claim that your injury was not work-related.
Contact a Workers’ Comp Attorney
It is important to reach out to an experienced Riverdale workers’ comp attorney as soon as possible. At Humphrey and Ballard Law, we provide an initial consultation at no cost. We can assist in determining if you have a valid case, and advise on the appropriate next steps to take.
Why Do I Need a Riverdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
There are several reasons why you may want to consider hiring a Georgia workers’ compensation lawyer:
The Complexity of the Process
The workers’ compensation process can be complex and confusing, and it can be difficult to navigate on your own. A lawyer can guide you through the process and ensure that all the necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time.
Maximizing Benefits
A lawyer can help you understand the benefits you are entitled to and fight for the maximum amount possible. They can also help you negotiate with the insurance company and make sure you are getting the full amount of benefits you deserve.
Handling Disputes
If your claim is denied or you disagree with the amount of benefits you are receiving, a lawyer can represent you in disputes and appeals.
Representation
A lawyer can help you communicate with the insurance company, the employer, and the doctor in order to strengthen your case. They can also communicate with the court in case you have to go to a hearing.
Experience
A workers’ compensation lawyer has experience and knowledge of the workers’ compensation laws and regulations, and can help you understand the system and how to best present your case.
Overall, hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer can help protect your rights and make sure you receive the benefits you are entitled to, so you can focus on recovering from your injury or illness.
How Much Does a Georgia Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Cost?
At Humphrey and Ballard Law, our workers’ compensation lawyers operate on a contingency basis. This means you only pay us if you recover benefits. If we don’t win your case, you pay nothing. We also offer a free initial consultation for all prospective clients.
What Are the Employee’s Responsibilities in the Workers’ Comp Process?
As an employee, it is your responsibility to report any workplace incidents to your employer as soon as possible, both verbally and in writing. It is important to do this within 30 days of the incident. You should also seek medical attention from a licensed healthcare professional and inform them that your condition or injury is related to your job. This will allow you to make a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia.
If you are unable to report the incident or draft an injury report yourself, a friend or family member can assist you. It is important to follow the advice of your physician in order to receive the maximum amount of compensation. Our Riverdale workers’ compensation lawyers are available to guide you through the complex process.
What Should I Do If My Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?
There are many reasons why insurance companies deny workers comp claims in Riverdale, GA. If your claim has been denied, reach out to a reputable workers’ compensation lawyer immediately. Our legal team will request a hearing with the Georgia State Board of Workers Compensation (SBWC) by filing a Notice of Claim form WC-14.
What Is My Georgia Workers’ Compensation Claim Worth?
You can recover benefits for your weekly wages and medical expenses after a successful claim. After a workplace accident, the benefits you receive mainly depend on your ability to work and the extent of your injury. Here are some of the benefits you may recover from after a workplace injury in Riverdale, GA.
Medical Expenses
They include bills such as surgery costs, physical therapy costs, prescription medication, and any necessary travel expenses due to your injury. The employer’s insurance provider pays these costs.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) Benefits
These benefits are offered to employees who are able to return to work or perform a modified version of their previous job. This compensation aims to fill the financial gap between their last and current salary. It’s usually two-thirds of the difference between these salaries. TPD stops once you attain maximum medical improvement (MMI) or after 350 weeks.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits
If you are unable to work for a week, you may be entitled to TTD. There’s a $575 weekly cap on these benefits. TTD lasts for 400 weeks or until you attain MMI. These benefits cover two-thirds of your average weekly wage before your workplace accident.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits
You can receive these benefits if you’ve suffered permanent damage, but you can still perform some job-related tasks. You may be eligible for either scheduled or unscheduled awards for your injuries. Compensation benefits for injuries to the legs, hands, fingers, eyes, or eyes are considered scheduled awards, while those to the spinal cord, brain, and other organs are unscheduled awards.
Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits
These payments are calculated according to your impairment rating. They are only awarded once a physician affirms that your treatment is complete. You can receive PTD for injuries such as paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, blindness, and amputations.
Contact Humphrey and Ballard Law Today!
If you have been injured while on the job, your employer is responsible for covering your medical expenses and lost wages. As an employee, you have the right to receive benefits following a workplace accident. Our legal team at Humphrey and Ballard Law is available to discuss your options with you.
To schedule a complimentary case evaluation, please contact us at 404-341-0499. Our workers’ compensation lawyers prioritize your needs and will work diligently to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible. Allow our reputable Riverdale injury law firm to assist you in moving forward after your accident.
