Georgia’s workers’ compensation system is a crucial safety net that provides financial and medical benefits to employees injured on the job. However, obtaining these vital benefits can become challenging when insurance carriers and/or employers contest valid claims. That’s where Parsons Law Group steps in.
Our firm is dedicated to helping injured workers in Atlanta and Savannah obtain the benefits they deserve. When you work with us, we will guide you through all aspects of the process and fight to protect your rights. We offer free consultations and will charge no attorneys’ fees until we win benefits for you. Contact us today to get started with a dedicated workers’ compensation attorney.
Understanding Worker’s Compensation in Georgia
Workers’ compensation is a mandatory, no-fault insurance system designed to protect employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Under this system, employees are entitled to benefits regardless of who is at fault for the injury. This approach ensures timely medical and financial support for injured workers, while also shielding employers from litigation.
In Georgia, all businesses with three or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, covering a range of benefits including medical care, income replacement, and rehabilitation services. Given the specific procedures and timeframes for reporting injuries and filing claims, having the informed representation Parsons Law Group provides is essential.
Common Types of Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries vary widely depending on the job and work environment, but certain types are common across various industries, such as:
- Repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome due to continuous, repetitive motions.
- Slips, trips, and falls can occur in any workplace setting, leading to fractures, sprains, or more serious injuries.
- Machinery accidents, particularly in manufacturing or industrial settings, often cause severe injuries or amputations.
Each industry carries specific risks that contribute to the likelihood of certain types of injuries. For example, construction workers face a higher risk of falls from heights or injuries from heavy machinery, while healthcare professionals are more prone to injuries from lifting patients or exposure to infectious diseases.
How To File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
To successfully file a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia, specific steps must be followed:
- Report the injury – Immediately inform your employer about the injury or illness. This step is critical and usually needs to be done within 30 days of the incident.
- Seek medical attention – Obtain treatment from an authorized healthcare provider. Proper medical documentation is key to supporting your claim.
- File a claim – Complete and submit Form WC-14 to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation to initiate the official claim process.
This may seem straightforward, however, the process can be challenging, especially when you are recovering from an injury and / or your employer is blaming you for the accident. That’s where Parsons Law Group can assist you. We have comprehensive knowledge of the worker’s compensation system and an impressive track record of successful outcomes.
Medical Evaluations in Worker’s Compensation Claims
We recognize the importance of independent medical evaluations in worker’s comp claims and help clients find appropriate medical professionals for an unbiased assessment of their injuries. This ensures that the medical evaluation reflects the true extent of the injury, rather than being influenced by the company’s interests. Our team regularly collaborates with a respected network of healthcare providers to ensure our clients receive both the necessary care and the solid medical evidence needed for a strong workers’ compensation claim.
What Benefits Are Available?
Georgia’s workers’ compensation system provides the following benefits:
- Medical benefits cover all necessary medical expenses related to the injury, such as hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Income benefits provide a portion of your lost wages if the injury prevents you from working, typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
- Permanent disability benefits in cases of long-term or permanent disabilities resulting from the injury.
Notably, all workers in the state have the right to receive fair treatment and timely benefits, to choose an authorized healthcare provider for a second opinion, and to seek legal representation to ensure their claim is handled correctly. When you partner with us, our experienced Georgia workers’ compensation attorney will handle all the details of your claims and work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests.
Employer Responsibilities
As mentioned above, all employers in Georgia with three or more employees are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance for their employees, which covers injuries and illnesses that occur as a result of employment. Additionally, employers must promptly report any workplace injuries to their insurance carrier and cooperate in the investigation and handling of claims. They are also responsible for maintaining a safe work environment to minimize the risk of accidents. Failing to meet these obligations can result in legal consequences
Third-Party Claims And Worker’s Compensation
Although workers’ comp is a no-fault system, you may have a valid third-party claim if someone else, like a manufacturer of faulty equipment or a negligent driver, was responsible for your injury. This means you can still receive workers’ compensation benefits and also seek additional damages to cover expenses not fully addressed by workers’ compensation, such as pain and suffering or total lost wages. If you get compensation from a third party, however, you may need to pay back some of the workers’ compensation benefits you received.
How Our Firm Can Help
At Parsons Law Group, we understand your physical, financial, and emotional burdens and can help to lift those burdens by providing you with compassionate, effective representation and dependable service. Backed by decades of experience, we know the ins and outs of Georgia’s workers’ compensation system. As former insurance defense attorneys, we know the tactics businesses use to deny workers their rightful benefits.
Trust us to guide you through every step of the process, from filing the initial claim to collecting the necessary medical evidence and negotiating with the insurance company. We are particularly skilled in tackling challenging cases, including those involving disputes over benefits and third-party liability issues. We leverage our extensive knowledge and resources to build strong cases, aiming for the best possible outcomes. With Parsons Law Group, you gain advocates and allies fighting to secure the benefits and compensation you deserve.
Talk to An Experienced Georgia Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a workplace injury, turn to Parsons Law Group, the experienced choice in workers’ compensation claims. Contact us today for a consultation.