Georgia Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
The workers’ comp attorneys at Adams Law Firm in Macon doggedly defend the rights of injured workers throughout the state of Georgia – no matter the size or complexity of the claim. If you or someone you love has been injured in a workplace accident, our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers can guide you through the claims process.
Workplace Injury Statistics
Workplace accidents and injuries occur far too often. Over 100 Georgians suffer fatal work injuries each year, and up to 120,000 suffer on-the-job injuries and illnesses that require time off work.
What Are Common Work Injuries?
Workers’ compensation cases can cover a wide range of accidents and injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Sprains and strains resulting from falls or overexertion
- Cancers and other illnesses caused by exposure to dangerous substances or chemicals
- Burns from fires, explosions, equipment, frostbite or chemicals
- Respiratory illnesses from unsafe or unsanitary work conditions
Car and truck accidents are the leading causes of work-related death. Delivery drivers and those who operate heavy machinery and equipment are especially at risk. If you lost a loved one in a workplace accident, our personal injury lawyers also handle wrongful death claims.
A failure to abide by safety regulations or a failure to provide proper training can indicate employer negligence. If there was an equipment failure due to a flaw in the design or improper maintenance, then you may also have a products liability case.
What Should You Do After An Accident At Work?
When an injury occurs in the workplace, it’s important to take action quickly. Medical needs should immediately be assessed. If injuries are serious, call 911 and follow your medical provider’s instructions.
No matter the severity of the injury, the employee or employee’s advocate should immediately begin collecting all related facts and information. Any witnesses should be interviewed right away to avoid any details fading from their memory. Your employer should also be informed in writing that an injury occurred on the job.
To inform your employer, you can send an email or letter as soon as possible stating:
- When and where the accident occurred
- How the accident happened
- Details regarding the injuries you sustained and their effects
Make sure to keep a copy of this and other relevant documentation – including medical bills and receipts – in a safe place. These materials are invaluable to your workers’ comp claim.
Learning More About Georgia’s Workers’ Compensation Policies
When filing a workers’ compensation claim, there are multiple rules you have to follow. We address the common inquiries about the state’s standards on work injuries.
How long do I have to report a work injury in Georgia?
Under Georgia’s workers’ compensation law, you have 30 days from the date of the incident to report the work injury to your supervisor. While verbal notice legally suffices, present your written notice to have clear and tangible proof that you submitted on time.
It is advisable that you submit your report as soon as possible instead of waiting out the 30 days. Prompt action can help you avoid any issues that can arise and prevent you from filing later.
Do I have to see the doctor my employer chooses?
Generally, you do not have to see a specific doctor your employer chooses. However, your choice must come from your employer’s pre-approved panel of physicians of at least six approved doctors. You have a one-time opportunity to change to another doctor on that panel without employer permission.
Seeking care from an unauthorized doctor outside your employer’s panel of physicians can put your claim at risk, as the insurer may refuse to cover unauthorized treatment.
What if my workers’ compensation claim is denied in Georgia?
Georgia law offers you the chance to appeal the denial of your workers’ compensation claim. To start the process, you must file a hearing request or Form WC-14 with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation within one year of the injury. During this process, you must present evidence to counter the denial to an administrative law judge. Depending on your claim’s case, escalations to the Appellate Division and Georgia Superior Court are possible.
You are welcome to discuss with us any concerns you may have about workers’ compensation claims in Georgia.
We Help Workers Secure Fair Compensation
Our workers’ comp attorneys proudly defend the rights of injured workers throughout the state of Georgia. If you have been injured while at work, you deserve effective medical treatment and fair compensation. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you understand which benefits you can pursue when you file for workers’ comp in Georgia. A workers’ comp attorney can answer your questions and help you navigate the claims process in Georgia.
We can also assist you in the event that your claim has been wrongly delayed or denied. Even if you think your injuries aren’t severe enough to warrant hiring a lawyer, it may be worth consulting an experienced attorney. A consultation and case evaluation can be valuable and help you learn more about your rights and options as an injured worker. Our personal injury lawyers understand the complexities of legal claims involving injured workers.
Call Now For Your Free Consultation
Our workers’ compensation lawyers offer clients a free case evaluation. During this initial consultation, we can answer your questions and tell you more about how we can help you with your workers’ compensation claims. You can schedule your free appointment by calling 478-238-0231 or by sending us an email.
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