Dunwoody, GA Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
If you’ve been injured at work, there’s a good chance you qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Although this system is intended to be simple to navigate, some employers and insurance companies make it very hard for employees to access the benefits they deserve.
That’s where we can help. At The Monk Law Firm, we are committed to helping hard-working Georgians get the workers’ comp benefits they are owed. Call us at 404-255-5556 to speak to one of our workers’ comp lawyers now.
Frequent Workplace Injuries in Georgia
Workplace injuries in Georgia happen in all industries, but some injuries are more common than others. Slips and falls are frequent, particularly in places like construction sites or warehouses. These accidents often lead to broken bones or sprains.
Repetitive motion injuries are also widespread, especially in jobs requiring constant typing or manual labor. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis are typical examples of these injuries. In fields involving heavy machinery, workers might face crush injuries or even amputations due to mishaps.
Overexertion is another frequent issue, occurring when employees lift heavy objects or engage in physically demanding tasks without proper breaks or help. This can lead to significant back or muscle pain.
Burns and cuts are common in industries like food service and manufacturing. Workers in these fields often deal with hot surfaces, sharp tools, and hazardous materials, increasing the risk of injury.
Respiratory issues can arise in environments where workers are exposed to harmful fumes or dust, such as in factories or chemical plants. Prolonged exposure can lead to long-term health problems.
Who Qualifies for Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation in Georgia is set up to help workers who get hurt or sick because of their job. If you are a full-time or part-time employee and you get injured while doing your job, you are likely eligible for these benefits. This also includes injuries that happen off-site, as long as they are work-related. Benefits and administration are overseen by the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.
Some workers, like independent contractors, may not qualify for these benefits. Whether you qualify can depend on various factors, like the type of work you do and how much control your employer has over your tasks.
In Georgia, employers must have workers’ compensation insurance if they have three or more employees. Knowing your employment status and your employer’s responsibilities can help you understand if you can receive benefits.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits Available
Workers’ compensation benefits in Georgia are designed to help injured workers manage their recovery process. If you get hurt on the job, your medical expenses will typically be covered. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and surgeries related to the injury.
If you can’t work temporarily because of your injury, you may be eligible for temporary total disability benefits. These usually cover about two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a current maximum amount of $800 per week. For workers who can return to work but in a reduced capacity or with fewer hours, temporary partial disability benefits might be available.
In cases where the injury leads to a lasting impairment, permanent disability benefits are provided. These can be either partial or total, depending on the extent of your impairment.
Reasons Your Claim Might Be Rejected
There are several reasons why a workers’ compensation claim might be denied. One common issue is not reporting the injury on time. In Georgia, you need to inform your employer within 30 days. Missing this deadline can be a big problem.
Another frequent reason for rejection is incomplete or incorrect paperwork. Ensure that all forms are filled out properly and that you provide detailed medical records to back up your claim. If there are gaps or errors in your documentation, it can hurt your chances of approval.
Sometimes, claims are denied because the injury is not considered work-related. For instance, if you get hurt while off-duty or doing something unrelated to your job, your claim might be questioned. It’s crucial to prove that the injury happened while you were performing your work duties.
Suspicions of fraud can also lead to denial. If there’s any doubt about the authenticity of your claim, it might be rejected. Unfortunately, the investigative processes used by many insurance companies may lead them to call fraud on completely legitimate workers’ compensation claims.
How The Monk Law Firm Can Assist You
Our legal team in Dunwoody is here to help you through the challenges of the workers’ compensation process. We know how overwhelming it can be to deal with an injury on top of navigating legal requirements. That’s where we step in.
First, we can help gather all the necessary evidence to support your claim. This includes collecting medical records, witness statements, and any other relevant documents. Ensuring that everything is accurate and complete increases your chances of a successful claim.
We also handle all the paperwork and communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf. Insurance companies often try to minimize the benefits they pay out. Our experience in negotiation ensures that you receive the full benefits you deserve.
If your claim has been denied, don’t lose hope. We can assist you in filing an appeal and building a strong case to challenge the decision. Our team knows the ins and outs of the appeals process and will fight to get you the compensation you need.
Having a knowledgeable legal team on your side can make a big difference. We are committed to advocating for your rights and helping you secure a stable financial future.
Was Your Claim Denied? Are You Not Receiving Benefits? Call The Monk Law Firm
Unpaid workers’ compensation benefits can leave Georgia families without the money they need to pay their bills or put food on the table. We can help you as you seek justice. Reach out to us today to find out how we can support you in your workers’ compensation case. Just call us at 404-255-5556 or contact us online.