Whether you work on a construction site or in an office, you could suffer a severe injury while on the job. In most situations, workplace injuries are covered by workers’ compensation insurance. Employers purchase this type of insurance to cover injured employees’ medical costs and lost wages in the event of an injury while on the job.
Some employers and insurance companies will do everything in their power to avoid paying you fair compensation for your injury. Our attorneys are well versed in personal injury law and can help you fight for what you deserve. Speak with our Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyers today to begin discussing your case.
Common Types of Workplace Accidents
Every workplace carries pose hazards, but some jobs are more dangerous than others. An office job is less likely to cause a serious injury than a factory position. Common on-the-job accidents that are subject to workers’ compensation coverage include:
- Defective equipment accidents
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Explosions and building fires
- Falling merchandise
- Scaffolding and ladder falls
- Construction vehicle accidents
Any employee who has been injured in one of these on-the-job accidents should consult a lawyer about their eligibility for workers’ compensation.
Benefits Available Through Workers’ Compensation in Atlanta
The Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation defines workers’ compensation and outlines the various benefits available to injured employees. The forms of compensation available depend on the worker’s specific injuries and the treatment they will require/treatment they have received. Compensation may include lost wages, medical treatment, and permanent disability.
Lost Wages
The workers’ compensation system may pay up to two-thirds of the plaintiff’s weekly wages, with a limit of $675 each week. Further limitations may apply to these benefits in certain situations.
Medical Treatment
The cost of medical treatment should be fully covered by workers’ compensation. Unfortunately, insurance companies and employers may try to minimize the employee’s injuries to limit what insurance will have to pay for treatment.
Permanent Disability
If a person is permanently disabled as the result of an accident, the injured individual may continue to get weekly benefits for the rest of their life, depending on the case.
How to Apply for Workers’ Compensation
A plaintiff/injured party must file a WC-14 form to begin the claims process. The State Board of Workers’ Compensation will then analyze the submission and determine whether coverage is appropriate. If approved, benefits will be paid to the plaintiff/injured party.
If a claim is denied, the ruling can be appealed. Workers’ compensation appeals are complicated and subject to administrative rules. An experienced attorney who knows how to handle workers’ compensation claims can guide an injured employee through this process.
Talk to an Atlanta Workers’ Compensation Attorney Right Away
If you were hurt while on the job, consider seeking payment from your employer through worker’s compensation. Pursuing benefits is often complicated, but you do not have to go through this alone. Call our law firm today to speak with an Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer about your potential case.
