FAQs About Georgia Workers’ Compensation

Being injured can be a difficult experience, especially if the injury is serious or the worker is unsure of whether or not workers’ compensation will cover expenses. Although nearly all Atlanta workers are eligible for benefits after being injured, many of them are unfamiliar with how the claims process work. It is very normal for injured workers to have questions regarding workers’ compensation and the process of collecting benefits. If you are an injured worker that is unsure of your rights, you may wish to speak to a workers’ compensation attorney. To better understand the workers’ compensation program, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions in Georgia.

How Do I File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Atlanta?

An injured worker in Atlanta must fill out the WC-14 form and submit it to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation and provide a copy to the employer. The form may be obtained online at the Board’s website, by calling 404-656-3818, or writing to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

How Much Time Do I Have to File a Claim?

Timing is very important after an accident in the workplace. In order to qualify to receive benefits through workers’ compensation, injured workers in Georgia typically must file a claim within one year of the accident or within two years of the date of the last benefits check was paid. Failing to do so disqualifies them from collecting benefits. However, there are some exceptions for which this deadline is extended. For instance, if the injuries resulted in death, a claim may be filed by survivors within a year of the date of death.

When Does Workers’ Compensation Coverage Start?

Nearly all employers in Atlanta are required to provide Workers’ Compensation coverage for their employees. The coverage takes effect immediately upon commencing work and an employee is eligible to collect benefits through the program regardless of if they have been working for five minutes, five years, or fifty years.

How Much Will I Receive in Benefits?

According to the law, Injured workers in Georgia are entitled to weekly income benefits that are equivalent to two-thirds of their average weekly pay or a maximum of $550. In addition, the employer must also pay for any medical treatment necessary for the injured worker to reach maximum recovery.

Am I Still Eligible for Workers’ Compensation If I Am Only Part-time?

The law in Georgia specifies that employers must carry workers’ compensation if they employ three or more persons, part or fulltime. A part-time employee that is injured on the job is covered through workers’ compensation and could be eligible for exactly the same types of benefits.

Can I Be Fired for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

According to Georgia laws, it is illegal for an employer to fire an employee for filing a workers’ compensation claim. The employer cannot legally exact any type of punishment or retaliatory behavior on the employee. However, the employer may terminate the employee for completely unrelated reasons. If you suspect an employer is retaliating against you for filing a claim, it is best to contact a workers’ compensation attorney to help you through the available retaliatory actions.

Do I Need an Attorney?

Whether or not an injured worker requires the assistance of an attorney when filing for workers’ compensation is highly dependent on the nature of their individual case and injuries. For a free consultation with one of our qualified workers’ compensation attorneys, injured workers can call Workers Compensation Lawyers at 678-504-6565. A Workers Compensation Lawyers attorney can help you to understand exactly what your rights are and how to proceed with your claim.]]>