How Long Does Workers Comp Last in Georgia?

How Long Can I Receive Workers Compensation Benefits?

One of the most common questions that people ask an Atlanta workers compensation lawyer is, “how long does workers comp last?” The answer depends on the severity of your injury, how long you’re unable to return to work, and if you are permanently disabled.

The process of filing a workers compensation claim and getting the benefits you deserve can be complicated. Our attorneys are familiar with Georgia law and the workers compensation system. Call us today to speak with an experienced lawyer about your workers compensation case.

We offer a free consultation, so contact us today!

Weekly Wages Through Georgia Workers Compensation

In Georgia, workers’ compensation benefits provide weekly wage replacement if an employee is injured at work and unable to perform their duties. These benefits typically amount to two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage.

The duration of these benefits depends on the severity and type of injury. Temporary total disability benefits can last up to 400 weeks. If the worker can return to work in a reduced capacity, they may receive temporary partial disability benefits for up to 350 weeks.

How Long Does Workers Comp Last in Georgia?

Georgia law allows an injured worker to receive workers comp benefits for a maximum of 400 weeks. Workers compensation benefits don’t continue this long for everyone. How long you receive weekly benefits in your depends on several factors, such as:

  • The severity of the work-related injury.
  • The impact on your ability to work.
  • If you are left disabled.

If you are totally and permanently disabled from a workplace injury, you may be entitled to receive workers comp income benefits for life.

Medical Benefits Through Workers Compensation

In Georgia, workers’ compensation is designed cover a range of medical bills related to work injuries. Medical benefits typically include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, necessary medical tests, physical therapy, and any required medical devices. The goal is to ensure that injured employees receive the necessary medical treatments without incurring out-of-pocket expenses.

Workers’ compensation should cover medical costs until you reach maximum medical improvement. MMI is the point where continued medical intervention is not expected to improve your condition. The workers compensation insurance company will terminate benefits at this point.

What If I Have a Permanent Disability After Maximum Medical Improvement?

If you have a permanent disability once you reach MMI, you will have to make sure that you get a correct disability rating and apply for permanent workers’ comp disability benefits.

If you are left with an impairment but can work in some capacity, you may be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits. Permanent disability benefits are calculated based on a disability rating determined by an impairment rating evaluation. This rating uses a percentage scale.

If you suffered a catastrophic injury leaving you unable to perform any gainful employment, you may qualify for permanent total disability benefits. In this situation, you may receive lifetime benefits.

How Long Does Workers Comp Last in Georgia?

Choosing the Right Doctor

Under workers compensation law, Georgia employers are required to provide a panel of at least six physicians from which an injured employee must choose their treating doctor. Make sure to choose an authorized treating physician approved by the employer’s insurance company. Otherwise, your medical treatment may not be covered by workers comp insurance.

If a injured worker feels that the authorized physician is biased or not providing adequate care, they have the right to request a change, often with the assistance of a workers’ compensation attorney to ensure proper procedure and documentation.

Can You Still Receive Benefits If You Lose Your Job?

If an employee is terminated while receiving workers’ comp benefits, the termination itself does not automatically stop the benefits. However, the duration and continuation of the benefits primarily depend on the severity of the injury and the individual’s ability to return to work, as determined by a doctor.

Georgia is an at-will employment state, so businesses don’t need a reason to fire workers. However, employers cannot legally fire employees in retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If an injured worker is fired for filing a workers comp claim, the employee may have grounds for legal action.

Who Qualifies for Workers Compensation in Georgia?

Georgia law requires all businesses with three or more employees to carry workers compensation coverage. This includes both full-time and part-time workers. If you suffer a work-related accident or develop an occupational disease related to your job, you’re most likely covered by workers compensation.

In some cases, you can obtain workers compensation benefits for mental health conditions related to a physical injury.

A Georgia workers compensation lawyer can help if you have questions about your eligibility. You can reach out to our Atlanta law firm for a free consultation.

How Soon Will I Receive Workers Compensation Benefits?

If you are unable to work for more than seven days due to a work-related injury, you are eligible to receive benefits. The first check should be mailed within 21 days from the first day you missed work. It’s important to report the injury to your employer immediately and seek medical care from an authorized physician to ensure timely processing of your workers compensation claim.

What to Do to Get Workers Comp Benefits

In order to receive workers compensation, injured workers must take the right steps after a workplace accident.

  • Report a work injury to your supervisor immediately. You must notify the employer within 30 days or you can be denied workers compensation benefits.
  • Get medical care as soon as possible, and be sure to choose a doctor from the list of approved physicians provided by the employer.
  • Make sure you file your claim with the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation within one year.

Talk to an Atlanta Workers Comp Lawyer for Free!

An Atlanta workers compensation lawyer can be instrumental in navigating the complexities of a workers compensation claim. They can help by ensuring that all necessary documentation is accurately completed and submitted on time and advocate for fair compensation for medical expenses and lost wages.

Additionally, they can help address any disputes with the employer or insurance company and represent you if your workers comp claim is rejected.

Here is how our team can help you:

  • Maximize your workers comp benefits
  • Protect your rights
  • Negotiate with the insurance company
  • Appeal a denied claim

We represent clients on a contingency fee basis. This means that we get paid only after we win your claim. We offer each new client a free consultation, so contact us today!