Top Workers’ Comp Attorneys in Augusta, GA

3523 Walton Way Ext, Augusta GA 30909, United States | 706-426-9555 | Map & Directions
 

A Way Forward for Augusta, GA Work Accident Victims

If you’ve experienced a workplace accident or injury due to someone else’s negligence in Augusta, Georgia, seeking compensation for your damages is crucial. Most Georgia employers are required to provide this coverage. Our seasoned Augusta personal injury lawyers have over 40 years of experience helping individuals pursue justice and financial recovery, and restore their lives post-injury. Contact us, and let us guide you through your workers’ compensation case. Book a free, no-obligation case review below or contact us at 706-426-9555.
 

Moving Forward After a Work Injury

If you sustain an injury while on the job in Augusta, you must take prompt action to begin a successful workers’ compensation case. Start by seeking immediate medical attention and notifying your manager or supervisor about the incident. Your employer should then provide you with a workers’ compensation claim form, or complete one themselves.

Filing a workers’ compensation claim quickly is crucial, as delays might raise questions about the legitimacy of your injury in the eyes of insurance companies. When submitting the claim, provide comprehensive details, including the accident’s location, the injury’s circumstances, date and time, and any potential witnesses.

Consistent attendance at follow-up medical appointments is essential to secure your ongoing workers’ compensation benefits. Call the CorVel 24/7 Nurse Line at (855) 443-5795, option 1, for injury evaluation and care direction. CorVel nurses have access to the Augusta Panel of Physicians and can help you coordinate your claim. Don’t hesitate—act fast to protect your rights and ensure fair compensation for your workplace injury.

When To Hire a Workers’ Comp Attorney?

If you’ve experienced a work-related injury, hiring a workers’ compensation attorney can provide some much needed support to handle the complexities in your workers’ comp case. Moreover, immediate legal assistance is crucial if your employer denies your claim, delays benefits, or offers inadequate settlements. Issues like medical challenges preventing your return to work, employer retaliation, or insurer resistance also warrant legal intervention.

Contacting legal help early on will provide the guidance you need to navigate the intricate process and improve your chances for a favorable outcome. It’s advised to consult or hire an attorney as soon as possible. Keep in mind that many lawyers offer, including George Sink P.A. Injury Lawyers, provide fee structures that relieve immediate financial concerns. Prioritize self-care by seeking prompt medical attention and watch the informative video below to help you better understand the system and how we can help you seek benefits:

Who is Eligible for Workers’ Compensation in Augusta, GA?

In Augusta, GA, most employees are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits,which provide coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and more after a work-related injury. Exclusions, though rare, include specific categories such as U.S. government agencies, railroad carriers, farm laborers, domestic servants, and employees in businesses with fewer than three regular workers.

Sole proprietors or business partnerships are considered employers, but they can choose coverage as employees. Specific situations, like injuries due to drug or alcohol use or workplace fights, may not be covered. To qualify for benefits, an employee must demonstrate that the injury was work-related in nature, and prove that it was not deliberately self-inflicted.

What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Can You Receive?

Workers’ Compensation in Augusta, Georgia provides crucial benefits to injured employees. These include: medical treatment and related expenses, ongoing care costs, pain and suffering damages, compensation for lost wages during recovery, permanent total or partial disability, funeral and burial benefits for fatal workplace accidents, rehabilitation support, and potential for dependents to receive benefits if an employee passes away due to a work-related injury.

Injured employees may also be eligible for additional compensation by holding a third party liable for the damage.

Does Workers’ Comp Pay Full Salary in Augusta, GA?

Workers’ compensation does not typically compensate for a full salary. It will include payments to help cover some lost wages, but you can receive a limited amount of money from a claim. However, if you can’t work for more than a week because of your injuries, you may get temporary total disability benefits. These benefits usually give you two-thirds of your weekly pay before the accident.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Not Cover in Augusta?

Workers’ compensation in Augusta helps cover medical costs and lost wages for on-the-job injuries, but there are instances where it doesn’t provide complete coverage. Here are some situations and conditions not covered:

• Injuries during breaks, lunch, or personal activities.
• Specific groups like railroad employees, farm laborers, longshoremen, independent contractors, some business owners, and volunteers.
• Federal employees, who are covered by the Federal Employee’s Compensation Act (FECA).
• Certain situations where workers may not receive benefits, such as failure to report the injury promptly or engaging in illegal activities.
• Claims for conditions not covered or disputes about the work-related nature of the injury.

It’s crucial to promptly report injuries, follow proper procedures, and avoid engaging in illegal activities to ensure workers’ compensation benefits eligibility.

Can You Be Fired if You File a Workers’ Comp Claim or While You Are on Workers’ Comp?

Your job can be terminated in Georgia while you’re on workers’ compensation. Georgia is an “at-will” employment state, meaning employers can fire you for any legal reason. However, if you suspect your workers’ comp claim is the cause, contact a workers’ compensation lawyer immediately. Retaliatory termination, firing someone for filing a workers’ comp claim, is against the law, but employers often hide the real reason.

If you think you were fired due to your injury or claim, a workers’ comp lawyer can help investigate and gather evidence for a potential discrimination lawsuit. While Georgia doesn’t entirely protect workers from post-injury termination, legal representation can guide you in seeking fair benefits.

How to Apply For Workers’ Compensation?

In Georgia, applying for workers’ compensation involves several steps:

1^st Notify your employer of your work-related injury promptly.

2^nd Seek medical care from an authorized provider. You employer may provide a list.

3^rd Your employer submits a First Report of Injury (Form WC-1), and the workers’ comp insurance company investigates.

4^th They issue a Claim Decision, either accepting, denying, or covering medical care without disability benefits.

5^th Upon receiving a Form WC-1, consult an attorney to protect your rights. Contact a lawyer if you get a Form WC-2 or WC-3 notifying you of benefits decisions. Filing a Notice of Claim and/or Request for Hearing (Form WC-14) may be necessary to protect your rights.

Why Would a Workers’ Comp Claim Be Denied and What Should You Do?

Workers’ comp claims may be denied for various reasons, and it’s crucial to understand your options. Common causes include:

There were no witnesses to the accident. Claiming idiopathic injuries or pre-existing conditions. Missing the reporting deadline.

Disputing employee classification Alleging failed drug tests.

Medical documentation and prompt injury reports can significantly help in disputing a denied claim. If your claim is denied in Augusta, Georgia consult a workers’ comp attorney for appeals.

How Long Do You Have To Report an Injury at Work in Augusta, GA?

In Augusta, GA, if you get hurt at work, it’s crucial to explicitly report your injury to your employer (specifically a supervisor) within 30 days, and file a workers’ comp claim within a year of the injury date.

Early reporting helps you start recovering income benefits sooner. It is also essential to seek prompt medical care, follow treatment instructions and track expenses. If you’re unsure about deadlines or want to strengthen your claim, consider working with a workers’ compensation attorney from the start. We can guide you through the process, ensuring you meet all requirements and helping you build a robust case for the benefits you deserve.

How Long Does an Average Workers’ Comp Case Take?

The duration of a workers’ compensation case varies, averaging between 12-18 months. The process involves filing, legal representation, and negotiation. Having legal representation may slightly extend the timeline, but in exchange it offers support in negotiating for fair compensation, injuries and losses, and increases the chances of a favorable outcome.

How Long Does It Take To Receive Workers’ Comp Checks?

After reporting a work injury in Georgia, your initial income benefits are expected within 21 days. Subsequent weekly payments should follow unless an alternate schedule is authorized by the State Board of Workers’ Compensation. These benefits may be issued through cash, check, electronic transfer, or another agreed-upon method. If there’s a delay in the agreed-upon payment, inform your employer as soon as possible.

The insurance company typically mails checks within three weeks, but direct deposit may expedite the process. If you are out of work for more than 21 days, compensation for the initial seven days may come in a separate check or be included in the next payment. Seeking legal advice from an Augusta workers’ compensation lawyer is advisable if issues persist.

How Long Can You Receive Workers’ Comp Benefits?

If a work-related injury keeps you from working for more than seven days, you can get two-thirds of your weekly wages, capped at $575 per week. You may receive wage benefits for up to 400 weeks, depending on your injury. However, in cases of permanent and total disability (e.g., paralysis or serious brain injury), they can be lifelong.

If you return to work at a reduced capacity, you might still get workers’ compensation benefits to help make up for the resulting reduced wage. These benefits could last for up to 350 weeks. The duration may vary based on individual circumstances when someone can work in some capacity. The decision is typically made case by case.

What if You Can’t Return to Your Job After an Injury?

If you can’t return to your job after a work-related injury, it’s crucial to understand your rights. While many workers are at-will employees, meaning they can be fired for various reasons, it’s illegal to terminate someone in retaliation for filing a workers’ comp claim. Legitimate grounds for termination include being replaced due to job duties, receiving an impairment rating after Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), inability to meet job standards, financial constraints, policy violations, excessive absences, or substance use at work.

If you suspect wrongful termination, contact a workers’ comp attorney. Note that workers’ comp benefits and unemployment insurance are typically exclusive, except in cases of permanent partial disability (PPD) with work restrictions and reduced salary while job hunting, where both may be possible with legal guidance.

What Are Common Causes of Workplace Accidents in Augusta, GA?

Common causes of workplace accidents include:

• Slip and Fall Accidents: Instances where workers slip or trip, leading to injuries.
• Scaffolding Accidents: Injuries occurring while working on or near scaffolding structures.
• Caught-in-Between Accidents: When a worker gets caught between two objects, causing harm.
• Injuries from Heavy Lifting: Accidents resulting from lifting heavy objects, causing physical harm.
• Exposure to Toxic Substances: Harm caused by contact with harmful chemicals or toxic materials.
• Construction Site Accidents: Injuries related to construction work and site activities.
• Manufacturing Accidents: Mishaps that occur in manufacturing settings.
• Welding Accidents: Accidents involving welding processes.
• Factory Accidents: Injuries that happen within a factory environment.
• Fires and Explosions: Accidents involving fires or explosive incidents.
• Electrocution Accidents: Harm caused by electric shock.
• Exposure to Live Electricity: Instances where workers come into contact with live electricity.
• Roof and Ladder Falls: Injuries resulting from falling from roofs or ladders.
• Accidents with Heavy Machinery: Mishaps involving large, powerful machinery.
• Unsafe Work Equipment: Injuries caused by malfunctioning or unsafe tools and equipment.
• Car Accidents: Mishaps involving vehicles within a work context.
• Truck Accidents: Injuries resulting from accidents with trucks.
• Failure to Follow Safety Regulations: Neglecting OSHA and state safety guidelines.
• Lack of Safety Protection: Absence of proper safety measures and equipment.
• Communication Failures: Issues related to communication within the workplace.
• Improper Employee Training: Lack of proper training for workers.
• Lack of Supervision: Inadequate oversight of workplace activities.
• Inexperienced Workers: Employing workers without sufficient experience.
• Defective Work Equipment: Issues arising from malfunctioning or defective tools and machinery.

What Are the Most Common Workplace Injuries in Augusta, GA?

Workers may experience diverse injuries in job-related incidents, with common claims for the following injuries:

• Back Injuries: Strains, sprains, or other injuries affecting the back.
• Crush Injuries: Harm caused by compression of body parts between objects.
• Hearing Damage: Impairment or loss of hearing due to workplace conditions.
• Vision Loss: Partial or complete loss of vision resulting from work-related factors.
• Broken Bones: Fractures or breaks in bones due to accidents at the workplace.
• Burns: Injuries caused by exposure to heat, chemicals, or fire.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries: Damage to the brain due to severe accidents or impacts.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Harm to the spinal cord, often resulting in mobility issues.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries: Injuries affecting the hands or wrists during work.
• Concussions: Brain injuries caused by sudden impacts or violent shaking.
• Amputation Injuries: Loss of limbs or body parts in workplace accidents.
• Paralysis: Loss of muscle function, often due to severe injuries.
• Repetitive Stress Injuries: Conditions resulting from repetitive motions or strain.
• Occupational Diseases: Illnesses caused by workplace exposures over time.
• Lung Damage and Respiratory Illnesses: Conditions affecting the respiratory system.
• Catastrophic Injuries: Severe injuries with long-lasting or permanent consequences.
• Wrongful Death of a Loved One: Fatalities occurring due to work-related incidents.

What Is the Average Workers’ Comp Settlement in Augusta, GA?

On average, workers’ compensation settlements are generally calculated as 2/3 (66.67%) of your weekly wages while you’re recovering from an injury. Keep in mind that every case is different, and the settlement can vary based on factors such as the severity of injuries, your wages, and other individual considerations.

What Should You Watch Out for When Dealing With the Workers’ Comp Adjuster?

When dealing with a workers’ comp adjuster, be cautious of certain tactics:

• Recorded Statements: Avoid giving statements that could be used against you.
• Speculation: Stick to facts, stay on topic, and don’t guess.
• Medical Releases: Be cautious about releasing more records than necessary.
• Independent Medical Exams: Understand your rights during any medical exams.
• Company Doctors: You have the right to choose your doctor.
• Pre-Existing Conditions: Watch out for attempts to blame your injury on previous conditions.
• Lowball Settlements: Be wary of quick, inadequate settlement offers.
• Communication: Ensure the adjuster answers your questions and returns calls.
• Pressure Tactics: Avoid dealing with threats or high-pressure methods.
• Discouraging Legal Help: Don’t be discouraged from seeking legal advice if needed. Remember, don’t downplay your accident or injuries, and never accept fault without careful consideration.

Can You Work While on Workers’ Compensation in Augusta?

If you’ve been injured at work in Augusta, you’re entitled to workers’ comp benefits, including medical and lost wages, regardless of future employment. However, changing jobs might affect your lost wage benefits, and your former employer might dispute obligations. Consulting a Georgia workers’ compensation attorney is crucial to safeguarding your benefits.

An attorney can ensure uninterrupted entitlements if considering a new job while on workers’ comp. You may continue if you have a second job if it aligns with injury restrictions. However, income adjustments and potential benefit termination necessitate careful consideration.

Will You Have To Undergo an Independent Medical Examination for Workers Compensation?

If you’ve filed a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia, your employer or their insurer may request an Independent Medical Examination (IME). This exam, conducted by a doctor of their choosing, aims to resolve medical disputes between you and the insurer.

While you can’t be forced into the exam, the State Board of Workers’ Compensation can suspend your benefits until you comply. The IME aims to assess the severity and cause of your injuries objectively. However, it’s crucial to note that the insurer compensates the selected doctors, potentially influencing their impartiality. Seeking guidance from an experienced workers’ comp attorney is advisable to navigate the process, protect your rights, and address any discrepancies in the exam report.

Our Worker’s Comp Attorneys Are Ready To Serve Your Case in Augusta, GA

If you are looking for help with your workers’ compensation claim, call George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers today to schedule a no-obligation, free consultation. Our law firm has worked on over 50,000 cases, and we know what it takes to prepare a case to get our clients the compensation they deserve. We do not charge for services offered unless the case is won, and the amount you pay is established as a percentage between you and your lawyer ahead of the case.

Call us today at 706-426-9555 and obtain a free consultation, and we’ll gameplan a strategy to help you navigate your workers’ compensation claim.