Did you suffer an injury as a result of a work-related accident? If so, you need to know how long your workers’ compensation benefits will last in Georgia. Due to the complex nature of Georgia’s workers’ comp law, experienced legal representation is essential.
Contact Win Big Law today to speak with an Atlanta workers’ compensation attorney today!
Understanding Workers’ Comp Benefits in Georgia: How Long Can You Claim Benefits?
Under Georgia law (GA Code § 34-9-200), injured workers are entitled to receive benefits for 400 weeks. However, this does mean you will automatically receive benefits for 400 weeks if you suffer a workplace injury. Instead, several factors determine whether you are eligible for benefits along with the amount of benefits you can claim.
Eligibility Requirements for Workers’ Compensation in Georgia
To qualify for workers’ compensation or medical benefits, an injured worker must be an “employee” according to Georgia law (GA Code § 34-9-1). Additionally, you must have suffered an injury during the course of your employment. Finally, your injury must be causally related to your employment. However, a stress-related or other mental health condition must be related to a physical injury.
3 Factors Influencing The Duration of GA Workers’ Comp Benefits
If you were injured in a workplace accident, you will not automatically receive benefits for 400 weeks. Instead, the severity of your injury, its effects, and your ability to return to work will affect the duration of your benefits. No matter your injury, the Georgia workers’ comp lawyers at the Win Big Law will fight hard to maximize your benefits.
1. The Severity of Your Injury
The severity of your work-related injury plays a significant role in determining the duration of your workers’ comp benefits. Injuries which are more severe require additional medical treatment and longer recovery periods which justify a longer period of workers’ compensation benefits. For example, surgery after a workers’ comp injury can justify additional benefits as opposed to physical therapy.
2. How The Injury Impacts Your Ability To Work
The extent to which your work-related injury affects your ability to perform your job duties directly impacts the duration of your workers’ comp benefits. Disabilities or limitations may result in extended benefit periods to support you during your recovery. If you are unable to return to work or only able to return to work at a light-duty capacity, you may be eligible to claim Temporary Total Disability Benefits (GA Code § 34-9-261) or Temporary Partial Disability Benefits (GA Code § 34-9-262)
3. If You Are Disabled After Your Injury
Some workplace accidents cause employees to suffer life-altering injuries. If your work-related injury results in a permanent disability, you may be able to receive benefits for 400 weeks. If you remain disabled after reaching maximum medical improvement, you may be able to claim lifetime benefits or Permanent Partial Disability Benefits (GA Code § 34-9-263).
It’s also possible that your employer may ask you to take a drug test.
What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover in Georgia?
Workers’ compensation benefits in Georgia provide coverage for injuries employees suffer while in the course of their employment. Employees can also file workers’ compensation claims for mental health conditions that are caused by physical injuries. Georgia law (GA Code § 34-9-280) also allows employees to seek workers’ compensation benefits for work related illnesses.
How A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help You Maximize Your Claim
Navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation claims can be challenging. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can provide invaluable assistance in maximizing your claim, ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve. A Georgia workers’ comp lawyer can gather evidence proving your injury is severe and has left you unable to work along with being permanently disabled.
Schedule A Free Consultation with Win Big Law For Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Today
Ready to pursue your workers’ compensation claim in Georgia? You need strong legal representation to fight your employer’s insurance company for the workers’ compensation benefits you need to rebuild your life.
Contact the Win Big Law today to schedule a free consultation with a Georgia workers’ compensation lawyer.
