Understanding how workers’ compensation settlements in Georgia are calculated can be daunting, especially when you’re already dealing with the physical and financial stress of a work-related injury.
This article breaks down what influences the settlement for your workers’ compensation claim, such as injury severity, medical expenses, and lost wages, while also covering the types of benefits available, like Temporary Total Disability (TTD) and Permanent Partial Disability (PPD). By exploring the entire settlement process in detail, you’ll see why having seasoned legal support is essential to defend your rights in your workers’ compensation case.
If you’ve suffered a workplace injury and need legal guidance, the Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyers at Win Big Law are trusted by Georgia residents to secure the compensation you deserve. Our Georgia workers’ comp attorneys have recovered over $1.2 million in settlements for clients, helping people like you get back on their feet through successful workers’ compensation claims.
Learn more about how Georgia workers’ compensation settlements are calculated and get the workers’ comp lawyer you need.
Factors Influencing Workers’ Compensation Settlements in Georgia
Workers’ compensation settlements in Georgia are influenced by the type and severity of your injury, the medical expenses you’ve incurred, and the wages you’ve lost during your recovery. Each of these factors contributes to determining a fair settlement amount.
Type & Severity of Injury
The type and severity of your workers’ comp injury help calculate your total settlement. For example, a minor sprain might result in a lower payout compared to a severe spinal injury that requires surgery and long-term rehabilitation. Injuries that cause permanent disability or limit your ability to work in the future will generally lead to higher compensation because of the lasting impact on your life.
Medical Expenses
The workers’ compensation settlement amount also reflects the total medical expenses you’ve incurred due to the injury. This includes immediate treatments like emergency room visits and surgeries, as well as ongoing costs such as physical therapy, prescription medications, and any necessary future medical care. For instance, if you require multiple surgeries or extended rehabilitation, these costs will be factored into a larger settlement.
Lost Wages
Lost wages are compensated based on the duration of time you’ve been unable to work, as well as your average weekly earnings before the injury. If your workplace injury leads to an extended absence or reduces your ability to earn the same income, the settlement will account for these lost earnings. For example, if you were earning $1,000 per week and missed six months of work, the lost wages portion of your settlement would be calculated to cover that income loss.
Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits
In Georgia, workers’ compensation provides different types of benefits depending on the nature and extent of the injury. Temporary Total Disability (TTD) and Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) are two primary benefits available to injured workers in the Peach State. These benefits aim to replace lost income and support the injured worker during recovery or adjustment to a new level of function.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits are for workers who are completely unable to work temporarily due to their injury. In Georgia, if your injury prevents you from returning to work for more than seven days, you are entitled to receive TTD benefits.
These benefits provide two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by Georgia state law, which is periodically adjusted. TTD benefits continue until you are able to return to work or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI), meaning your condition is not expected to improve further with treatment.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits apply when a worker sustains a permanent injury that partially impairs their ability to work. In Georgia, after reaching maximum medical improvement, a doctor will assign an impairment rating based on the extent of your permanent injury. This rating determines the duration and amount of PPD benefits you will receive.
PPD benefits are also calculated as two-thirds of your average weekly wage, but the duration varies depending on the severity of the impairment and which part of the body is affected. For example, the loss of a finger might result in a shorter benefit period than the loss of a limb.
Calculating Workers’ Compensation Settlements
Calculating workers’ compensation settlements in Georgia involves evaluating medical expenses, lost wages, and the extent of your disability. A fair workers’ comp settlement amount is based on your average weekly wage and considers both past and future costs associated with your injury.
Factors such as your recovery time, need for future medical treatment, and any permanent impairment also play a role. Ultimately, the goal with workers’ compensation cases is to provide a fair payment that addresses the long-term impact of your injury on your ability to work and your overall quality of life.
Why Pursue A Workers’ Compensation Settlement?
Pursuing a workers’ compensation settlement can provide financial stability during a difficult time, ensuring you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and any permanent injuries. Settlements offer a way to resolve your claim without the uncertainty of a lengthy legal battle. They can also provide a lump-sum payment to help you manage future expenses, offering peace of mind as you recover and adjust to any changes in your ability to work.
How Are Workers’ Compensation Settlements Paid?
Workers’ compensation settlements in Georgia are typically paid as a lump-sum amount, allowing you to receive the full compensation at once. This payment method helps you cover immediate and future medical expenses, as well as replace lost income. In some cases, settlements may be structured as periodic payments over time, depending on the agreement reached between you and the insurance company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average workers’ comp settlement in Georgia?
For those wondering how much workers’ compensation pays in Georgia, the average settlement, including a liability settlement, varies widely depending on the severity of the injury but typically ranges from $15,000 to $75,000. Severe cases with long-term impacts can result in higher settlements.
How long does it take to settle a workers’ comp case in Georgia?
The time it takes to settle a workers’ comp case in Georgia can be a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case and whether any disputes arise during the process. Factors like the severity of the injury, negotiations over medical expenses, and if the employer requests a drug test can also influence the timeline. If a workers’ comp drug test in Georgia is requested and issues arise from the results, it could further delay the settlement process.
Does workers’ comp pay for pain and suffering in Georgia?
No, workers’ compensation in Georgia does not cover pain and suffering. The benefits are limited to medical expenses, lost wages, and disability compensation.
Does surgery increase workers’ comp settlements?
Yes, surgery can increase a workers’ comp settlement in Georgia. Getting surgery often indicates a more severe injury, which leads to higher medical expenses and longer recovery times. Both of these are factored into the amount of workers comp benefits you get.
Schedule A Free Consultation with Win Big Law Firm Today!
Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in securing the workers’ compensation settlement you deserve. The workers’ comp lawyers at Win Big Law are dedicated to fighting for Georgia workers, ensuring that you receive the full benefits owed to you. With their deep understanding of Georgia’s workers’ compensation laws and a track record of recovering millions in settlements, you can trust our law firm to handle your workers’ comp case with the commitment it requires.
Contact us at Win Big Law today and let our workers’ comp attorneys help you get the most our of your claim.