Workers' Compensation

Fact: There are approximately 2.6 million nonfatal workplace accidents in the U.S. each year.

Work-related injuries can have a profound impact on individuals and their families. When an accident occurs on the job, it can lead to hefty medical bills, lost wages and emotional distress. That’s where workers’ compensation comes in.

Workers’ compensation, also known as workman’s compensation or workers’ comp, is a type of insurance that pays benefits to workers injured on the job or their dependents—regardless of who is at fault. Workers’ compensation insurance pays a portion of lost wages as well as medical expenses, but the specifics vary from state to state. In Georgia, workers are eligible to receive two-thirds of their average weekly wage, but no more than $575 per week, for up to 400 weeks. Lifetime benefits may be available if the injury was catastrophic in nature.

Other workers’ comp benefits may include vocational rehabilitation, temporary and long-term disability, and death benefits. Worker’s comp is required for any company with three or more full-time and part-time workers, and coverage starts the first day on the job.

However, it’s not a foolproof system and there are significant grey areas that may impact the benefits received. If you have been injured on the job, contact our team of experts for the legal advice you need to successfully navigate this complex process. Ready?

What to do if you experience a work-related injury?

If you suffer a workplace injury, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your rights. Here are the steps you should follow:

Report the incident: Notify your supervisor or employer about the accident or injury as soon as possible. The reporting requirements vary depending on the state; in Georgia, you have to report the injury within 30 days or you risk losing your workers’ compensation benefits. Take pictures and note down the details, including the date, time, location and any witnesses present. 

Seek medical attention: Once your employer is notified, they are required to ensure you receive necessary medical attention and to file a claim on your behalf. Keep detailed records of all medical expenses, diagnoses and treatments received.

Consult an experienced workers’ comp attorney: Although your employer is responsible for filing the workers’ comp claim with their insurance carrier, it’s good practice to seek legal guidance to ensure you get the most out of the workers’ compensation process. Whichever law firm you go with, be sure they have many years of experience under their belt with a large number of favorable outcomes to back them.

Keep in mind that if your claim doesn’t go through and you don’t receive your benefits, you have up to one year from the date of your accident to file a Form WC-14 with State Board of Workers’ Compensation. You may also request a hearing before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation. The trial will then be decided by an Administrative Law Judge. A hearing will usually take place within 60 days of when the judge receives the Form WC-14.

Man measuring wood in workshop.

Do I need a personal injury lawyer?

While you can file a workers’ compensation claim on your own, having an experienced attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

For example, workers’ compensation doesn’t cover personal injuries or punitive damages, which you may be entitled to if the defendant’s behavior is found to be especially harmful. In certain cases, you may even be able to take the manufacturer to court.

We have the skills and experience to negotiate with insurance companies and employers to secure the best possible outcome for you. If your claim is denied or disputed, our injury attorneys are prepared to take your case to court. We will provide strong representation throughout the appeals or litigation process, ensuring your voice is heard loud and clear.

Litner + Deganian candid photo of employee.

Here’s a look at our process

First and foremost, we offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case, discuss your rights and answer any questions you may have. This consultation allows us to understand the details of your situation and determine the best course of action.

Then our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses and reviewing medical records to build a strong case on your behalf. We’ll negotiate with insurance companies and employers to seek a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages and any other damages you have suffered. If a fair settlement can’t be reached, our skilled litigators will take your case straight to court; we’ll provide aggressive representation and fight for your rights before a judge or jury.

What makes our law firm stand out?

Our attorneys specialize in workers’ compensation law and have extensive knowledge of the complex regulations and legal requirements involved. Rest assured that your voice will be heard, your story will be told and your rights will be fiercely defended. We take pride in our:

Client-centered approach: Your well-being is our priority, so we’ll work day and night to protect your legal rights. We provide personalized attention, keeping you informed at every stage of the legal process and ensuring you feel supported throughout your entire workers’ compensation case.

Experience and expertise: Our attorneys have extensive experience in both workers’ compensation law and the insurance industry, so we have a deep understanding of the complexities of the system and are able to consistently deliver favorable results for our clients.

Compassion and empathy: We genuinely care about our clients and the challenges they face. We approach each case as if it were our only one, treating you with the respect and understanding you deserve.

We don’t win until you do

Our law firm has a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes in workers’ compensation cases, helping injured workers regain financial stability to they can move forward with their lives. 

If you or a loved one has suffered a work injury, don’t wait to seek the legal justice you deserve. Call today for a free consultation. We’d be honored to put our experience and dedication to work for you, fighting for the medical care, compensation and support you need during this challenging time. Bonus: We don’t get paid until you do.

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