If you are suffering from degenerative disc disease due to your job in Georgia, you may be entitled to temporary total disability benefits. A work-related aggravation to degenerative disc disease can take an immense physical, emotional, and financial toll on affected workers. However, filing a successful workers’ compensation claim can be confusing and frustrating.
At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., our compassionate and experienced temporary total disability benefits lawyer for work injury-related aggravation of degenerative disc disease can help you make your way through the workers’ compensation system and fight for the maximum benefits you deserve.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case review.
What Are Temporary Total Disability Benefits in Georgia?
Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits provide financial support to injured employees who cannot perform their job duties due to a work-related injury or illness.
Under Georgia’s workers’ compensation program, benefits typically amount to two-thirds of an employee’s average weekly wage, up to a maximum set by state law. The current maximum is $800 in weekly income benefits.
TTD weekly benefits serve as a crucial lifeline for injured workers, helping them cover essential expenses while they recover. They aim to replace a portion of your lost wages due to your inability to work, ensuring you can focus on your recovery without the added stress of financial hardship.
Can I Get TTD for Degenerative Disc Disease?
You can potentially receive TTD benefits for a work-related aggravation of pre-existing degenerative disc disease in Georgia, but securing compensation is not always straightforward.
Degenerative disc disease is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae break down over time, causing pain and limiting mobility. While it is often associated with aging, certain work activities can accelerate or exacerbate the condition.
To qualify for TTD weekly payments, you will need to prove that your symptoms from degenerative disc disease are work-related or significantly worsened by your job duties. That is where having a skilled degenerative disc disease workers’ comp disability attorney is valuable. We can gather medical evidence and build a robust case to support your claim.
Eligibility for Temporary Total Disability Benefits in Georgia
To be eligible for TTD workers’ compensation benefits in Georgia, you must meet several criteria:
- You are an employee whose employer carries workers’ compensation insurance.
- Your injury or illness must be work-related.
- You must be unable to work for more than seven days due to your condition.
- Your authorized treating physician must have taken you off work completely or placed you on light-duty restrictions that your employer cannot accommodate.
In the case of a work-related aggravation of pre-existing degenerative disc disease, demonstrating these criteria can be challenging. Unlike sudden injuries, degenerative conditions develop gradually, making it harder to establish a clear connection to your work. Our experienced attorneys know how to manage complicated situations like this so that we can advocate effectively for your rights.
How Do I Prove Degenerative Disc Disease Is Work-Related?
While proving symptomatic degenerative disc disease is work-related can be challenging, it is not impossible. Our experienced TTD benefits lawyers in Georgia can help you gather the necessary evidence, such as:
- Medical records documenting the progression of your condition
- Expert testimony linking your job duties to the aggravation of your disc degeneration
- Your job description provided by your employer
- Workplace records showing repetitive motions or heavy lifting requirements
- Statements from co-workers about your job’s physical demands
A Georgia workers’ compensation attorney at our law firm is ready to build a compelling case that shows the direct link between your job and the aggravation of your pre-existing degenerative disc disease. We can work with medical experts and vocational experts to establish how your work caused, accelerated, or exacerbated your condition beyond normal aging. We will also ensure that your treating physician provides clear, detailed work restrictions that accurately reflect your limitations.
How Long Will My TTD Workers’ Compensation Benefits Last?
In Georgia, TTD workers’ compensation benefits can last up to 400 weeks from the date of injury. However, determining the “date of injury” can be problematic for an aggravation of pre-existing degenerative disc disease. It is often considered the date you first sought medical treatment or the date you were unable to work due to the condition.
Your benefits may end earlier if:
- You return to work without restrictions.
- Your physician determines you have reached maximum medical improvement.
- You are offered suitable light-duty work that accommodates your restrictions.
As your TTD workers’ compensation lawyer, we will fight to secure benefits for as long as you are eligible. We will closely monitor your medical progress and challenge any premature termination of benefits.
Challenges in Obtaining Temporary Total Disability for Degenerative Disc Disease
Securing TTD benefits for an aggravation of pre-existing degenerative disc disease often involves overcoming several obstacles, such as:
- Insurance companies may argue your condition is age-related, not work-related.
- Employers might dispute the extent of your disability.
- The gradual onset of symptoms can make it difficult to pinpoint when the injury occurred.
At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., we have comprehensive experience facing these challenges and know how to counter them effectively. Our team will anticipate potential roadblocks and formulate strategies to overcome them as we develop the strongest possible case to secure benefits for you.
Reasons to Hire a Georgia TTD Workers’ Compensation Benefits Lawyer
When you are dealing with degenerative disc disease and fighting for TTD benefits, having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference. Choosing the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., can put you at a distinct advantage because:
- We have extensive experience handling complex workers’ compensation cases.
- Our team will handle all paperwork and communication with insurance companies.
- We will ensure you meet all deadlines and requirements for your claim.
- We have a proven track record of securing fair compensation for our clients.
- We offer personalized attention and regular updates on your case.
Get Help from a Seasoned Georgia Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today
At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., we put people first. We understand that behind every case is a person struggling with pain, uncertainty, and financial stress. When you choose us as your temporary total disability benefits lawyer for a work injury-related aggravation of pre-existing degenerative disc disease, we will fight tirelessly to secure the benefits you need to move forward with your life.
Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our experienced Georgia workers’ compensation attorneys.
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