Have you suffered a neck injury on the job in Albany, Georgia? If so, you could be entitled to workers’ compensation, which covers the cost of your medical care, offsets a portion of your lost wages, and provides other important protections. Here’s what you need to know about accessing these vital benefits and how an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can assist in the process.
Report Your Neck Injury
The first step in securing workers’ compensation for your neck injury is immediately reporting the injury to your employer. In Georgia, you must report your work injury to your employer within 30 days to qualify for workers’ compensation. However, it’s best to report the injury as soon as possible to avoid disputes about when or where it occurred.
Delaying your injury report could have several negative consequences. The insurance company might deny your claim by arguing the neck injury isn’t work-related. For instance, if you wait two weeks to report neck pain, the insurer could suggest that the injury happened outside of work or isn’t as serious as you claim it is.
Consult a Georgia Workers’ Compensation Attorney
The best way to protect your rights after a workplace neck injury is to consult an experienced Georgia workers’ compensation attorney. A lawyer can ensure you don’t say anything that could jeopardize your case and walk you through applying for benefits and securing the documentation needed for a strong claim.
Your workers’ compensation attorney is your ally and advocate. They can provide sound legal advice, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you during appeals if your claim gets denied.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
After reporting your injury and speaking to an attorney, your next step is to ensure your employer files your claim. In Georgia, your employer submits your claim to their worker’s compensation insurance company. You can also initiate the process by filing a WC-14 Form.
Unfortunately, you cannot select any doctor you wish for a work injury. You must see a provider from your employer’s approved physician list. The medical evaluations performed by this doctor will be a crucial part of your claim, as they will detail the extent of your neck injury and its impact on your ability to work.
Common Challenges in Getting Workers’ Comp for Neck Injuries
One of the most common challenges faced by workers with neck injuries is proving that their condition is job-related. The insurance company will try to assert that the neck injury isn’t real, isn’t related to your work, or is the result of a pre-existing condition.
What To Do if Your Work Injury Claim is Denied
If the insurance company denies your claim, you can appeal the decision. Your workers’ compensation attorney can assist with filing your appeal with the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation and represent you during hearings and negotiations.
Contact an Albany, GA Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Now
If you suffered a neck injury on the job in Albany, the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., can explain your right to benefits in a free consultation. Call or contact us online for a free case review.
Site by