Hurting your back at work can turn your life upside-down. Even a seemingly mild strain can substantially impact your ability to function.
If you are coping with a workplace back injury, an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Georgia can help you apply for benefits to offset your financial burdens during your recovery.
What Steps Should I Take After I Hurt My Back at Work?
Swift action will help protect your rights to workers’ compensation for a back injury.
- Report the injury to your employer immediately. Under Georgia workers’ compensation law, waiting more than 30 days to notify your employer may result in a loss of benefits.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible. The designated physician from your employer’s panel or a WC/MCO representative can guide you through this process. However, it’s best to seek an attorney’s advice before accepting the services of a panel or MCO physician. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer will know the various medical providers and which ones may provide you with the best care.
- Document everything. If possible, gather medical reports, accident scene photos, and witness statements from co-workers. Keep all correspondence with your employer, their workers’ compensation insurer, and all forms related to your claim.
- Consult a Georgia workers’ compensation attorney. A lawyer can help build and submit a strong work injury claim on your behalf.
Common Work-Related Back Injuries and Their Causes
Back pain and injuries are common workplace injuries and range in severity. These injuries often arise from activities like:
- Heavy lifting
- Repeated bending or twisting
- Falls
- Machinery accidents
- Lack of activity or ergonomic support
Regardless of the severity of the injury, consulting a Georgia legal professional with experience in back injury cases is crucial to maximizing your workers’ compensation benefits.
How to Determine if You Are Eligible for Workers’ Compensation
Generally, businesses in Georgia with three or more employees must provide workers’ compensation insurance for their workers. Workers’ compensation coverage applies from your first day on the job. You are typically eligible for workers’ compensation if you suffer a back injury while performing work-related tasks. To verify your employer’s coverage, visit the State Board of Workers’ Compensation website.
Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ compensation benefits in Georgia can cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and income benefits if the injury prevents you from working. If your injury results in permanent disability, you may be eligible for benefits based on the type and extent of your disability. If your injury forces you to accept a lower-paying job, you could be eligible for reduced benefits for up to 350 weeks from the date of injury. Speak to a qualified work injury attorney to determine what compensation you may be eligible to claim.
Contact the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., Today
Securing workers’ compensation benefits can be a complex process. It requires accurate paperwork, adherence to strict deadlines, and effective negotiations with the insurance company. Working with a proven workers’ compensation lawyer can make all the difference when filing a claim in Georgia.
The experienced legal team at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., puts people first. You deserve the money you need to get back on your feet again. Let us help you fight for it. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
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