Why Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Georgia?
Workers’ compensation claims may seem as simple as going to the doctor and filling out some forms. Unfortunately, these benefits don’t come as easily as many workers expect. At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., we have a complete understanding of Georgia’s complex workers’ compensation laws. Our trusted team knows all the challenges and obstacles involved with large insurance companies. We know the tactics insurers use to undervalue claims, force people back to work before they’re ready, and even deny valid claims.
Our trusted Georgia workers’ compensation attorneys have the experience and resources to fight for the full and fair benefits you deserve. We have been fighting for workers in Albany and throughout Southwest Georgia for more than a decade. If you’re ready to get legal advice about your work injury claim, please give us a call to learn how we can help.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Coverage in Georgia
Workers’ compensation should cover your medical expenses and a portion of your wages if you are missing work due to a job-related injury. Depending on the circumstances of your case, workers’ compensation could cover:
- Medical treatment, including surgeries, physical and occupational therapy, chiropractor visits, in-home nursing care, and mental health treatment for conditions related to your injury
- Travel expenses, such as mileage reimbursement and parking fees related to your treatment
- Weekly wage loss in the form of temporary total disability or temporary partial disability benefits, which may cover two-thirds of your average weekly wage (up to a certain amount)
- Permanent disability benefits, which may be paid in a lump-sum settlement
- Vocational and rehabilitative assistance, such as help with job searches, training, and education
- Death benefits for a surviving spouse or children
No matter the details of your case, you can expect that the insurance company will work tirelessly to minimize the value of your claim. At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., we fight for the maximum amount you need to recover.
Georgia Workers’ Compensation Claim Filing Deadline Explained
There are a few important time limits you should be aware of after suffering an injury on the job. The State Board of Workers’ Compensation outlines:
- You have 30 days to report your injury to your employer. You should do this as soon as possible.
- You have one year from the date of your accident to file a claim with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.
- If you receive remedial treatment for your injury from your employer, you have one year from the date of treatment to file a workers’ comp claim.
- If you receive weekly income benefits after a workplace injury, you have two years from the date of your last weekly income benefits payment to file a claim.
- If you are suffering from an occupational disease or illness, you have one year from the date of diagnosis, or from the date you should have known your illness was work-related, to file a claim.
As you can see, the workers’ compensation claim timeline can be tricky. If you miss a deadline, you can lose your right to the compensation you need. This is why you should speak with a knowledgeable Albany workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible.