Every workplace presents employees with unique dangers and hazards. Unfortunately, employees are often injured while on-the-job. These injuries may require extensive medical attention and could keep an employee out of work for an extended period of time.
Fortunately, state law requires almost every employer with at least three or more workers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. These policies provide medical care to an injured employee as well as wage reimbursement for time missed on the job. However, insurance companies may deny benefits. Employees must take care to follow the proper procedures to protect their legal rights.
An Alpharetta workers’ compensation lawyer could work to help injured workers to obtain the benefits and compensation that they need. Seek help from a seasoned personal injury attorney to learn about what may be possible in your case.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Benefits
A core concept in employment law is that every employee should have the right to earn a living free from the fear of injury or illness. However, some occupations are inherently dangerous, such as the manufacturing or construction industries. These occupations could cause severe injuries and harm.
Workers’ compensation benefits provide payments for any injuries that are the result of doing one’s job. Most employers with at least three workers in the state must acquire some form of workers’ compensation insurance. These plans can provide a variety of benefits that include:
- Medical care for as long as the injury or illness lasts
- Temporary incomer repayment for as long as the injury keeps the employee out of work
- Payments for any permanent injury or loss of work ability
Employees can begin a claim by notifying their employer of the incident. Under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated §34-9-80, employees must provide this notice no more than 30 days from the date of injury. Additionally, the law requires a worker to notify the State Board of Workers’ Compensation about the incident using form WC-14.
A dedicated Alpharetta workers’ compensation lawyer could ensure that all claims and supporting documentation are filed promptly and correctly.
Options for Pursuing Compensation Following a Denial
Unfortunately, denials or inadequate workers’ compensation benefits packages are common. The insurance company may not provide benefits that cover the full value of an injured worker’s damages.
All employees have the right to ask the State Board of Workers’ Compensation to adjudicate the dispute. When an employee files an appeal, the Board will assign a judge and a hearing date. However, many claims do not get to this point.
The Board may require the employee and insurance company to attend mediation sessions. This is an attempt to settle the claim without forcing the courts to get involved. A well-practiced workers’ compensation lawyer could help to represent the interests of workers during these hearings.
If the mediation sessions fail, a formal trial will take place. These sessions are in court before a judge. Both sides will have the opportunity to present evidence concerning the extent of an injury and how it was connected to the job.
Finally, an employee who does not receive the desired result after the trial retains a final right of appeal. The Appellate Division of the Board can reconsider a judge’s decision concerning the application of the law.
Speak to an Alpharetta Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
Every worker who suffers an injury while doing their job has the right to demand workers’ compensation benefits. These can include the costs of all necessary medical care, the payment of wage reimbursement, and lump-sum settlements for any permanent disability.
Working with an Alpharetta workers’ compensation lawyer could help to increase your chances of successfully recovering the benefits you need. You do not need to handle your case alone. Let an experienced attorney help. Call today to schedule a consultation.