When you get injured on the job, you must file a workers’ compensation claim to pay for medical expenses and recover lost wages. While you typically have one year to file a claim in Georgia, you should report your injury to your employer within a month. Here, learn what you need to know about filing to obtain the coverage you deserve.

What’s Involved in Filing A Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Compensation Claim Requirements

To file a workers’ comp claim, you need to be an employee at a company that offers such coverage. You must have a work-related illness or injury, such as a musculoskeletal disorder, puncture, fracture, or burn to be eligible. Coverage also depends on whether you alert your company officials and file with the state in time. If you get injured at work in Georgia, for example, you must inform your supervisor within 30 days of the injury and make an official claim within one year.

Most businesses are required to have workers’ compensation, with the exception of small farms. Workers in different fields may also be ineligible for injury compensation, including housekeepers, nannies, seasonal employees, and loaned or leased employees. Undocumented workers are also ineligible.

What Workers’ Comp Does & Doesn’t Cover

Workers’ compensation covers a wide variety of injuries, including muscle sprains and strains, tears, cuts, punctures, lacerations, broken bones, burns, rotator cuff disorders, back trauma, and conditions or illnesses linked to exposure to mold, asbestos, and toxic chemicals. However, you will not receive compensation for self-inflicted injuries, those caused by roughhousing with other employees, or injuries related to alcohol and drug use. Injuries sustained on your commute to work also do not apply, nor does stress or psychological problems.

How to File

Your employer will provide paperwork to fill out after you inform them about your injury, including paperwork for the company’s insurance provider and the state workers’ comp board. You will also receive information about your rights and returning to the workforce. The employer will file the claim, which their insurance company can approve or deny. If the claim is approved, you can accept payment or ask for a lump-sum or structured settlement if the current amount is too low. If the claim is denied, you can request an appeal.

Working with a personal injury lawyer will streamline the filing and negotiating processes. An experienced attorney will help you if your claim gets denied, you do not receive prompt payment, or if the settlement doesn’t cover your medical costs. Lawyers also provide legal representation in the event of unfair treatment by your employer after your claim is filed, such as by cutting your hours or retracting your recent promotion. 

If you have been injured at work, ensure a smooth workers’ compensation process by contacting Williams and Associates PC. The personal injury law firm in Decatur, GA, has served the region since 1990, providing dedicated counsel to help you recover lost wages and receive medical coverage. Call (678) 695-3133 today to schedule a consultation or visit the attorneys online for more practice area information.