Buchanan Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Your recovery should be your primary focus after a workplace injury in Georgia. Sadly, injured workers in Georgia often have to worry about their finances and future instead of concentrating on their medical treatment. The Buchanan workers’ compensation lawyers of Sherrod & Bernard, P.C., can alleviate this worry by helping you pursue the benefits you need.

With nearly 80 years of combined legal experience and a proven track record, our attorneys have what it takes to protect your rights. We’ve seen how injured workers in Buchanan frequently have trouble claiming the benefits they qualify for and will fight fiercely for fair compensation. Call us or complete our online form today for a free case evaluation.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a form of employer-provided insurance. It provides wage replacement and medical benefits to employees who suffer injuries or become ill as a direct result of their job. This system is designed to protect workers, ensuring they have the support they need without having to prove their employer acted negligently. In return, employees generally cannot sue their employers for workplace injuries or illnesses. The State Board of Workers’ Compensation oversees workers’ comp claims in Georgia.

What Are Some Common Workplace Injuries?

Accidents that occur in workplaces in Georgia frequently cause severe injuries, including:

What Are Some Possible Causes of Workplace Injuries?

One reason workplace injuries are so common in Georgia is that there are many ways accidents can happen on the job. Some of the most common causes of workplace injuries in Georgia include:

• Equipment failure – Faulty or improperly maintained machinery can malfunction, leading to severe injuries.
• Slips and falls – Wet floors, cluttered workspaces, or improper safety measures can cause workers to slip and fall.
• Overexertion – Excessive physical effort can lead to overuse injuries.
• Falling objects – Unsecured items can fall from heights, causing head injuries or other harm.
• Exposure to toxic substances – Exposure to hazardous chemicals or materials can result in illness or injury.
• Inadequate training – Without proper instruction, workers may be unable to operate equipment safely or understand safety procedures.
• Vehicle accidents – Accidents involving vehicles, particularly in industries like transportation or construction, can lead to severe injuries.
• Repetitive motion – Constant, repetitive movements can cause strains and sprains over time.
• Fire and explosions – Accidents involving flammable materials or faulty electrical systems can lead to fires or explosions.
• Violence at work – Assaults or other violent acts by co-workers or clients can result in physical harm.

What Should I Do If I Am Hurt On the Job?

Taking the proper steps after an on-the-job injury is essential to give yourself the best chance of recovering the workers’ compensation benefits you need. Here’s what you should do after a workplace injury in Buchanan:

• Seek immediate medical attention – It’s critical to seek medical care as soon as possible, even if the injury seems minor.
• Report the injury – Notify your employer about the injury promptly, in writing, if possible. Keep a copy of the report for your records.
• Document everything – Make a detailed record of the incident and the injury, including dates, times, locations, and any potential witnesses. Also, save all medical documents and receipts related to your injury.
• Follow the doctor’s orders – If you don’t follow your doctor’s orders, your employer could use that as evidence that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim.
• Consult a lawyer – It’s vital to obtain workers’ compensation benefits as soon as possible after an injury to protect your financial future. A workers’ comp attorney can handle the legal work involved in your case while you focus on healing.

How Soon Must I Notify My Employer of My Injury?

The State Board of Workers’ Compensation recommends you report an injury to your employer immediately. However, you must notify your employer within 30 days. If you wait any longer, you could lose your workers’ comp benefits.

What Benefits Are Covered by Georgia Workers’ Compensation?

In Georgia, workers’ compensation provides the following benefits:

• Medical Expenses – All necessary and reasonable medical treatment related to the injury, including hospital stays, surgeries, prescriptions, and rehabilitation services, are covered.
• Temporary Total Disability Benefits – If you cannot work for more than seven days due to your injury, you may receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage up to a predetermined maximum amount.
• Temporary Partial Disability Benefits – If you can return to work but earn less due to your injury, you may be entitled to two-thirds of the difference between your pre- and post-injury average weekly wage.
• Permanent Partial Disability Benefits – If your injury results in permanent impairment or loss of use of particular body parts, you may receive benefits based on the type of injury and your average weekly wage.
• Death Benefits – In the unfortunate event of a worker’s death, the family may receive burial expenses and weekly income benefits.

Does Georgia Have a Time Limit for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

The State Board of Workers’ Compensation says you must file a workers’ comp claim within one year of your injury to preserve your right to compensation. However, we strongly advise you to speak with an attorney and file your claim as soon as possible.

How Much Will I Receive from Workers’ Comp?

Workers’ comp covers all reasonable medical treatments related to your injury until you heal or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI). MMI is the point at which further treatments will not meaningfully impact your injury. Your wage-replacement benefits are set at two-thirds of your average weekly wage before your injury, up to a limit set by state law.

What Should I Do If My Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied?

If your employer denies your workers’ comp claim, talk to a lawyer immediately. They can help you appeal your employer’s decision and demand the benefits you’re entitled to.

Contact a Buchanan, GA Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Workers’ compensation is one of the most complex areas of Georgia law. There are many legal hurdles that could trip you up. Hiring a knowledgeable workers’ comp lawyer from Sherrod & Bernard, P.C., is your best option to protect your rights and seek the benefits you deserve. Call us or contact us online today for a free case evaluation.