From the very first day that you start work in Villa Rica, you are probably covered by workers’ compensation. Under a workers’ compensation policy, you are entitled to medical care and wage benefits if you become injured at work. However, sometimes getting the benefits you deserve is easier said than done. If you need help with your claim, talk to a workers’ compensation lawyer in Villa Rica very soon.
John Foy & Associates can help you navigate this often-confusing system. Insurance companies know what the rules are, and they can use them against you in an effort to pay less on your claim. Let us fight for your rights—starting with a FREE consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or reach out online to get started with your FREE consultation today.
What You Should Know About Workers’ Compensation in Villa Rica
Workers’ compensation, or workers’ compensation for short, is a type of insurance that provides benefits if you get injured on the job. Through workers’ compensation, the benefits you may be entitled to include:
- Medical treatment
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy
- Travel to and from medical appointments
- Temporary total disability benefits
- Vocational rehabilitation
If you are unable to work for more than seven days, you are eligible for weekly wage benefits at two-thirds of your weekly income—up to a cap of $575 per week. If you are able to return to work but forced to take on a less-demanding job, you may be compensated for the difference.
Workers’ compensation payments are also tax-exempt, so what you take home might not change much compared to your previous income after taxes.
Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to receive benefits for up to 400 weeks. For many injured workers, this is income you absolutely need to support yourself and your family as you recover.
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How to Know If You’re Eligible for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
To be eligible for workers’ compensation in Villa Rica, you must have a physical injury that happened at work or while “on-the-job.” You may be able to receive benefits for emotional injuries, too, but they must result from a physical injury. Illnesses that result from working conditions apply for workers’ compensation benefits, too.
Employers in Georgia with three or more employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance. That means most workers are covered by one of these policies. If your employer says they don’t carry workers’ compensation but you think they should have it, contact a Villa Rica workers’ compensation lawyer right away.
Common Injuries that Occur at Work Sites in Villa Rica
Workers’ compensation benefits can apply to any type of work injury at any type of job. Although jobs in construction and other risky professions are more likely to lead to injury, desk and office jobs count too.
Here are some of the most common workplace injuries in Villa Rica:
- Hearing loss
- Neck or back injuries
- Fractures
- Burns
- Joint pain
- Slip and fall injuries
- Amputations
- Burns
- Travel-related accident injuries
- Machinery-related accident injuries
No matter what type of injury you suffered, you should be covered by workers’ compensation in most situations.
Three Steps You Must Take for Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
Although workers’ compensation is automatically your right after a work injury, you will need to take action and pursue benefits. Here are some things you should do as soon as possible after your injury.
1. Tell Your Employer
You must report your work injury to your employer within 30 days of your work injury. Tell a supervisor or manager what happened. Ensure they clearly understand that you were hurt at work and that they make a report.
2. Contact a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Villa Rica
Although you do not need to have a workers’ compensation lawyer to seek benefits, we highly recommend it. Employers cannot legally blame you for an accident through workers’ compensation, but you are still working with an insurance company. Insurance companies will look for ways to reduce what they pay on your claim. A lawyer can make sure the insurer doesn’t take advantage of you.
Most workers’ compensation lawyers in Villa Rica (like John Foy & Associates) do not take a fee unless they win your benefits. So, there’s no risk in reaching out and discussing your options. To schedule a FREE consultation with an experienced and compassionate workers’ compensation lawyer today, call (404) 400-4000.
3. File a Claim
You will need to complete a Form WC-14 and file it with the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation (SBWC). Then, you’ll need to send a copy to your employer and the insurance carrier for your employer’s workers’ compensation policy. Again, it’s best to do this as soon as possible so you don’t miss out on any chance of benefits.
You Have One Year to File—don’t Wait
After a work accident, you have one year from the date to file a workers’ compensation claim. Also, remember that you must report your accident within 30 days. This time goes fast.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed when seeking workers’ compensation benefits, so don’t be afraid to reach out to an experienced and trusted lawyer for help. Lawyers spend a lot of time, money, and resources staying up-to-date with local laws for a reason. They know what it takes to have a successful claim—and they’re always on your side.
Talk to a Workers Compensation Lawyer in Villa Rica, GA for Free
Without legal help, navigating a workers’ compensation claim is stressful and complicated. Don’t go it alone if you feel lost and confused. Let John Foy & Associates handle the details so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
Nine out of ten workers are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. It is your legal right, and don’t let your employer or their insurance company make you feel differently. Speak with a legal professional who can fight for you and who has your best interests at heart.
It is risk-free to work with us because we don’t take a fee unless we win benefits for you. Plus, the consultation is always FREE. To get started with your FREE consultation today, call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online now.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
