Suffering an injury while working is always stressful, and knowing which actions to take first is often confusing. State laws require all businesses and organizations that employ three or more people, whether full-time or part-time, to provide workers compensation benefits for work-related injuries.
You may also be eligible to file a lawsuit when the accident happened because of a third-party individual or company. A knowledgeable Lithia Springs work injury lawyer could provide you with more information and help file a claim to collect benefits. Call our personal injury attorneys today to discuss your case.
Examples of Workplace Accidents
While those working for construction companies or in a warehouse suffer injuries more commonly, accidents can occur in any organization. Some examples of workplace accidents include:
- Vehicle collisions
- Repetitive motion injuries
- Injuries from falling objects
- Dangerous and defective product accidents
- Exposure to toxic chemicals and other substances
- Construction site accidents, such as crushing injuries from heavy equipment, electric shock, or falls from heights
Workplace accidents can leave you with catastrophic injuries, leading to permanent disabilities and life-changing consequences. A work injury attorney in Lithia Springs could protect a claimant’s interests while guiding them through the system and ensuring they collect the payment the laws entitle you to receive.
Workers’ Compensation Rights and Responsibilities
The most effective way to protect yourself is to know your rights and responsibilities and complete each step as required. Missing a deadline or an error in the information can result in delays or a denial of benefits. According to the instructions of the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation, you are eligible to collect benefits after completing three months with your employer.
The necessary steps to submit a claim and collect benefits successfully include:
- Report the accident and injury to your employer within 30 days
- Get medical care from an approved doctor provided to you by your employer
- Collect all documents related to the event, such as medical expenses, physician instructions, and proof of wages
- Complete the claim notice, called the Form WC-14 Notice of Claim, and submit it to the board
While there is no requirement for working with a legal professional, a Lithia Springs work injury attorney could guide you through the procedure to ensure compliance with the regulations and avoid unnecessary delays or denials.
Benefits Available
Those who suffer injuries while carrying out their work duties are eligible to collect medical benefits, supplemental income, and rehabilitation services. If the accident is fatal, the family of the deceased is eligible to collect death benefits. There is also the opportunity to settle a claim after a specified time by taking a lump sum payment to close the case.
Third-Party Lawsuits
Carrying workers’ compensation benefits protects organizations from civil lawsuits. When accidents occur because of a third party, you may have options for filing a suit. That means you could file a claim for benefits with your employer and take legal action against a third party, such as an equipment manufacturer when a defect caused the accident.
Call a Skilled Work Injury Attorney in Lithia Springs for Help With Your Case
State laws could entitle you to benefits if you suffered injuries while performing your duties. That includes the total cost of medical care related to the accident, supplemental income, and more.
While hiring an experienced Lithia Springs work injury lawyer is not required, it could save you from unnecessary stress and avoidable mistakes causing long delays or denials because of a simple error. Call today to schedule a consultation to review your case.