Almost every worker who gets hurt on the job in Woodstock should be covered by workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ compensation was set up to help injured workers with medical costs, missed work time, and more. However, actually receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to is easier said than done. Many injured workers turn to a good Woodstock workers’ compensation lawyer for help with their case.
Over the past 20 plus years, our experienced and compassionate lawyers at John Foy & Associates have helped many, many workers receive the benefits they need after a workplace injury. Let us help you too. We’ll start with a FREE consultation, and there is no risk to you. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started with your FREE consultation.
Woodstock Laws on Workers’ Compensation Coverage
Almost all employers in Woodstock are legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Businesses who regularly employ three or more individuals must purchase a workers’ compensation policy for their workers. When you file a claim after an injury, it’s the insurance company that actually pays for your costs.
If you experience issues with the insurance company or your employer tells you there is no workers’ compensation, contact a Woodstock workers’ compensation lawyer immediately. It’s more common than you would think for employers to never purchase workers’ compensation even if they were supposed to carry it. You have the right to take legal action against an employer in this situation.
For your workers’ compensation benefits to apply, you must also:
- Have been injured at work or while performing duties for your job
- Report your injury to a manager or supervisor within 30 days of your accident (otherwise, you may lose any chance at receiving benefits) and
- File your workers’ compensation claim within one year of your accident
As you might have guessed from above, prompt action is vital after a work injury. You will need to begin working on your case as soon as possible. If you have any doubt about receiving the benefits you deserve, it’s best to contact a workers’ compensation lawyer right away.
Fault does Not Matter
Workers’ compensation claims are also different from regular personal injury claims in one big way: they do not consider fault. There is no need to prove someone caused or did not cause your injuries or your accident. You also cannot sue your employer.
You will still need to report your accident and file a claim if you want to receive your benefits, however.
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How to Know What Injuries Are Covered By Workers’ Compensation
Typically, any injury that happens at work is covered. It does not even have to be an injury that you sustained while performing your job duties. If it happened at work, it should be covered. There are a few small exceptions to this, such as injuries that occurred while using drugs or alcohol or committing a crime.
Off-Site Injuries Are Sometimes Covered
There are some gray areas. In some situations, you might be able to receive benefits even if you were not at your worksite. For example, you might still be covered if you were injured while:
- Traveling for work
- Attending a work meeting or event
- Operating or riding in a work vehicle on-the-job
- Working offsite somewhere else
- Running an errand for your employer
You usually cannot claim injuries that happened while off-the-clock and traveling to or from work. You would not yet be considered at work and therefore likely not eligible for benefits.
If you’re unsure whether your injuries are covered, a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you figure out what is covered.
You’ll Have to Choose from a List of Doctors
Under most workers’ compensation policies in Woodstock, your employer will provide you with a list of at least six doctors to choose from for your treatment (as required under Georgia Code section 34-9-201). The workers’ compensation insurance company typically picks these providers. If you see a physician outside of this network, you might not be eligible for reimbursement of your medical expenses.
Alternatively, your employer may also post the name of a Workers’ Compensation Managed Care Organization (WC/MCO) that has been certified by the State Board of Workers’ Compensation (SBWC) your employer has contracted with to provide medical services.
Sometimes, a physician is just not the best choice for your needs and situation. You will have the option to change between approved physicians one time without asking for permission from your employer.
What a Lawyer does for Your Woodstock Workers’ Compensation Claim
In most cases, we recommend working with an experienced lawyer on your workers’ compensation claim. The process is often complex, and time is limited, so the expertise of a lawyer who specializes in workers’ compensation cases is invaluable. You will not have to doubt whether or not your rights are protected as you seek the benefits you need to recover.
A lawyer can remove stress from the workers’ compensation claims process. You can focus on getting better and being with family. A lawyer can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf and make sure you are treated fairly. They can even help you with the process of choosing the best doctor from your options.
Thankfully, most workers’ compensation lawyers also don’t take a fee unless they win you money. At John Foy & Associates, this is how we operate—and the consultation is always FREE. Call (404) 400-4000 to schedule your free consultation now.
Talk to a Workers Compensation Lawyer in Woodstock for Free
Don’t miss out on your chance at full benefits through workers’ compensation after a work injury. John Foy & Associates can help you with every step of the process, as we have been for over 20 years. If you experience issues with the insurance company—or even your employer—we will be your biggest advocate in your case.
Contact us today for a FREE consultation to discuss your situation and how we can assist you. You won’t pay a thing unless we win your case. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started with your FREE consultation.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
