Did you suffer a work injury in Savannah? One of our expert workers’ compensation lawyers can help you get workers’ compensation benefits. Contact us today for a free consultation about your workplace injuries.
At the Spiva Law Group, P.C., a Savannah workers’ compensation lawyer aggressively fights for your worker’s compensation benefits.
Overview of Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides financial and medical benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. The primary purpose of workers’ compensation is to ensure that injured workers receive prompt and fair compensation without the need to engage in lengthy legal battles. This system covers a wide range of benefits, including medical treatment, wage replacement, and rehabilitation services.
Eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits typically includes any employee who has suffered an injury or illness as a direct result of their job duties. This can range from sudden accidents, like slips and falls, to long-term conditions, such as repetitive stress injuries or occupational diseases. Understanding your rights under workers’ compensation law is crucial to ensuring you receive the benefits you are entitled to, and a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer can provide valuable assistance throughout the process. Contact our Savannah workers compensation lawyer today.
Common Types of Workplace Injuries
Understanding the types of injuries that are commonly covered under workers’ compensation can help you identify if your situation qualifies. Here are some examples of workplace injuries and illnesses that are typically eligible for benefits:
- Slips, Trips, and Falls:
- Injuries from slipping on wet floors or tripping over obstacles.
- Falls from heights, such as ladders or scaffolding.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome from repetitive hand movements.
- Tendonitis from repetitive motions or overuse.
- Machinery Accidents:
- Injuries from operating heavy machinery or equipment.
- Cuts, lacerations, or crush injuries from machinery malfunctions.
- Transportation Incidents:
- Injuries sustained in vehicle accidents while on the job.
- Harm from operating forklifts or other work-related vehicles.
- Exposure to Harmful Substances:
- Respiratory issues from inhaling toxic fumes or dust.
- Skin conditions from contact with hazardous chemicals.
- Overexertion:
- Muscle strains or back injuries from lifting heavy objects.
- Injuries from repetitive lifting, pushing, or pulling.
- Workplace Violence:
- Physical injuries resulting from altercations with coworkers or customers.
- Psychological trauma from violent incidents at work.
Recognizing these common types of workplace injuries can help you understand if you might be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. If you have experienced any of these injuries, consulting with our workers’ compensation attorney can guide you through the claims process and help secure the benefits you deserve.
Savannah Workers Compensation Attorney FAQs
1. What should I do if I get injured on the job?
If you suffer an injury while at work, you should notify your supervisor immediately — and contact your human resources department to make sure an accident report is filed. Request medical treatment at the same time — because your employer may direct you to a specific medical provider who handles workers’ compensation injuries. Even if you aren’t sure your injuries are serious, it’s important to follow these steps — some long-term health conditions don’t appear right away, and you’ll want to have filed the appropriate reports if you develop any complications. A workers’ comp lawyer can help.
2. What can I do if my injuries prevent me from returning to my old job?
If you can no longer perform your job because of work-related injuries, the Workers’ Compensation Act provides for vocational rehabilitation. Depending on your state, this is usually supplied through your employer’s compensation carrier. You will be assigned to a vocational rehabilitation counselor to help you find new employment.
3. How long does my claim stay open?
If you have a workers’ compensation claim and you receive medical treatment but don’t lose any time from work, your claim will close within one year from the date of your last medical treatment paid for by the workers’ compensation carrier. However, if you were collecting weekly benefits, your claim would close two years from the last date you received compensation. A work injury lawyer can review your case.
4. What kind of benefits will I receive?
If you are injured at work, you should receive medical treatment, benefits for any wages lost, and benefits for any permanent disability caused by the injury.
5. What about Death Benefits?
Benefits for people killed as a result of a work-related accident or injuries vary from state to state. Typically, dependents of the deceased might be entitled to receive a percentage of the deceased’s weekly wage for a limited time period. Because death benefits are often more complicated to obtain, a workers’ compensation attorney can provide more information pertinent to your situation.
6. If I’m injured, should I let my employer’s insurance company record my statement regarding the accident?
Insurance carriers usually want a statement from anyone injured in a work-related incident. However, if you have any reason to think the insurance company may question the circumstances, you should consult with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Savannah before submitting a statement.
7. If I file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits, can I be fired by my employer?
No. It is against both state and federal law for an employer to fire an employee for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you have been led to believe that your job is at risk for filing a claim, this is not true — and you should talk to an attorney to protect your rights.
8. Are on-the-job injuries really all that common?
Unfortunately, yes. On an average day, more than 150 people are killed as a result of injuries or illnesses related to their jobs — and more than 15,000 are injured. That’s an injury or death every five seconds, so you should always exercise caution when performing a job-related task. When you suffer a work injury you should speak with a workers comp attorney right away.
9. I belong to a union – does that mean I shouldn’t consult an attorney to help with my workers’ compensation claim?
No – in fact, just the opposite is true. Often, you can achieve a better result from your claim by working with your union steward and an experienced Savannah workers’ compensation lawyer. Your union can be a useful resource for any relevant collective bargaining agreements, and may also help you obtain important data from the workplace. Your lawyer will be familiar with the legal issues pertinent to your case and will be able to draw upon past cases for additional recommendations.
10. Since I may qualify for Workers’ Compensation, why would I need a lawyer if I was injured on the job?
In theory, Workers’ Compensation law would provide you with the compensation needed to deal with any repercussions from your injuries. In reality, you may encounter obstacles that require legal assistance — such as not receiving proper medical treatment or your benefit checks, lack of communication from the insurance company, or long-term concerns about your future earning ability. A personal injury attorney in Savannah with experience in Workers’ Compensation can help with these issues and others, ensuring a more secure outcome for your case. A workman’s comp lawyer in Savannah can help you.
Debunking Workers’ Compensation Myths in Savannah, Georgia
Dispelling common myths around workers’ compensation in Savannah, Georgia, is crucial for those navigating their claims. One widespread misconception is that an injury must be a result of the employer’s fault to qualify for compensation, which is not the case. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning benefits can be available regardless of who was at fault for the injury.
Another myth is that filing a claim could lead to job loss. In reality, laws protect employees from retaliation for seeking workers’ compensation. Understanding these truths can empower workers to pursue their rightful benefits without undue fear. For more in-depth information, please contact our Savannah workers’ compensation attorney today.
Call our Savannah Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today!
If you were hurt on the job, we can help. Get started today by calling our Savannah workers’ compensation attorneys for a free consultation about your case.
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