Apr 13, 2023
The Latest Atlanta Workers’ Comp Claim Statistics
Nate Hansford
It is a major pain to get injured at work and be unable to return for weeks or months. If you experienced a catastrophic injury and have a permanent disability, this can be devastating for your career. Not only can you suffer, but also your family and dependents. When you’ve been injured in Atlanta, GA, and get denied or received minuscule workers’ compensation benefits, then is time to speak to an understanding attorney who can represent your case.
Injured workers should always seek qualified workers’ compensation legal advice if they have questions about their claims. Legal counsel will help you make sure that all paperwork is submitted correctly. With the proper guidance, injured workers can ensure that all aspects of the settlement are fair and properly handled. To learn more, call Hansford McDaniel Law Firm today for a free consultation with Georgia’s workers’ compensation lawyers.
Workers’ Comp Statistics in Atlanta Georgia
These recent workers’ compensation statistics can help you get a better grasp of what to expect:
- There were a total of 82,215 medical claims in Georgia.
- Of the medical claims, $102,871,784 was dispersed.
- There were a total of 32,137 indemnity claims.
- $732,297,371 was meted out for indemnity benefits.
- Up to 78,000 nonfatal private workplace injuries happened in Georgia in 2019.
- On average, there are 2.5 injuries per 100 workers each year in Georgia.
- The national rate of injuries is 2.8 injuries per 100 workers.
- The national workers’ compensation rejection rate is 5.8% to 6.9% annually.
How Long Does It Take To Settle a Workers Comp Case in Georgia?
The length of time it takes to settle a workers comp case in Georgia can vary greatly from one case to the next:
The Average Time
On average, it may take several months or even years for a claim to be fully resolved. This is due to the complexity of such cases as well as the potential for appeals or court hearings.
Several Factors Influence the Case Outcome
In order for a worker’s compensation claim to be approved, all necessary paperwork must be collected and submitted, medical evaluations completed and an agreement reached between the parties involved. Depending on these factors, a settlement could take anywhere from six weeks to two years or more.
Attorneys Can Help You and Speed up the Process
Injured workers need to understand the process thoroughly before making any decisions regarding their claims so they can make sure they are getting everything they are entitled to. If a worker ever has any questions or concerns, they should always seek qualified legal advice before making decisions regarding their case. With proper guidance, the process can be made as stress-free and successful as possible for everyone involved.
The Negotiation Could Be Immediate or Create a Standstill
In Georgia workers’ compensation cases, both parties have the option of negotiating an agreement with each other without filing a formal lawsuit in court. In many cases, this is the most efficient way to resolve the dispute and ensures that all parties are treated fairly throughout the process.
Going to Court Takes Longer
An injured worker can also choose to file a claim in court if negotiations fail or if there is a disagreement between the parties about any aspect of the claim. If a court case is filed, it may take several months to two years or more for the matter to be fully resolved. Try to understand your rights and options with the help of a workers’ compensation attorney before making decisions so they can ensure they are getting everything they deserve from their settlement.
What Is the Workers’ Compensation Rate in Georgia?
The maximum Temporary Total Disability rate is $725.00 per week as of July 2022. The maximum Temporary Partial Disability rate is $483.00 per week. Also, the maximum benefit a spouse can claim is $290,000.00.
You may be eligible for additional benefits such as reimbursement for medical expenses and a permanent impairment rating. The amount of these benefits will depend on the specifics of each individual case. Consult with a qualified attorney before making decisions regarding filing a claim in court.
Is There Always a Settlement in Work Comp Cases in Georgia?
Not all work comp cases in Georgia will result in a settlement. If negotiations fail or there is a disagreement between the parties about any aspect of the claim, a court case may be necessary to resolve the dispute and ensure both sides are treated fairly. In some cases, an injured worker may receive compensation even if the case does not settle. For example, if a court awards income benefits. To get the best legal advice, consult with a qualified attorney before making decisions regarding filing a lawsuit in court.
What Are the Types of Benefits I Can Claim for Worker’s Compensation in Georgia?
In Georgia, you may be eligible for various types of benefits, depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Generally speaking, these benefits can include medical expenses related to the injury or illness, disability payments for lost wages due to an inability to work, and rehabilitation services if necessary. In some cases, you may also be entitled to compensation for any long-term effects of the injury. As always, it is best to consult with a qualified attorney before making decisions regarding filing a claim.
Medical Expenses
You may be eligible for reimbursement for medical expenses related to your injuries or illness, including hospitalization and prescription medications.
Lost Wages
You can claim for disability income payments if you are unable to work during the recovery period. The amount of these payments will depend on the individual’s wages prior to their injury.
Rehabilitation Services
If necessary, you can receive compensation for rehabilitation services such as physical therapy or occupational therapy. This can help you regain strength and mobility after the injury, and allow you to return to work more quickly.
Permanent Disability Benefits
You may also be eligible for compensation for any permanent loss of use of a body part resulting from the injury. The amount of these benefits will depend on your particular situation.
Funeral Bills
The injured worker’s family may be eligible for reimbursement of funeral and burial expenses in the event of death due to a work-related injury or illness.
Lost Earning Capacity
In cases where the injured worker’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence, their family may be eligible for additional compensation to cover lost earning capacity.
Spousal Benefits
The injured worker’s surviving spouse or dependents may be eligible for benefits to cover living expenses and lost wages due to the death of their loved one.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for Worker’s Compensation in Georgia?
In Georgia, injured workers have one year from the date of their injury or illness to file a claim for worker’s compensation. This time limit is known as the Statute of Limitations. There are exceptions to this rule, so it is always best to consult with a qualified attorney before making decisions about filing a claim in court.
What Are My Options if I Disagree With the Worker’s Compensation Decision in Georgia?
If you disagree with a decision made by the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation, you can appeal the decision. This is done by filing a “Appeal” with the State Board. The request should include all relevant evidence and documentation related to the case. Additionally, it is important to note that appeals must be timely filed.s. If this deadline is missed, then any challenge to the initial decision may be barred by law. As always, it is best to consult with a qualified attorney before making decisions regarding filing a claim in court.
What Are the Stages of Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim In Georgia?
The process of filing a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia typically involves four stages: notification of the injury or illness, medical treatment and evaluation, filing a claim for benefits with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation, and appeal if necessary. If an injured worker is unable to file their claim within the one-year statute of limitations, it may be possible to extend this time frame by appealing to the board.
Notification of Injury
The first step is to notify the employer or supervisor of the injury or illness. This should be done as soon as possible, and all relevant documentation should be kept on file for future reference.
Medical Treatment and Evaluation
After notification of the injury or illness, medical treatment and evaluation may be necessary in order to properly assess the severity of the injury or illness.
File a Claim
Once the medical evaluation has been completed, the injured worker can file a claim for benefits with the State Board Of Workers’ Compensation. The claim should include all relevant documentation, including medical records and any other evidence that supports the claim.
Your Employers’ Insurance Company Sends a Letter
After the claim has been filed, the insurance company will send a letter confirming that they have received it. This letter should include an explanation of any benefits and how to file for them.
State Board of Workers’ Compensation Approves Or Disapproves
After all of the evidence has been reviewed, the Employer/Insurer will make a decision as to whether or not to approve or deny the worker’s claim for benefits.
Appeal If Necessary
If you disagree with the decision made by the Employer/Insurer, you can file a “Request for Hearing” with the State Board. The request should include all relevant evidence and documentation related to the case.
How Attorneys Can Help You During an Appeal?
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can be very helpful during an appeal. A lawyer can help you understand the process and your rights, as well as provide advice on how to best present your case. Additionally, they can review all documentation related to the claim and advise you on what steps to take if the board denies your claim. They can also represent you in court if the case goes to trial.
Information You’ll Need to Make a Successful Claim:
- Documentation of the injury or illness
- Medical records related to treatment for the injury or illness
- Proof that the employee notified their employer about the injury or illness
- Evidence of lost wages due to the injury or illness
- Any other evidence that supports your claim for benefits
- An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer
- A completed claim form with all the required information filled out accurately
- Knowledge of the one-year statute of limitations and how to extend it if necessary
What Are the Benefits of Filing an Appeal?
Filing an appeal often offers several advantages over simply accepting a denial from the Employer/Insurer or the State Board. If you’re unsatisfied with the response and believe that the compensation you’ve been assigned is too small, your attorney can file an appeal. You and your attorney are given the opportunity to review any errors and submit a timely appeal to the admin. They will then review your claim and set up a mediation meeting between you and your employer. If your employer, their insurance company, and you don’t come to an agreement, then you can attend a trial. Your attorney will represent you and highlight the main reasons why your injuries justify a much higher compensation. When you don’t receive enough compensation, you can struggle financially and won’t be able to afford your medical care. Your family can also suffer if you have dependents. Rather than be stuck with a decision that is unreasonable, file an appeal so that you can be fairly compensated.
In general, claims for workers’ compensation in Georgia must be filed within one year from the date of injury or when an illness related to the job first appears. Don’t delay seeking help from our reputable workers’ comp attorneys. We work on a contingency fee basis not requiring you to pay upfront. For more information, reach out to Hansford McDaniel Law Firm today for a free consultation.
