Stephen Hasner | Workers' Compensation | November 8, 2016
On-the-job accidents can happen in any occupation, and when they do, the damage that results can be severe. Depending on the type of injuries you sustain, you may be facing the need for ongoing medical care and treatment, while being unable to work and provide for yourself and your loved ones. Fortunately, workers’ compensation is available to help you through this potentially difficult time.
At Hasner Law PC, we understand the impacts you may be facing. One call is all it takes to get our Georgia workers’ compensation lawyers working hard on your behalf, so that you can get the benefits you deserve.
If you have suffered an on-the-job injury, the following is important information that can help you with your workers’ compensation claim.
Report the Work Injury
Workers’ compensation is regulated in Georgia by the State Board of Workers’ Compensation (SBWC). The SBWC oversees the process by which workers’ compensation insurers provide valuable medical, rehabilitative, and income benefits for injured workers. The first step in getting these benefits is to report any injuries that occur immediately to your boss or supervisor. In the event your injuries prevent you from reporting it yourself at the time of the accident, make sure a coworker, friend, or family member reports it for you.
Once the injury is reported, you should seek medical care right away. Your employer is required to post the names of approved medical providers in the event on-the-job accidents occur. Regardless of how minor your symptoms may appear, report them to the doctor at once, and follow all instructions in terms of follow-up care, including any work restrictions. Failing to report your injury within the first 30 days after it happened, not getting medical treatment right away, and not following doctor’s instructions are all reasons your claim can be denied.
How To Fill Out An Accident Report Form for Workers’ Compensation
The SBWC Employee Handbook is a good reference source when filing a Georgia workers’ compensation claim. It advises that you obtain the appropriate accident reporting forms from your employer, fill them out completely, and forward them to the appropriate place for processing as soon as possible. When filling out these forms, you will want to be sure and include the following:
- The date and time you were injured;
- A detailed description of the accident;
- Names of any witnesses present;
- The name of the initial supervisor you reported it to;
- A detailed description of the injuries you suffered;
- The name and contact information for the medical provider who is treating you, and a description of the types of treatments being provided.
Contact an Atlanta Workers’ Compensation Lawyer at Hasner Law PC
While you are not required to have a lawyer represent you in your Georgia workers’ compensation claim, having an experienced legal advocate on your side can help ensure your rights to these benefits are protected. An experienced attorney can make sure your claim is reported and filed correctly, while assisting you in getting the benefits you are entitled to, in a timely manner. If you have a workers’ compensation claim that has been denied, a lawyer may be able to help you appeal the decision.
For more information, please contact the Atlanta workers’ compensation law firm of Hasner Law P.C. at our nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve in Fulton County, Chatham County, and its surrounding areas:
Hasner Law PC – Atlanta Law Office
2839 Paces Ferry Rd SE #1050
Atlanta, GA 30339
(678) 888-4878
Hasner Law PC – Savannah Law Office
221 W York St
Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 234-2334
