Employees eligible for workers’ comp benefits typically receive two-thirds of their average weekly wage. However, compensation is capped at $800 per week for claims filed on or after July 1, 2023. Maximizing your weekly financial benefits starts with a comprehensive assessment of your salary, injuries, and impairment rating.
An Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer can help you understand the maximum payout for workers’ compensation in Georgia. An attorney can also help you accurately assess your average weekly wage and get all the financial benefits you are entitled to recover. Most personal injury law firms in Georgia will review your workers’ comp claim for free.
Who Qualifies for Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Georgia?
Companies in Georgia with three or more regular (full-time or part-time) employees must carry workers’ comp insurance. If your employer carries this insurance, you are covered from your first day of work. You can claim benefits if your injury or illness is related to your work, regardless of who is at fault.
In some cases, even 1099 employees (independent contractors) could qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. The best way to understand your right to these benefits is to work with a workers’ compensation attorney in your area.
When Do You Have to Report Your Injury or Illness to Your Employer?
Report a work-related injury or illness to your employer as soon as possible. State law generally gives you 30 days to provide appropriate notification.
Failure to provide prompt notification could jeopardize your ability to get the medical expense coverage and weekly income benefits you need and deserve. The best way to ensure you file your claim on time is to let your Atlanta personal injury lawyer handle it for you.
For a free legal consultation, call (404) 888-8888
How Much Compensation Can an Injured Worker Receive in Georgia?
According to the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation (SBWC), most injured workers will get two-thirds of their average weekly salary, up to $800 per week. How long you receive these weekly payments can vary according to the severity of your injuries and the length of time you cannot work.
If you can return to work in a limited capacity, your compensation will be capped at $533 per week if your injury or illness occurred or was discovered on or after July 1, 2023.
SBWC guidelines clarify injury status, impairment ratings, and associated financial compensation. The impairment rating you receive establishes how much compensation you can receive and for how long.
Temporary Total Disability Benefits (TTD)
These benefits are for workers who cannot return to work in any capacity for a limited time. You could also qualify for TTD if your employer cannot provide light-duty work for you.
Temporary Partial Disability Benefits (TPD)
These benefits are for workers who can return to work but only in a limited capacity and without the same earning potential. TPD benefits are generally two-thirds of the difference between your pre- and post-injury weekly salary.
Permanent Partial Disability Benefits (PPD)
These benefits are for workers with a catastrophic injury or illness that prevents them from returning to work in the future. PPD benefits are based on your impairment rating, per O.C.G.A. 34-9-263.
All workers’ comp benefits have a waiting period. They are only available once your injury or illness has forced you to miss at least seven days of work.
Do You Need a Lawyer to Apply for Workers’ Compensation in Georgia?
While hiring a lawyer is not mandatory, it may greatly benefit your workers’ comp claim. When you hire a lawyer to help you navigate the workers’ comp application process, they will do all of the following on your behalf:
- Provide step-by-step support, including defining all the medical and financial benefits you are entitled to receive
- Handle paperwork, including completing forms, compiling medical evidence, and meeting notification and filing deadlines
- Assess the monetary value of your benefits request, including accurately assessing your weekly wages and negotiating for a lump sum settlement, if applicable
- Ensure you receive all the medical care you need (at no cost to you) until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI)
- Explore any available third-party compensation for injuries caused by negligence
A lawyer can also keep you updated throughout the claims process, providing support and clarity at each phase of a complex procedure.
Can You Get a Lump Sum Settlement Without a Lawyer?
Rather than receiving weekly benefits, your workers’ compensation claim could qualify for a lump sum settlement. Lump sum settlement amounts can vary greatly depending on the extent of your workplace injury and its impact on your ability to work.
If a personal injury attorney represents you, they will negotiate on your behalf. A lump sum settlement could include:
- Lost wages for the maximum allowable time
- The cost of all injury or illness-related medical expenses
Your lawyer will draft a settlement letter and represent your best interests during the negotiation process. The SBWC must approve your settlement (your lawyer will deal with the board for you) and attorney’s fees.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Workers’ Comp Attorney?
Most workers’ compensation lawyers work on contingency, meaning they will prepare your application and build your claim at no upfront cost to you. Instead, they will receive a percentage of your financial award as compensation. If you do not receive benefits, you will not owe any legal or attorney’s fees.
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Learn How to Maximize Your Workers’ Compensation Payout in Georgia
If you were hurt at work, you are entitled to a financial recovery, no matter who was at fault for your injury or illness. Our legal team will help you fight for the best possible financial and medical benefits for you.
Find out more about the maximum payout for workers’ compensation in Georgia. Contact one of our Bader Law Injury Lawyers team members to learn more about your rights with a free claim review today.
Call or text (404) 888-8888 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
