Posted on Saturday, February 25th, 2017 at 4:47 pm
Earlier this week we posted a brief introduction to Workers’ Compensation in the state of Georgia. We told you what workers’ compensation is, and answered some basic questions that we often receive from individuals who have been injured on the job. Today we’d like to discuss what to do if you have been injured, but are denied workers’ compensation benefits.
How do I file a claim for workers’ compensation?
You have up to one year to file a claim to protect your rights. In order to do so you will need to file Form WC-14. The State Board of Workers’ Compensation can provide you with this form.
State Board of Workers’ Compensation
270 Peachtree St., NW
Atlanta, GA 30303-1299
My workers’ compensation benefits have been denied, what do I do now?
If your benefits have been denied your next step is to request a hearing before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation (see above address). An administrative law judge will listen to both sides of the claim and make a decision to determine what benefits, if any, you should receive.
Do I need to have a lawyer represent me at the hearing?
You have the right to represent yourself, but be aware that your employer will more than likely be represented by a lawyer. Having an experienced and knowledgeable attorney can be the difference between losing and winning your workers’ compensation case.
How much will a lawyer cost?
You will need to agree on a cost between yourself and your law firm of choice. The personal injury lawyers of Jonathan Brockman will always offer you a free case evaluation. They will get to know the specifics of your case, and work with you to determine your best options moving forward. At that time they will also discuss pricing.
Timing and a decisive understanding of workers’ compensation are imperative if your benefits have been denied and you need to take your case to court. If you live in the Metro Atlanta area and have any questions please contact of our three metro Atlanta locations.