How Long Do You Have to Report an Injury in Georgia?

How Long Do You Have to Report an Injury in Georgia?

If you suffered a workplace injury, you may be confused about what to do next. If you wait too long to file your workers’ compensation claim, you may miss the opportunity to claim the benefits you need if you are unable to work.

Under the Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act, you must notify your employer of your injury within 30 days of its occurrence and file a claim within one year of the injury date. If you have questions about workers’ compensation or these timelines, a skilled and knowledgeable workers’ comp attorney at Kaufman Injury Law is ready to help you.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Georgia companies that employ three or more workers must carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage is used for an injured employee’s medical treatment and rehabilitation expenses. It can also provide income benefits up to certain limits if you miss work and lose wages.

How Do I Report A Workplace Injury?

If you are injured at work, you should notify your employer right away and complete a

Form WC-14 with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation (SBWC). Although it is best to provide immediate notification, you have thirty days from the date of the injury to report it.

If your employer has a specific claims form, you should use it to report your injury. If it does not have a form, it is best to have a written record as evidence of the notification date. You can provide the form to your supervisor, the foreman on the job site, or the company’s Human Resources manager. Your notice – whether a form or letter – should include as many details as possible, including:

• The date and time you sustained the injury
• The location of the injury
• The job duty or task you were performing when you were injured
• The nature of your injury, including the body part affected and the symptoms you experience
• A list of eyewitnesses to the incident or accident that caused your injury

What Injuries Are Covered by Workers’ Comp?

Workers’ compensation covers any injuries or illnesses caused or aggravated by your everyday job duties. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1.8 million workers sustained work-related injuries and were treated in emergency departments in the past four years. Some common injuries covered by workers’ comp include:

• Paralysis
• Disc herniations
• Amputations
• Wrongful death
• Rotator cuff tears
• Knee and hip injuries
• Electrocutions
• Injuries caused by heavy equipment

The treatment costs for these injuries can cause a significant financial burden on the injured worker. That’s why knowing the notice and claim deadlines for workers’ compensation in Georgia is crucial to ensure your eligibility for coverage and benefits. 

Contact Kaufman Injury Law Today

If you are injured at work, you need an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. You need Kenneth P. Raley, III, at Kaufman Injury Law. We understand that the legal process may be intimidating, especially if you are trying to recover from your injuries and do not know how you will pay your medical bills when you’re off unable to work. We are here to answer all your questions, guide you through the workers’ comp claims process, and help secure the benefits you need. Call us today for a free consultation.