Common Questions & Answers When Hurt On The Job

Story Highlights:
Answers to frequently asked questions regarding a work related injury
Georgia Workers’ Compensation

Date: Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Location: Atlanta, Georgia | Atlanta Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Type: Workers’ Compensation
Outcome: Questions and answers for those injured on the job
 

Q: When and who do I report a work injury too?

A: If you are hurt while in the course and scope of employment you should immediately notify your supervisor. In most cases you are required to report an on the job injury within 30 days of the date of injury to your supervisor or Human Resources Department. Next the employer may have you complete an incident report. Remember to always refer to your employee handbook if you have any questions regarding the companies policies and procedures.

Q: Can I see my own family physician?

A: Upon completion of your report of injury you should also ask for a copy of the “panel of physicians”. This “panel of physicians” is a list of doctors which should be located somewhere convenient to all employees such as in a break room area or near the time clock. In most cases you will be allowed to choose a physician from the posted “panel of  physicians”. However, in the event there is not a panel posted or if the panel is not legally valid you may be able to select a doctor of your own choosing. Although your injury may not seem serious to you at first, it is important to report it and follow these steps to protect your rights in the future should your injury become more serious.
 
Q: Do I keep drawing a pay check if the doctor takes me out of work because of my injury?

A: You may be entitled to weekly indemnity benefits if your physician has taken you out of work. Each state varies on how and when these benefits become available to you as well as how long you may receive benefits through Workers’ Compensation. In the event that a work related accident would result in a fatality then the dependants of the deceased may be entitled to receive benefits or a settlement. Again, this varies from state to state.

Q: If I file a workers’ compensation claim will I be let go from my job?

A: Many people, following a work related accident, may be fearful of losing their job and therefore do not want to report it. Remember, it is against federal and state law for an employee to be fired for filing a workers’ compensation claim.

Q: When do I need to contact an attorney?

A: These questions and many others may arise following a work related injury. Don’t prolong your worry or concern. Call Murphy and Associates and talk to someone experienced in workers’ compensation to get the answers to your questions. Often we see injured workers’ wait too long to contact an attorney regarding their rights.  If you or a loved one have been injured on the job please contact us for a free consultation at (770) 577-3020.