Injured at Work?
Our Chattanooga workers’ compensation lawyers are prepared to help you file a claim or appeal if the insurance company already denied your claim.
Working with an experienced law firm like Gary Massey Injury Lawyers helps protect your rights and may increase your chances of recovering all the compensation you need.
Our lawyers have helped numerous employees secure benefits, and we represent work injury victims at no upfront cost. An initial legal consultation is also free. We are ready to take your call 24/7.
Causes of Workplace Injuries
Because each workplace is different, the causes of an on-the-job illness or injury are varied and numerous. Some basic causes, which may overlap between industries and job sites, include:
Regardless of the cause and even if the injury was accidentally caused by the injured employee himself, employers must provide benefits when employee injuries occur in the course and scope and arise out of the employment.
Depending on the cause of a job site injury, there may be a number of parties that may be held liable, including another employee, equipment manufacturers, contractors and subcontractors, outside individuals, and even employers.
However, in most states, including Tennessee, an injured employee may not sue their employer for negligence. Workers’ compensation is their only remedy. But it is possible for an employee to file a lawsuit against third parties.
Where to Get Treatment for a Workplace Injury in Chattanooga
If you’ve suffered an on-the-job injury, getting prompt and qualified medical attention is essential for both your recovery and your workers’ compensation claim. Chattanooga offers several trusted hospitals and rehabilitation centers equipped to handle everything from broken bones and burns to spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries.
It’s important to note that if you are beginning a workers’ compensation claim in Chattanooga, you are generally required to see a doctor approved or assigned by your employer or their insurance provider for your ongoing treatment. Tennessee law gives employers the right to present a list of authorized physicians, often called a “panel of doctors,” from which you must choose in order to keep your claim valid.
The hospitals and rehabilitation centers listed above are intended for emergency or immediate post-injury care, when fast medical attention is necessary to stabilize your condition. Once your initial treatment is complete, your employer’s approved medical provider will handle your follow-up care, physical therapy, and any work restrictions as your recovery continues.
Who Is Covered by Workers’ Compensation in Tennessee?
Workers’ compensation covers most full- and part-time employees in the state. Tennessee requires every employer with at least five employees to purchase coverage. State and local governments and those who employ domestic help or farm labor are exempt from this requirement.
Construction companies are required to carry coverage, even if they do not employ five people. However, construction companies can apply for an exemption from workers’ comp coverage.
The state requires every employer subject to the workers’ compensation law to display a document telling employees what to do after a work injury.
If you were injured at work and your employer is required to have coverage, our Chattanooga workers’ compensation lawyer is ready to help you pursue your claim. We can answer your legal questions during a free consultation.
What Workplace Injuries Qualify for Benefits?
If you were injured while engaged in work-related activity, and your employer is required to have workers’ compensation, you should be eligible for benefits.
Full- or part-time employees can also seek compensation for illnesses caused by exposure to toxic substances and repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.
You might be concerned about your eligibility if you were partially or fully at fault for the accident that caused your injury. However, workers’ compensation is no-fault coverage. You can obtain benefits regardless of who is at fault.
That said, if you were injured by engaging in a prank or horseplay, or after starting a fight with another employee, you are probably ineligible for coverage. However, if you were the victim of a fight or prank, you would likely still be eligible for coverage.
Unsure about your eligibility for benefits? Contact Gary Massey Injury Lawyers today.
What Benefits Can I Receive for My Workplace Injury?
Our Chattanooga workers’ compensation lawyers help work injury victims secure coverage for their medical care and lost wages. The insurance company will pay for medical care from your authorized treating physician for as long as he or she deems it necessary.
This may include emergency care, but only if there is an immediate need for care that is reasonable and necessary. You can also seek reimbursement for mileage if you must travel more than 15 miles in one direction for care.
Work injury victims can also seek compensation for disability caused by the accident, including:
Can Independent Contractors Get Workers’ Comp Benefits?
No, independent contractors cannot obtain workers’ compensation benefits. This insurance is reserved for employees. However, in Chattanooga, disputes often arise over whether a worker was truly an independent contractor or actually functioning as an employee.
For example, delivery drivers, construction subcontractors, and gig workers throughout Hamilton County are sometimes misclassified to avoid providing benefits. If you’re unsure about your employment status or believe you were wrongfully denied workers’ comp coverage, the attorneys at Gary Massey Injury Lawyers can review your job arrangement and help determine whether you’re legally entitled to protection under Tennessee workers’ compensation laws.
What if I Was Injured Away From Work?
Workers’ compensation coverage often extends beyond the physical boundaries of your usual workplace. If you were performing job-related duties, such as driving between job sites in Chattanooga, making a delivery to a client in East Ridge, or attending a work-sponsored event in Hamilton County, you might still be covered.
Tennessee law focuses on whether the injury occurred “in the course and scope” of your employment, not just where it happened. Even injuries suffered while traveling for business or working off-site on construction or maintenance projects could qualify for benefits. An experienced workers’ comp attorney can help you prove that your activities were connected to your job and ensure your claim is properly documented.
How Do I Report My Injury?
Tell your supervisor right away. Once you report your injury, your employer is obligated to help you get the medical care you need. In Tennessee, workers have only 15 days from the date of the injury, or when they became aware of it, to notify their employer, so prompt reporting is critical.
If you’re employed by a large Chattanooga company like EPB, TVA, or a regional construction firm, your HR department will typically provide the necessary forms and direct you to an approved medical provider. Be sure to submit your report in writing and keep a copy for your records. Doing so helps protect your rights if the employer later disputes your claim.
Can I Go to My Usual Doctor for Medical Care?
No, after getting initial medical treatment, you must choose from a panel of three physicians selected by your employer. The doctor you choose is known as an Authorized Treating Physician (ATP). This doctor will oversee your treatment, refer you to specialists when needed, and determine when you’re medically able to return to work.
While this rule can feel restrictive, it ensures that your care is formally documented for your workers’ comp claim. In emergency situations, such as being taken to Erlanger or Parkridge Medical Center after a workplace accident, you can receive treatment right away, but you’ll still need to select an ATP for all follow-up visits and long-term care once your claim is processed.
My Claim Was Denied—What Should I Do Now?
Our Chattanooga workers’ compensation lawyers are prepared to manage every step of your appeal.
