Common Conditions of Workers’ Compensation in Fort Oglethorpe
When a person is injured at work in Georgia, he or she may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. If a claim is approved by an insurer, the worker will receive a percentage of his or her normal salary until they are able to return to work. For many workers, this aid is a safety net; however, there are certain requirements employees must meet before benefits could be obtained.
If a person does not meet the conditions laid forth by an employer, insurance company, or the state of Georgia, benefits may not be available. If you are currently having your claim for compensation reviewed by an insurance company, you may want to learn more about common conditions of workers’ compensation in Fort Oglethorpe.
Basic Circumstances for Workers’ Compensation
In Georgia, not all employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. However, when they do, there are three basic conditions an employee must meet to obtain workers’ compensation benefits. While additional conditions often apply, these essential elements are:
- An injured worker must be a current employee
- This person must be employed by a company that carries workers’ compensation insurance
- The injured worker must file a compensation claim and report the injury in a timely manner
It is also important an employee meets any other special rules that apply to the industry of a worker. For example, certain types of workers—including domestic workers, seasonal employees, and agricultural workers—may have to meet different or additional requirements.
Generally, only employers with a certain number of employees are required to have insurance, while smaller companies and business owners may be exempt from these requirements. A company being exempt does not eliminate the possibility that they may still carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees, however. This is usually because carrying this insurance might protect them from potential lawsuits.
Preexisting Medical Conditions in Fort Oglethorpe
In Georgia, preexisting conditions may or may not have an impact on a worker’s claim for recovery. On one hand, if an illness or injury is exacerbated by the workplace, an injured individual may still be able to receive benefits. However, a worker with a preexisting condition may need to provide medical proof that a condition has worsened with time and is related to his or her current occupation.
Unfortunately, if a person receives compensation for a preexisting condition or injury, he or she might not be able to receive as much recovery for a condition that did not prior to employment. While compensation maybe ultimately be granted, an insurer may first require an injured person seeks treatment from multiple doctors.
Other Common Conditions for a Workers’ Comp Claim
As long as an employee is injured while performing a work-related task, his or her injury will more than likely be covered by workers’ compensation. Even if a person is injured at a work-related event, he or she may still be covered. However, employees who are injured while on break or while not abiding by company policies may not be eligible for compensation.
Reporting an injury and workers’ compensation claim in a timely manner is always necessary. There are strict deadlines associated with filing a claim, and if a person files a claim past the deadline, he or she may be denied benefits.
Discuss the Common Conditions of Workers’ Compensation in Fort Oglethorpe With an Attorney
The benefits provided by workers’ compensation could prove essential to an injured employee. However, obtaining coverage might be difficult, especially if a worker is underprepared or underrepresented.
If you were injured on the job, you will need to meet the common conditions of workers’ compensation in Fort Oglethorpe to obtain benefits. One of our skilled lawyers could help you to understand the nuances of the compensation system and work to build a persuasive claim. To discuss your legal options, call today.
