Workers Comp Laws

The Marietta law firm of Nicholson & Associates offers an informative look at the Georgia workers compensation laws.

Workers compensation laws are designed to provide medical and disability benefits to injured workers and their dependants while protecting employers from personal injury lawsuits. Workers comp is, in essence, a no fault system that insures that injured workers claims will be met without regard for negligence. Workers compensation is a form of insurance that employers are required by law to provide for their employees to cover losses from work-related injuries or deaths.

Workers compensation laws vary from state to state but cover most employees and workers who are employed by organizations employing three or more people. Under the law, employers must:

• Provide workers compensation coverage for their employees or qualify as a self-insurer.
• Post the State Board of Worker’s Compensation Bill of Rights for the injured worker in a conspicuous place and provide proof of insurance.
• Complete and file an Employer’s First Report of Injury or Occupational diseases and submit it to the insurance company that handles its workers compensation claims and to the State Board of Worker’s Compensation (www.sbwc.georgia.gov).
• Select from three medical care options, a traditional panel of physicians, a conformed panel of physicians, or a panel listing the workers compensation board approved managed care organizations and post prominently, the chosen panel.

Thus, an injured worker is somewhat restricted in the type of care he may receive under workers compensation laws. Workers compensation laws also limit the time allowed for the reporting of injuries and the filing of forms. Additionally, if the employer fails to provide workers comp benefits than he is personally liable for all compensable injuries and may be required to pay additional penalties and fees.

The Nicholson & Associates law firm has extensive experience in all types of workers compensation cases and has provided outstanding advice and representation to those injured on the job in Georgia. Call us in Marietta at 866-959-3583 toll free or use our quick contact web form.