Employees in Georgia can get hurt while on the clock. Delivery drivers might experience collisions, while retail employees could be at risk of repetitive strain injuries or violent encounters with customers. One of the first questions injured employees have after an incident is often whether or not they qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
Under Georgia laws, most employers in the state have an obligation to carry workers’ compensation coverage. Employees can then potentially make a claim for benefits to cover their medical expenses and to replace their lost income. The following types of injuries are just some of those that are typically eligible for workers’ compensation coverage in Georgia.
Sudden traumatic injuries
There is one type of injury associated with workers’ compensation, it might be traumatic injuries incurred due to on-the-job incidents. Machinery malfunctions, slip-and-falls and a host of other experiences can cause immediate traumatic injuries. Traumatic injuries that occur on the job are typically eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. It does not matter if the incident is the fault of a co-worker, maintenance issues that the company should have addressed or a mistake that the injured employee made.
Cumulative trauma injuries
There are many medical conditions that may develop because of an employee’s repetitive job functions. A receptionist or driver might develop carpal tunnel syndrome in their hands and forearms. Those who regularly lift or twist on a production line could develop cumulative trauma to their back, shoulders or hips. Repetitive strain injuries and similar medical conditions that result from repeatedly performing the same job functions may be eligible for workers’ compensation coverage.
Illnesses can qualify too
There are many scenarios in which workers could be eligible for benefits because of an illness rather than an injury. Employees exposed to pathogens at work and those who handle carcinogenic materials may eventually develop serious health conditions because of their jobs. In some cases, workers who can connect a disease or illness to their employment can ask for disability benefits and medical coverage for their treatments. Employees may need medical documentation connecting their condition to their employment to qualify.
Reviewing what led to an employee’s diagnosis with a skilled legal team can help them explore whether or not they may be eligible for workers’ compensation coverage. Pursuing benefits can help people get the care they need and continue paying their bills if they are unable to work.