What is important to know about workers' compensation laws in Augusta?

I had a client call me last week who had injured his back working at Plant Vogtle in Waynesboro, Georgia. He asked me, “What is workers’ comp? What benefits does it allow?” If you’re reading this, you may be asking the same question. The state of Georgia allows income benefits, medical benefits, and an impairment rating for workers who are injured working in the scope of their employment. It also allows for lost wages for as long as a doctor says “no work,” or “light duty work,” and the employer cannot provide light duty. Additionally, it allows for medical benefits with an authorized doctor for the type of medical treatment that the authorized doctor prescribes. These medical benefits can last up to eight years; if it’s a catastrophic injury, they can be lifetime medical benefits. Lastly, when a doctor has finished treatment and the claimant has permanent limitations, the doctor can then sign a permanent impairment rating.

The state of Georgia allows income benefits, medical benefits, and an impairment rating for workers who are injured working in the scope of their employment. It also allows for lost wages for as long as a doctor says “no work,” or “light duty work,” and the employer cannot provide light duty. Additionally, it allows for medical benefits with an authorized doctor for the type of medical treatment that the authorized doctor prescribes. These medical benefits can last up to eight years; if it’s a catastrophic injury, they can be lifetime medical benefits. Lastly, when a doctor has finished treatment and the claimant has permanent limitations, the doctor can then sign a permanent impairment rating.