Generally, no compensation is allowed for an injury or death due to an employee’s “willful misconduct.” O.C.G.A. §34-9-17. Moreover, if the injury or death of the employee is due to (more…)
Workers’ Compensation Act
Messing up my workers’ compensation case
Recently, I had a Piedmont Hospital employee ask me how most clients “mess up” their workers’ compensation case. After some thought, I advised her that the most common issue clients have is not (more…)
Is the employer required to provide medical treatment because of a workers’ compensation injury?
Yes, the Workers’ Compensation Act provides that “Employer/Insurer shall furnish the employee entitled to benefits under this chapter such medical, surgical, and hospital care and other treatment, items and services which are prescribed by a licensed physician . . . reasonably required and appear likely to effectuate a cure, give relief, or restore the employee to suitable employment.” In other words, the Employer and the insurance company are responsible for the reasonable medical treatment related to the work accident.
Board Rule 200(a)(1) further explains that the: “Employer/Insurer have a duty to provide all reasonable and necessary medical treatment in a timely manner and to give appropriate assistance in contacting medical providers when necessary.” Similarly, the Employer and Insurance company must approve and authorize this treatment without significant delay.
In our experience, many injured workers fall victim to delays and denials of medical treatment as they are not properly trained on what to ask for or what to do. Medical treatment is crucial to properly heal from the work accident. If you have suffered a work related accident and you are unable to get medical care, we recommend you call us at 404-355-3431 to assist you.
Truck Driver Injured While Driving
Employees of trucking companies generally enjoy the same rights as other employees when it comes to workers’ compensation. The exception is the “owner-operator”. These owner-operators are specifically excluded from the Workers’ Compensation Act. The statute provides (more…)
Valentine’s Day brings joy to most but can mean injury for others
Thousands of people will be rushing to their favorite romantic restaurant this week for Valentine’s Day. In preparing for these meals, restaurant workers will be working very hard and have a greater likelihood of being injured. The (more…)
