Workplace injuries happen. While occupational hazards are often preventable, when they do occur it is important to understand what the timeline looks like for the recovery, benefits, and claims processes. After an accident, it is essential to act in a timely manner with reporting information about your situation and filing a claim if you do not receive your workers’ compensation benefits.

From the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation FAQ, we’ve compiled a list of questions and answers about the workers’ compensation timeline—from reporting to recovery—to help you better understand what to do in the event of an at-work accident:

Following employment, when does workers’ compensation coverage begin?

You are entitled to workers’ compensation coverage from the first day on your job onward.

How soon should I report a workplace accident, injury, or sickness?

You should report any on-the-job accident to your employer immediately. You may lose your claim to benefits if you wait 30 days post-incident to file a report.

When do I get benefits?

If you are unable to work for more than seven days, you are entitled to weekly income benefits. Your first check should be mailed to you within 21 days after the first day you missed work. If you miss more than 21 consecutive days, you will be paid for the first week.

How long will I receive weekly benefits?

You are entitled to benefits for up to 400 weeks. In the case of a permanent disability, you may be entitled to lifetime benefits. In certain circumstances, your benefits may be reduced after you have been released to return to work with limitations or restrictions or suspended if you are released to return to work with no limitations or restrictions.

What if I don’t receive my workers’ compensation benefits?

If you fail to receive workers’ compensation benefits, you must file a claim within one year from the date of your accident. 

How do I file a claim?

To file a claim, submit a Form WC-14 to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

What happens after I file a claim?

If you do not receive any benefits, you may request a hearing before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation. A hearing is like a trial in the courts of Georgia. Your claim will be decided by an Administrative Law Judge who listens to both sides of the claim and determines what benefits, if any, you should receive.

When will the hearing take place?

The hearing generally will be scheduled within 60 days from the time the judge receives the Form WC-14.

The workers’ compensation process and timeline—from your first day on the job to your date of injury to your date of receiving benefits or your date of filing a claim—is a lot to understand and keep track of. A licensed workers’ compensation attorney is here to help you navigate this stressful situation and get you the care and compensation you deserve. Contact Poirier Law Firm if you have suffered a work-related injury. 

Source: https://sbwc.georgia.gov/frequently-asked-questions/workers-compensation-law-faqs