If you’ve been injured at work, you’re probably wondering if there’s a time limit that applies to your claim. In fact, there are two key time limits you should be aware of when filing a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia.
In this blog, we’ll take a brief but informative look at these and how they may impact your right to workers’ comp benefits.
Deadline to Inform Your Employer
The first time limit we should talk about is the one that applies right after you’re injured. If you are diagnosed with an occupational illness or are injured on the job, you must inform your employer right away. If you wait longer than 30 days to tell your boss, supervisor, foreman, or other manager, you may lose your right to workers’ compensation altogether.
Be sure to inform your employer in writing of your accident, illness, or injury. Keep a copy for your records.
Georgia Workers’ Compensation Statute of Limitations
The second time limit relates to the filing of your workers’ compensation claim itself. This is referred to as a statute of limitations and restricts the timeframe in which one can initiate a legal proceeding.
According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) § 34-9-1, an employee who suffers a work-related injury or illness has one year to file a claim for benefits. This is much shorter than the two-year statute of limitations that applies to personal injury matters. If an injured worker waits too long to file a workers’ comp claim, his or her right to benefits may be surrendered.
What You Need to Do
If you or someone you love has experienced any type of workplace injury or illness, you cannot wait to take action. Mind the 30-day time limit to inform your employer and ensure your workers’ compensation claim is filed within 2 years, or you could find your benefits in jeopardy.
You may also find it highly beneficial to work with an attorney who is experienced with workers’ compensation matters in your area. The process of filing a claim can be complicated, and you may even find that your employer or the workers’ comp insurance provider is unwilling to treat you fairly. Unnecessary delays or even a simple mistake could leave you without the help you need—and deserve.
Talk to an Atlanta Workers’ Comp Lawyer Who Will Put Your Needs First
At Kaleita Law Firm, LLC, we know many workers struggle with the aftermath of on-the-job accidents and injuries. We believe in upholding workers’ rights and are willing to put in the time and effort it takes to seek fair and complete benefits for each of our clients.
If you’re interested in finding out how we can help you, give us a call at (888) 665-7699 for a free, confidential consultation. We’re here for you.