404-636-4900 In Georgia, those injured at work can file for workers’ compensation. When embarking on this legal process, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the necessary forms and procedures required to secure the benefits you’re entitled to. Here, a team of Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyers can provide you with much-needed advice to navigate the legal system.
In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know about Georgia’s workers’ compensation forms to help you manage and progress through your claim.
What Are The Forms From The Georgia State Board for Workers’ Compensation?
A workers’ compensation form is an official document used to communicate all information, requests, and actions related to a workers’ compensation claim. There are many forms with diverse purposes, including reporting injuries, documenting wage details, and notifying parties of claim statuses or disputes, among others.
Overall, Georgia workers’ compensation forms ensure all necessary details are communicated to the appropriate parties, such as employers, insurance companies, and the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.
Most Common Georgia Workers’ Compensation Forms
When embarking on a workers’ compensation claim, properly completing and submitting the necessary forms will ensure you receive the necessary benefits and address any arising disputes.
Some of the most common workers’ compensation forms you need to file after a workplace injury in Georgia include:
- WC-1 (Employer’s First Report of Injury): This form is completed by employers after an employee reports a work-related injury. It initiates the claims process, prompting the insurance company to investigate and determine benefits eligibility, either accepting or denying the claim.
- WC-2 (Notice of Payment or Suspension of Benefits): This form notifies the injured worker about their benefits’ payment and any modifications or suspensions.
- WC-3 (Notice to Controvert): This form is used by employers or insurers to deny liability for a workers’ compensation claim, either in whole or in part. It specifies the reasons for the denial and initiates the process to resolve disputes over the claim.
- WC-6 (Wage Statement): This form details the injured worker’s wages to accurately calculate benefits, which ensures proper compensation for lost wages.
- WC-14 (Notice of Claim/Request for Hearing/Request for Mediation): This form is used to file a claim and request a hearing or mediation. It serves to formally initiate the claim process and solve disputes effectively.
You can browse and download each form directly from the State Board of Workers’ Compensation website. If you are unsure about how to complete these forms or understand which ones are required in your specific circumstances, don’t hesitate to contact us to talk with a workers’ compensation attorney.
What is the Purpose of Form WC-14 in Georgia’s Workers’ Compensation System
Form WC-14 is used to formally notify the State Board of Workers’ Compensation about your claim and to request a hearing or mediation.
On the one hand, filing this form ensures your case is officially recognized, and filing it correctly and promptly makes the difference between a smoothly handled claim and one filled with delays and complications.
Additionally, this form allows you to request a hearing or mediation to resolve disputes related to your claim. Whether you’re disputing the denial of benefits, contesting the amount of compensation, or addressing other issues, the WC-14 form initiates the process for these disputes to be heard and resolved in a formal setting.
Who Must Send the Workers’ Compensation Form
In Georgia, both the employer and the injured worker have responsibilities when it comes to submitting workers’ compensation forms.
Employers generally file the initial report of injury (WC-1). This form must be submitted promptly after the injury occurs to officially document the incident and start the workers’ compensation process. The employer must also provide copies of this form to the injured worker and the workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
Injured workers, on the other hand, may later need to submit forms such as the WC-14 if they haven’t received any benefits from their employer or the employer’s insurance company. For example, if the settlement you receive is lower than the average workers’ compensation settlement in Georgia, filing form WC-14 allows you to initiate a formal review of the case.
Consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney can be highly beneficial in this situation. We can help you gather medical records, wage statements, and other supporting documentation to substantiate your claim, ensure all necessary forms are submitted correctly, and advocate for a fair settlement on your behalf. Our firm has assisted injured workers in Georgia since 1974, bringing extensive experience, knowledge, and resources to each case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Compensation Claims in Georgia
How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Georgia?
You have one year from the date of your accident to file a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia.
What If My Employer Refuses To File A Workers’ Compensation Claim?
If your employer refuses to file a claim, you can file the WC-14 form by yourself. It is advisable to seek legal help in this situation.
Can I Choose My Own Doctor for Treatment?
In Georgia, your employer should provide a panel of at least six doctors that you can choose from for your treatment.
What Kind of Benefits Can I Receive?
Benefits can include medical treatment, income benefits if you cannot work, and permanent disability benefits if your injury results in permanent impairment.
Contact a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
At Deming Parker, our lawyers bring invaluable expertise to each stage of your claim. We’ll represent you in hearings or mediations, contest denials, and handle negotiations with insurance companies, among other tasks. By entrusting your case to us, you’re more likely to secure the benefits you deserve and avoid costly mistakes.
If you’re dealing with a work-related injury and need legal assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.
