Atlanta Workers' Compensation Attorneys Answer: Is Your Injury or Illness Work Related?
In order to receive workers' compensation benefits in Georgia, an injured employee must prove that the injury or illness is work related. Generally, if you are an employee performing a work task for the benefit of your employer and you become injured or ill, the injury or illness will be considered work related. Injured employees can receive workers' compensation benefits if their injuries are work related and they meet other necessary requirements.
At times, the requirement that an injury or illness be "work related" can be challenging. A few common grey areas are discussed below. If your injury falls within an unclear area of the law, it is best to consult with a workers' compensation attorney as soon as possible to obtain assistance in receiving compensation for your injury or illness.
Travel
If you are injured while traveling to or from work, your injury will probably not be covered under workers' compensation. However, not all travel will be exempt from coverage. If you are traveling on a business trip, for instance, your injuries will generally be covered. If your job does not have a fixed worksite, then injuries sustained while performing work functions, no matter where they occur, could be covered. If you are injured while commuting in your company owned vehicle, your injuries could also be covered.
Lunch Breaks
If you are injured on a lunch break, your injuries will generally not be covered under workers' compensation. For instance, if you traveled to a local restaurant to pick up lunch on your break, you cannot claim workers' compensation for the injury. If, however, you were picking up lunch for your boss or a corporate event, your injuries could fall within the realm of workers' compensation. Additionally, if an accident occurs in the company cafeteria, your injuries could also be covered.
Preexisting Conditions
While you will not receive coverage for a preexisting injury, if your job aggravates a preexisting injury or illness, this could be covered under workers' compensation.
Dedicated Atlanta Worker's Compensation Lawyers Representing Injured Workers!
Our knowledgeable Worker's Compensation Lawyers provide aggressive representation, including workers' compensation and personal injury claims. Due to the fact that our firm has successfully represented thousands of injured people in personal injury cases, workers' compensation claims and families in wrongful death claims, we understand the physical, emotional and financial hardships faced by victims. We also understand what needs to be done to get people all of the compensation provided by law.
Montlick and Associates has been representing injured workers for over thirty years throughout all of Georgia and in the Southeast, including but not limited to all smaller cities and rural areas in the state. No matter where you are located our attorneys are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you.
Call us 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.