When you’re injured on the job, the workers’ compensation system is supposed to provide the medical care and income benefits you need to recover. But anyone who has tried to navigate a claim on their own knows the process can be overwhelming, confusing, and, sometimes, unfair. Insurance companies are often looking for ways to minimize what they pay, and without legal guidance, many workers end up receiving far less than they deserve.
Hiring an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your claim. Here are the top reasons partnering with a lawyer can increase your benefits and protect your future.
- Attorneys Ensure Your Claim Is Filed Correctly and On Time
A single mistake, such as missing a deadline, filling out a form incorrectly, or failing to notify your employer properly, can jeopardize your entire claim. Workers’ compensation attorneys understand Georgia’s strict filing requirements and make sure every step is completed accurately and on time.
This reduces the risk of delays, denials, or disputes that could cost you important benefits.
- They Help You Access the Medical Treatment You Need
Insurance companies may try to limit or deny certain medical treatments, tests, referrals, or specialists. An attorney knows:
- How to challenge treatment denials
- When to request a second opinion
- How to navigate Georgia’s Panel of Physicians
- What to do if the insurer pressures you to return to work too soon
Getting proper medical care not only supports your recovery, but it also directly impacts the amount and type of benefits you may be entitled to.
- Attorneys Protect You From Being Undervalued or Pressured
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, meaning your best interests are not their priority. Without legal representation, you may be pressured into:
- Accepting a lower settlement
- Returning to work before you’re ready
- Agreeing to inaccurate work restrictions
- Missing out on wage benefits you qualify for
A workers’ compensation attorney advocates solely for you, ensuring you’re treated fairly and not taken advantage of during a vulnerable time.
- They Accurately Calculate the Benefits You’re Owed
Determining your accurate benefit amount isn’t always straightforward. Your attorney reviews details such as:
- Your correct average weekly wage
- Lost income from multiple jobs
- Applicable disability ratings
- Available temporary or permanent benefits
- Future medical expenses
Many workers unknowingly accept benefits that are too low simply because they don’t know the full value of their claim. A lawyer ensures nothing is missed.
- Attorneys Handle Disputes and Prepare Strong Evidence
If your claim is denied or if the insurer disputes the extent of your injuries, your attorney gathers evidence to build a strong case. This can include:
- Medical records
- Expert testimony
- Statements from coworkers or supervisors
- Vocational assessments
- Documentation of unsafe work conditions
If necessary, a workers’ compensation attorney represents you at hearings before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation and presents the strongest possible case on your behalf.
- They Negotiate Higher Settlements
Most workers’ compensation claims end in settlement. Without legal knowledge, it’s nearly impossible to know whether an offer is fair.
Attorneys leverage their experience, case data, and understanding of what insurance companies typically pay to negotiate a larger settlement.
- Peace of Mind When You Need It Most
Recovering from a workplace injury is stressful enough. An attorney handles the paperwork, communication, and negotiations so you can focus on healing.
You get peace of mind knowing someone is protecting your rights and maximizing your benefits from start to finish.
When to Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
You should always reach out to a lawyer if:
- Your claim was denied
- Your benefits stopped unexpectedly
- You suffered a serious or long-term injury
- You believe you’re not receiving the correct wage benefits
- You’re unsure what doctor you can see
- You’re being pressured to return to work too soon
- You’re considering a settlement
The sooner you get legal help, the stronger your claim will be.
Get the Benefits You Deserve With Hollington Brown LLP
At Hollington Brown LLP, our Augusta workers’ compensation attorneys are committed to helping injured workers secure the full benefits they are entitled to under Georgia law. We handle every detail of your case, from filing to negotiations to hearings, so you can focus on your recovery.
If you’ve been hurt on the job, don’t face the process alone.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let our team fight for the benefits you deserve.
