Suffering an injury at work can turn your life upside down. Between medical appointments, lost wages, and pressure from insurance companies, it’s often difficult to know whether you should handle your workers’ compensation claim on your own or seek legal help. While some claims are straightforward, many are not.
If any of the following situations apply to your case, it may be time to contact an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Augusta.
- Your Workers’ Comp Claim Was Denied
One of the clearest signs you need legal representation is a denied claim. Insurance companies may deny workers’ comp benefits for reasons such as missed deadlines, disputes over whether the injury was work-related, or claims that your condition is pre-existing.
A workers’ comp lawyer can review the denial, gather supporting evidence, and file an appeal to fight for the benefits you deserve.
- Your Benefits Were Suddenly Stopped or Reduced
If you were receiving benefits and they were unexpectedly reduced or terminated, this is a red flag. Insurers may claim you are able to return to work or that your condition has improved, even when your doctor disagrees.
An attorney can challenge unfair benefit terminations and ensure your medical condition and work restrictions are accurately represented.
- Your Injury Is Serious or Long-Term
Workplace injuries involving surgeries, permanent disabilities, chronic pain, or long recovery periods often require more than basic workers’ comp coverage. These cases are typically more complex and involve higher financial stakes.
A workers’ comp lawyer can help pursue full medical benefits, wage replacement, and any permanent disability compensation you may be entitled to under Georgia law.
- Your Employer Disputes Your Injury
If your employer claims your injury didn’t happen at work, blames it on a pre-existing condition, or pressures you not to file a claim, you should seek legal guidance immediately.
Workers’ compensation laws exist to protect employees, and an experienced attorney can step in to protect your rights and prevent employer retaliation.
- You’re Being Pressured to Return to Work Too Soon
Returning to work before you are medically ready can put your health and your claim at risk. If your employer or the insurance company is pushing you back to work despite your doctor’s recommendations, legal representation can help enforce proper medical restrictions.
Your lawyer can ensure your recovery comes first, not the insurance company’s bottom line.
- You Were Offered a Settlement You Don’t Understand
Insurance companies may offer a settlement that sounds reasonable but fails to cover future medical care or long-term disability. Once accepted, these settlements usually prevent you from seeking additional compensation later.
A workers’ comp attorney can review settlement offers, explain your options, and negotiate for a fair outcome that protects your future.
- Your Injury Involved Third-Party Negligence
Some workplace injuries involve parties other than your employer such as contractors, equipment manufacturers, or negligent drivers. In these cases, you may have the right to pursue a separate personal injury claim in addition to workers’ comp benefits.
A knowledgeable lawyer can identify all potential sources of compensation and ensure nothing is overlooked.
- You Feel Overwhelmed or Unsure About the Process
Workers’ compensation laws in Georgia are complex, and the claims process can be confusing and stressful, especially when you’re trying to recover from an injury. If you’re unsure what steps to take or feel the system is working against you, legal guidance can make all the difference.
Get Help From an Experienced Augusta Workers’ Comp Lawyer
You don’t have to face the workers’ compensation system alone. At Hollington Brown LLP, we advocate for injured workers throughout Augusta and the surrounding areas, helping them secure the benefits they are entitled to under Georgia law.
If you’ve been hurt on the job and are experiencing any of these warning signs, contact our office today to discuss your case and learn how we can help protect your rights and your future.
