Posted on
Share on Facebook
Share on X
Share on LinkedIn

A workplace injury can threaten both your health and your paycheck – and what you do in the first days matters. Georgia workers’ compensation can cover your medical care and part of your lost wages regardless of who was at fault, but missing a step or a deadline can jeopardize your claim. Here are the first seven things to do if you’re hurt on the job in Georgia.

The first 7 steps after a work injury

  1. Report the injury to your employer immediately – and within 30 days (O.C.G.A. § 34-9-80). Do it in writing if you can.
  2. Get medical care. Ask your employer for the posted panel of physicians and choose a doctor from it.
  3. Tell the doctor it’s work-related and describe exactly how it happened.
  4. Document everything – how you were hurt, witnesses, and all medical visits and bills.
  5. Follow your treatment plan – missed appointments give the insurer a reason to dispute your claim.
  6. Keep records of missed work and lost pay.
  7. Talk to a workers’ comp lawyer if your claim is delayed, denied, or you’re being pressured.

Don’t miss these Georgia deadlines

Report your injury within 30 days, and generally file your claim with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation within one year of the injury (O.C.G.A. § 34-9-82). Miss these, and you can lose your right to benefits. If anything feels off, get advice early. See our Georgia workers’ compensation page for more.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to use my employer’s doctor?

Generally you must choose from your employer’s posted panel of physicians, but there are important exceptions, and you have some rights to change doctors. A lawyer can help you navigate the panel and protect your care.

What if my employer says not to file or that I’m not covered?

Don’t take that at face value. Most Georgia employers with 3+ employees must carry workers’ comp, and you shouldn’t be discouraged from filing. Talk to a lawyer if you’re being pressured.

How long do I have to report and file?

Report to your employer within 30 days (O.C.G.A. § 34-9-80) and generally file your claim within one year (O.C.G.A. § 34-9-82). Acting quickly protects your benefits.

Talk to a Georgia workers’ comp lawyer

If you were hurt on the job, The Delashmit Firm can help you protect your claim and get the benefits you’re owed. Call (770) 341-0559 for a free consultation – no fee unless we recover for you.