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Getting a workers’ comp settlement in Atlanta can be a difficult process, but with the right knowledge and resources it is possible. The key to success is understanding the laws of Georgia and how they apply to your case. In this article, we will discuss some of the ways that you can get your workers’ comp settlement and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
How early will workers’ comp cases settles in Atlanta?
It is difficult to determine how early a workers’ compensation case will settle in Atlanta, as the timing of settlements can depend on a variety of factors such as:
- The severity of the injury
- The extent of the disability
- The amount of medical treatment required
In some cases, workers’ compensation cases may be resolved quickly, while in others, they may take longer to resolve. The average settlement time for a case of workers’ comp is 12-18 months and can take up to several years. The primary cause of delay in the settlement is the administrative process, which can be lengthy and complicated.
What is the time period of the settlement process in Atlanta?
Depending on the specifics of your case and whether you have legal representation, the full settlement process—from submitting your claim to receiving the money—can take between 12 and 18 months.
The process usually takes between 12 and 14 months if you do not have a lawyer, do not have a permanent disability, and do not negotiate your payment. The settlement process normally takes 17–18 months when a lawyer is involved. It may take 20% longer to settle if you and your attorney negotiate a workers’ compensation deal, but the result will likely be better.
Factors That Can Affect the Worker Compensation Settlement Timeline in Atlanta
Workers comp settlement timeline is a complicated process that can be affected by factors such as the number of claims, the size of the company, and its location. It can also include:
- The type of injury sustained by the employee
- The severity of that injury
- The extent of treatment required by the employer
- Whether you will fully recover from the injury
- Whether you hire a lawyer to assist you
- Whether you need to appeal the decision
- Whether or not there is a pre-existing condition that affects how quickly a claim will be resolved
- If you wish to bargain or just accept the money the insurance provider gives (which you should never do without first seeing a lawyer)
Different Types of Settlements in Atlanta
Standard settlements (also known as Liability Stipulations) and No-Liability Stipulations are the two settlement forms that apply to workers’ compensation disputes in Atlanta.
- Liability Stipulations
A basic settlement will be drafted once both parties concur that the claim is valid and that the employer/insurer is responsible.
In certain situations, it has been accepted by both parties that the worker is entitled to benefits and that the injury qualifies for workers’ compensation payments. The specifics of the benefits are then outlined in the “liability stipulation” which is presented to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation (SBWC).
You can also read about worker’s compensation claim checklist here to strengthen your case further.
- No-Liability Stipulations
An agreement that states that the parties do not agree on whether an injury is compensable but that the employer will still pay the employee a certain amount of compensation nonetheless is known as a no-liability stipulation.
An agreement to disagree is reached. It is then completed, signed, and submitted to the SBWC.
Factors That Can Delay Your Workers' Compensation Settlement in Atlanta
Receiving a workers comp settlement in Atlanta can be a long and arduous process. Unfortunately, there are certain factors that can delay the settlement process and make it even more difficult. These factors include:
Disputes over the cause of the injury:
If there is disagreement over whether the injury was caused by the employee’s work duties or by some other factor, it may take longer to resolve the case.
Lack of documentation:
It is important to provide complete and accurate documentation in support of your workers’ compensation claim. If there are gaps in the documentation, it can delay the settlement process.
Complex medical issues:
If the injury is severe or involves complex medical issues, it may take longer to determine the extent of the injury and the appropriate level of benefits.
Difficulties in reaching a settlement agreement:
If the employee and the employer or their insurance company are unable to agree on the terms of a settlement, it can delay the resolution of the case.
How We Can Help You To Get A Workers Comp Settlement
It is important to hire a lawyer and understand how they can be of help to best settle your case. A lawyer who specializes in workers’ compensation in Atlanta can help you in following different ways:
Can Speed Up Your Case
Insurance firms are infamous for adopting a cold attitude. They can argue that the injury was caused by a pre-existing condition and can delay your case. A knowledgeable lawyer can handle the settlement procedure while ensuring your employer and the insurance provider knows that you are aware of your rights.
We Can Come Up With Multiple Evidences
You will require different sorts of evidence to demonstrate the severity of your medical condition. Your medical bills and records are examples of medical proof. Your lawyer may ask for records that detail the severity of your injuries, such as copies of scans or test results. They can also ask an expert witness to testify, which is considered professional evidence.
We Can Negotiate The Best Settlement For You
An ordinary person is unaware of what constitutes a fair settlement for a health issue that can have long-term effects on their capacity to work. An expert lawyer will be aware of the typical settlement for injuries similar to yours. Your employer can be liable for paying back wages and benefits if your lawsuit has dragged on for a while. A lawyer can assist you in defending yourself in the face of threatening insurance company officials who want to make the least amount of payout feasible.
Can Help You With An Appeal
Your confidence may be shaken by a claim denial, and you might start to wonder if you actually have a claim for compensation. You can better grasp your rights and the grounds for the claim denial with the help of a atlanta workers comp attorney. The lawyer will review every aspect of how your case has developed up to this point and devise a strategy to reverse the refusal.
Evaluate Third-Party Claims
For a work-related accident, your employer might not be the only party who owes you money. If a person, piece of machinery, or manufacturer unaffiliated with your business was at fault, third-party personal injury claims may also be made. Your lawyer assists you in determining all viable strategies for developing a claim that enables you to obtain the highest amount of accident-related compensation
Conclusion
Getting a workers’ comp settlement can be a complex process. By hiring the right lawyer, you can speed up your process and can also learn different ways to benefit the most. Only an expert will know how to negotiate and bargain a claim.
This article has covered different factors that affect your case and ways an Atlanta lawyer can be of help. You can also contact us for a free consultation to understand your case the best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I negotiate the terms of my workers' compensation settlement in Atlanta?
Yes, you can negotiate the terms of your workers’ compensation settlement in Atlanta. Your attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement that meets your needs and addresses any ongoing medical or financial issues you may have as a result of your work injury.
What if my employer or their insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement in Atlanta?
If your employer or their insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, you may be able to file a dispute with the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation. An administrative law judge will then review your case and issue a decision on the appropriate settlement amount.
Can I appeal the decision of the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation?
Yes, you can appeal the decision of the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation if you disagree with the ruling. You will need to file an appeal with the Appellate Division of the State Board within 30 days of the decision.
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