Suffering a serious injury at work can be life-changing, especially when it requires surgery or results in permanent disability. In Georgia, injured workers are protected under the Workers’ Compensation Act, which provides important benefits and legal rights. However, understanding those rights and making sure they’re fully upheld can feel overwhelming during an already stressful time. At Poirier Law, we’re here to guide you through the process with clarity, compassion, and experienced legal support.

In this blog, we’ll break down the types of serious workplace injuries and help you understand your rights under Georgia law.

Serious Workplace Injuries with Long-Term Impact

These injuries often involve medical procedures, long-term rehabilitation, and life adjustments that impact both your ability to work and your quality of life. Common examples include:

• Severe back or spinal injuries 
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) 
• Fractures requiring surgical repair 
• Severe burns or crush injuries 
• Amputations or loss of limb function 
• Joint injuries requiring replacement (e.g., knees or shoulders) 

These injuries often involve complex medical procedures, long-term rehabilitation, and life adjustments that impact both your ability to work and your quality of life.

Your Rights Under Georgia Workers’ Compensation Law

Georgia law provides several important benefits for workers seriously injured on the job:

1. Medical Treatment

Your employer (through their insurance) must cover all reasonable and necessary medical care related to your injury, including surgeries, physical therapy, prescriptions, and follow-up visits.

2. Income Benefits

If you’re unable to work during recovery, you may be entitled to weekly Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits, typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a state-set maximum.

If you’re able to return to work but only in a limited capacity, Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits may apply.

3. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

When an injury results in a permanent loss of function to a body part, you may receive PPD benefits based on a doctor’s impairment rating and a set schedule under Georgia law.

Why Legal Guidance Matters After a Serious Injury

Serious workplace injuries often lead to disputes with insurance companies, over the necessity of surgery, the extent of disability, or the compensation you deserve. That’s why having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side can make all the difference.

At Poirier Law, we understand that your journey is about more than just getting back to work—it’s about navigating a new chapter that includes recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration. We’re here to guide you through the complex Georgia workers’ compensation process with clarity, compassion, and a focus on your long-term well-being.

When you work with Poirier Law, you can count on us to:

• Ensure you receive proper medical care, including second opinions when necessary 
• Fight for full and fair compensation, including benefits for permanent impairments 
• Handle communication with insurers so you can focus on healing 
• Advocate for your rights if your claim is denied or delayed 

You shouldn’t have to face this battle alone, especially while recovering from a serious injury. If you or a loved one has suffered a workplace injury in Georgia, that required surgery or led to a permanent disability, contact Poirier Law today! We will walk you through your rights, explain your options, and fight to protect your future, every step of the way.