Georgia Workers’ Compensation for Injured Automotive Workers

There are more than 200 automotive-related businesses located in Georgia, contributing more than $3 billion to the economy of the state. The automotive industry in Georgia began in 1909 when the first car was assembled in the state.

Some of the biggest auto manufacturers companies that operate in Georgia include the Blue Bird Corporation, General Motors, Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Mercedes-Benz USA, Porsche Cars North America and ZF Gainesville LLC.

Although the auto industry supports the state economy significantly, it’s also an industry fraught with dangers. Each year, many automotive workers are injured while performing their job duties.

Many automotive companies provide on-site medical treatment. When an employee is injured, they are sent to the company nurse who sometimes fails to identify an injury and sends them back to the assembly line.

Injured employees should ensure that a workers’ compensation report be filed, regardless of how minor the injury seems to the nurse.

If possible, take notes or record the conversation with the nurse to document your complaint. In addition, under Georgia law, companies must post a list of at least 6 doctors authorized to treat on-the-job injuries. This list must be posted in a common work area, such as a break room or lobby, where it is visible to all employees.

When you are injured on the job, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under Georgia law. You are entitled to lost wages and payment for your medical costs.

Your lost wages are determined by the rate of pay you received when you were injured.

Depending on how severe your injury is, you may be eligible for temporary total or partial benefits or for permanent partial disability benefits.

The type of benefit you receive will depend on whether you will be able to return to work eventually or whether you will no longer be able to work at all.