How long will you receive workers’ compensation benefits?

If you are a loved one is injured in the workplace, you probably have questions. Will your savings and benefits be enough to support you? Will you be able to afford medical care? How long will benefits last?

Workers compensation in Georgia will generally be paid for up to 400 weeks after your injury, but the benefits you receive will depend on the specifics of your injury.

Has your injury left you without the use of one or more parts of your body?

If you temporarily lose the use of one of your body parts as a part of your injury but will fully recover with time, you could receive temporary partial disability benefits for up to 350 weeks.

If your injury results in the permanent loss of a body part, Georgia law determines how long you will receive benefits based on the body part you have lost. Examples include:

• Arm or leg—225 weeks
• Hand—160 weeks
• Foot—135 weeks
• Fingers or thumb—25 to 40 weeks, depending on which finger was lost
• Toes—20 to 30 weeks

You can also receive benefits for loss of your hearing (75 to 150 weeks) or sight (150 weeks).

Have injuries left you permanently and totally disabled?

If catastrophic injuries leave you permanently unable to work, you could receive unlimited benefits with no end date. These catastrophic injuries can include damage to the brain, spine and neck.

An attorney can help you determine whether your workers’ compensation benefits will be enough to meet your needs. With the help of a lawyer, you can explore your options and work to get the support you need after a workplace accident.