Is the Employer or Employee Responsible for a Work Injury?

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As workers’ compensation attorneys, one of the questions we get asked most frequently is who is responsible for paying for a work injury. Is the employee responsible for paying their own doctor bills? How will their living expenses get paid if their injury prevents them from returning to work? Below is a brief overview addressing liability for a work accident.

In Georgia, employers with three or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. When employees are injured on the job, this policy provides medical, rehabilitation, and income benefits for a certain length of time depending on the nature and severity of the injury. If will also provide benefits to an employee’s dependents in the event of a fatal accident.

While workers’ compensation covers a wide variety of injuries and workers are not required to prove that their injury was the fault of their employer, there are some scenarios in which an employee may be denied coverage and be responsible for their own bills. Such instances may include:

  • The employee was injured because he or she was engaging in horseplay
  • The employee was injured while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • The employee ignored workplace safety regulations

However, even if your own carelessness contributed to your injury, you may still be eligible for compensation. Never assume you can’t be compensated – consult with a qualified attorney who can review your case and decide for you!

If you have been injured and are unable to work, or if you have had your workers’ compensation claim denied, we invite you to contact Amanda Hall Injury Law as soon as possible to speak with a Woodstock workers’ compensation attorney. Our team is committed to helping clients obtain all of the benefits they are entitled to after a serious accident. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about your options!