Workers’ Compensation laws and rules in Georgia are frequently changed and updated. Some of the most recent legislative changes include an increase in the maximum temporary total disability benefit or an injured workers’ weekly benefit. Another change was made to the rules regarding light duty jobs and how long an employee is required to attempt an offered light duty position.
(1) Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-200(a)
For injuries occurring on or after July 1, 2013, a 400-week cap on medical treatment is placed on injuries/claims, except those designated “catastrophic” under O.C.G.A. §34-9-200.1(g).
(2) Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-203(c)(1)& (c)(2)
Payment of mileage expenses is reduced from 30 days to 15 days.
(3) Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-222
The interest rate on advances is reduced from 7% to 5%.
(4) Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-240(b)(1)&(b)(2)
If a light-duty job is offered under the 240 process, an employee is required to attempt the light-duty job for eight cumulative hours or one scheduled workday, whichever is greater. Failure to attempt a light-duty job for this minimum amount of time may result in the suspension of the employee’s income benefits.
(5) Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-261 & O.C.G.A. §34-9-262
For injuries occurring on or after July 1, 2013, the maximum TTD rate is raised from $500.00 per week to $525.00 per week. In addition, the maximum TPD rate is raised from $334.00 per week to $350.00 per week.
We encourage any injured worker to contact an attorney as soon as possible after an injury to assist in ensuring the employer and insurance companies follow these laws.
Call to discuss your workers’ compensation claim with Zack Hendon today at 770-284-3737.
