Your employer does not have to be at fault for the injury or the condition. In fact, even a worker whose own actions contributed to the incident may still receive benefits.
Job-related injuries
The main requirement for coverage is that the injury or health condition stems from your job. For example, an injury may be covered if it occurs in the course of your employment; similarly, a condition should arise from job-related activities.
Specifically, this includes injuries that happen while you are working. In Georgia, employment-sponsored activities such as company events or weekend retreats can also count the same as doing one’s ordinary job during normal employment hours.
Injuries that happen when you are off the premises as part of doing your job also count. Thus, if you suffer injuries in a car crash on your way home from work, you are likely not eligible for workers’ comp. If the same event occurs while you are making deliveries or visiting a client’s premises as part of your job, workers’ compensation benefits could apply.
Proving that a health condition is connected to your job
Generally, a work-related injury is one that happens at work. In the case of a condition that develops over time, it can be harder to link it specifically to one’s employment.
Common types of work-related conditions include repetitive motion injuries or diseases that develop as a result of exposure to certain materials. In such cases, it is important to document your symptoms and to see a doctor as soon as you can. Once you have a diagnosis, it is important to comply with the treatment plan; otherwise, you may not receive the full extent of the benefits you need.
