Workers’ compensation permits you to collect certain benefits if you become ill or injured on the job. However, new changes to the rules in Georgia will apply to all claims for accidents that took place on July 1, 2023, and after.
These changes may impact your claims, which is why it’s important to understand what is different now.
TTD and TPD Max Rates
For temporary total disability (TTD) and temporary partial disability (TPD), the max rates have increased for income benefits. This means that now the maximum you can collect each week for TTD is $800 and for TPD, the maximum is $533. If you lost your spouse and you are the sole beneficiary, the maximum you can receive in death benefits is $320,000.
Death Benefits for Unmarried Dependents
Eligibility has now been clarified and expanded for death benefits to unmarried dependents. Those who lived with a person whose life was tragically cut short by a work accident may qualify for death benefits if they provided economic support such as monetary support, housing, or food. It is required that they show proof that they lived with each other for three months or longer to receive these benefits.
Death benefits are a difficult subject to approach since there are situations where dependents who exclusively received board and lodging will not qualify. As you grapple with the loss of your loved one, it is wise to speak with an attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation to learn more about the benefits you may be eligible to receive.
Medical Mileage Increase
Traditionally, workers’ compensation benefits provide compensation for mileage reimbursement when traveling to receive medical services. This reimbursement was previously set at $0.40 per mile and has now increased to $0.45 cents per mile.
Medical Records Must Be Provided to All Parties
When claims are non-catastrophic in nature and medical case managers are used voluntarily, they must provide copies of all medical records. This includes medical reports, test results, office notes, and any other written documents that were received from the claimant’s physician treating the injuries. Copies must go to all involved parties and their attorneys.
Additional Fees for Peer Review
For years, employers, insurers, and physicians have been able to file a request for a peer review through a peer review organization when there is a dispute over charges that aren’t in the fee schedule. The new changes to the laws now require that when an authorized peer review organization determines that an additional fee should be charged to the medical provider, the employer or insurer must pay this fee. They must also pay the fee for the peer review that the medical provider initially paid.
How Do The Workers’ Comp Law Changes Affect You?
Workers’ compensation laws can be confusing, especially when you have serious injuries. The new changes have opened the door for more benefits for injured workers, but they still may make you unsure of what applies to you.
If you are wondering how these new changes in workers’ compensation will affect you and your claim, visit hansfordlawfirm.com.
