When a workplace accident occurs, the Workers’ Compensation Law is responsible for supporting the injured worker who is unable to work. However, some workplace accidents are fatal. Many jobs performed by hundreds of people are considered high-risk. People who work at heights, underwater, in mines, handling high-voltage cables, or even working in a construction company can be considered quite dangerous.
Although most companies take appropriate measures to prevent workplace accidents, when they occur and the worker does not survive, the Workers’ Compensation Law focuses on compensating the family members and dependents of the deceased worker by offering assistance and support during such a difficult time.
At Cruz & Associates, our workers’ compensation death attorneys understand how difficult it is to experience the sudden death of a loved one while on the job. We have the necessary legal and psychological training and preparation to handle such painful cases, so we focus on managing workers’ compensation claims and pursuing every opportunity for compensation for family members.
We know that money will never replace a loved one, but death compensation is one of the strongest forms of retribution and justice we can offer—it’s the financial security you so desperately need during such a painful time.
Our Atlanta workers’ compensation attorneys at Cruz & Associates can provide a free initial consultation if your family suffered fatal injuries while working in a warehouse, lost a limb that led to death, or suffered a fatal brain injury.
How do workplace death claims benefits work?
Georgia’s workers’ compensation laws determine who qualifies as «dependents» of a worker killed in a work-related accident . Spouses are typically eligible as long as their monthly income does not exceed a certain threshold. Children, stepchildren, and other minor dependents often receive this compensation as well; Even an adult dependent with a special medical condition or who is pursuing higher education may receive it.
In the state of Georgia, workers’ compensation death benefits are available. These benefits include payment of medical and funeral expenses, as well as weekly benefits for the deceased’s dependents. Funeral expenses may not exceed $7,500, and medical expenses resulting from the deceased employee’s final illness or injury will be fully covered.
{Also read: What to Do in Case of Wrongful Death} Link Button
How much should the compensation payment for death at work be?
Regarding weekly benefit payments for dependents, it should be noted that, although they are equivalent to two-thirds of the deceased employee’s approximate weekly wage, the amount received can vary on a case-by-case basis. Some states may allow this amount or slightly more, depending on the socioeconomic status of the dependents, the amount of income earned by the deceased employee, and other factors related to their death.
This type of claim can be filed by any person or family member who was fully or partially dependent on the deceased, and depending on their level of dependency, they may receive full benefits. It is important for families seeking to file a claim to understand that the workers’ compensation system works differently in each case, so results may vary as determined by the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.
When is it time to hire a workers’ compensation attorney for a work-related death?
Even if family members have received workers’ compensation, the benefits may not be sufficient. Factors such as employer negligence and lack of liability, as well as malicious practices by insurance companies, can be decisive in ensuring that all dependents receive fairer compensation in the event of the death of a loved one.
In such a difficult circumstance, losing a loved one and facing the obstacles, rejections, or excessive bureaucracy of the compensation system can make the experience much more difficult. At Cruz & Associates, we specialize in difficult cases like the death of a worker. We are here to support you! Contact us and receive all the advice you need to bring your case to justice.
