Transportation and tourism are two of the biggest industries in Albany, GA. They are also both full of independent contractors. Being classified as an independent contractor can present significant challenges when seeking compensation after a workplace injury. Unlike employees who are typically covered by workers’ compensation insurance, independent contractors often find themselves navigating a complex landscape to secure the financial support they need. Without the protections afforded to employees, they may face difficulties in obtaining reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from workplace accidents.
At Bader Scott Injury Lawyers, we understand the unique hurdles independent contractors face in these situations. Our team advocates for the rights of independent contractors, helping them explore legal avenues to pursue compensation. If you or someone you know has been injured while working as an independent contractor, our Albany workers’ compensation lawyers are here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Call us today for a free consultation.
Who Is Considered an Independent Contractor in Albany?
In Georgia, an independent contractor is a person who is hired only to perform specific tasks. They are not employees. This distinction is crucial as independent contractors have different legal rights and responsibilities compared to employees. They typically have more autonomy over how and when they complete their work, use their own tools and resources, and often work for multiple clients or businesses simultaneously.
It also means that they are typically not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
Key characteristics of independent contractors in Georgia include their ability to set their own rates, manage their own schedules, and often maintain control over the methods and means of accomplishing their tasks.
The classification of a worker as an independent contractor in Georgia hinges on several factors, including the level of control the hiring entity exerts over the work, the nature of the relationship, and how the work is integrated into the hiring entity’s business operations.
Our Albany personal injury lawyer are here to help you on this matter. Call us now for a free consultation.
Challenges Independent Contractors Face After a Workplace Injury
Independent contractors are typically not eligible to recover workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. It typically covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs, regardless of fault. However, independent contractors fall outside the purview of this protection due to their distinct legal status.
Independent contractors are considered self-employed and typically enter into agreements to complete specific tasks or projects. They retain control over how, when, and where they work, which differentiates them from employees who are under the direct control and supervision of an employer. This autonomy, while advantageous in many respects, also means they do not qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
However, independent contractors who suffer workplace injuries are not without recourse. They may file a personal injury lawsuit against the employer or a third party whose negligence caused the injury. This legal avenue can potentially provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
For a free legal consultation with a independent contractors lawyer serving Albany, call (404) 888-8888
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit for a Workplace Injury in Albany
There are a few things to consider when filing an injury or third-party claim after a workplace accident.
You Must Prove Negligence
To succeed in a personal injury lawsuit, you must prove that your employer or a third party was negligent. This involves demonstrating that they owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injury and damages as a result. For example, if a construction site lacks proper safety measures and an independent contractor gets injured, they may have grounds for a personal injury claim.
You Could Hold Your Employer Liable
As we stated above, independent contractors are not covered by workers’ comp insurance. However, this means that they can sue their employer if their negligence caused or contributed to their injury—something employees are unable to do.
Our Albany independent contractor workers’ compensation lawyers can determine whether you can hold your employer liable. In some cases, our team may determine that your employer misclassified you as an independent contractor.
You Could Hold a Third Party Liable
In some situations, the injury might be caused by a third party, such as another subcontractor, a product manufacturer, or a property owner. Independent contractors can pursue personal injury claims against these third parties.
For instance, if faulty machinery caused your injury, you could hold the manufacturer of the machinery liable.
Our team can help you identify any responsible third parties and hold them liable on your behalf. We have helped over 10,000 injured Georgians since opening our doors, so we know how to handle these cases.
A Personal Injury Claim or Lawsuit Could Take Longer Than Getting Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Personal injury lawsuits can be complex and lengthy, requiring thorough investigation, expert testimony, and extensive documentation. Our team will handle every aspect of this process on your behalf.
Your Own Negligence Could Affect What You Recover
Georgia is a modified comparative negligence state, which means that you can be partially at fault for your injury. However, it’s important to note that your percentage of fault will decrease what you are able to recover.
The insurance company may attempt to blame you for the accident that caused your injury. However, Seth Bader started his career representing insurance companies so he knows how to defend against any tactics they may use.
Albany Independent Contractors Lawyer Near Me (404) 888-8888
Get Help from Our Independent Contractor Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
While independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, they still have viable options for seeking compensation after a workplace injury. By filing a personal injury lawsuit against the employer or a negligent third party, independent contractors can potentially recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This process, however, involves navigating complex legal terrain and proving negligence.
At Bader Scott Injury Lawyers, we understand the unique challenges faced by independent contractors injured on the job. Our experienced Albany independent contractor workers’ compensation lawyer is dedicated to helping you explore all available options and build a strong case to secure the compensation you deserve. We are committed to providing personalized support and guidance every step of the way.
If you or someone you know has been injured while working as an independent contractor, contact Bader Scott Injury Lawyers today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Call or text (404) 888-8888 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form