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How Georgia workers’ comp handles injuries that develop over time

On Behalf of | May 13, 2025 | Work Injuries |

Not all work injuries happen suddenly. Some build up slowly from repeated actions or long-term exposure to certain conditions. Georgia’s workers’ compensation system can cover these injuries, but the process works a bit differently than it does for sudden accidents.

What counts as a gradual injury

Injuries that develop over time usually come from doing the same task again and again. Common examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain from heavy lifting, and hearing loss from loud work environments. Over time, the body wears down, and symptoms get worse. Even though these injuries don’t come from one big event, they can still affect a person’s ability to work and earn money.

Georgia’s workers’ compensation law recognizes these kinds of injuries. To qualify for benefits, a worker must prove that the injury came from the job, which usually means showing that the tasks at work caused or worsened the condition. A doctor’s report can help explain how the injury happened and how it relates to the worker’s job.

How to report and start a claim

Workers with gradual injuries must report them to their employer as soon as they notice a problem. In Georgia, injured workers have 30 days to report the injury after they become aware of it. Waiting too long could lead to a denied claim. After reporting the injury, the worker can file a workers’ compensation claim to start the process of getting medical care and wage benefits.

The date of injury can be tricky in these cases. Instead of one exact day, the injury date often becomes the day the worker first missed work or saw a doctor for the problem. Once the claim begins, workers may receive coverage for doctor visits, therapy, medication, and partial pay if they can’t work.

Repetitive injuries can sneak up on a person, but Georgia’s workers’ comp system doesn’t ignore them. Workers who take prompt action and follow the right steps can still get help, even if their injuries take years to develop.