Understanding Average Weekly Wage (AWW) in Atlanta
If you’ve been involved in an accident in Atlanta and are navigating the nuances of a personal injury case, you’ve likely encountered the term Average Weekly Wage (AWW). This critical metric is integral to determining compensation in various injury cases. Whether you’re dealing with a work-related injury, traffic accident, or another type of personal injury, understanding AWW can be pivotal in your case.
What is Average Weekly Wage (AWW)?
The Average Weekly Wage (AWW) represents the average earnings of an employee during a specified period prior to an injury. It’s used to calculate benefits such as temporary total disability (TTD), permanent partial disability (PPD), and other compensations for injured workers. This ensures that injured parties receive fair wage-replacement benefits.
How is AWW Calculated?
The method to calculate AWW may vary depending on the nature of employment and the specific state regulations. Common methods include:
- Salaried Employees: AWW is calculated based on the salary divided by the number of weeks worked.
- Hourly Employees: Total earnings for a given period are divided by the number of weeks worked.
- Variable Earnings: Employees with irregular earnings might have their AWW calculated based on earnings over a longer period to account for variations.
For residents of Atlanta and the state of Georgia, Georgia’s Department of Labor provides specific guidelines for calculating AWW to ensure fairness and consistency.
Relevant Laws for AWW in Georgia
Georgia statutes mandate that injured employees are entitled to a percentage of their AWW as benefits. According to GA Code § 34-9-260, the calculation should consider employees’ earnings during the 13 weeks prior to the injury.
Frequently Asked Questions about AWW in Atlanta
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the importance of AWW? | AWW is crucial for determining wage replacement benefits after a workplace injury, ensuring fair compensation. |
| How can an employee verify their AWW? | Employees can request a detailed wage statement from their employer and compare it with the state’s guidelines. |
| Can AWW change over time? | AWW is fixed based on pre-injury earnings but can be reviewed if there are significant errors or changes in work circumstances. |
| Does AWW affect all types of injury claims? | AWW typically affects workers’ compensation claims but can also influence personal injury settlements involving lost wages. |
Local Resources in Atlanta for AWW Concerns
| Resource | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Georgia State Government | Access state resources and contact information for citizen services. |
| Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation | Call 404-656-3875 for assistance regarding workers’ compensation claims. |
| Georgia Workers’ Compensation Division | Information and support for workers’ compensation issues. |
| City of Atlanta | Contact for local city services and support. |
Why Choose Jamie Ballard As Your Personal Injury Lawyer?
Navigating the intricacies of personal injury claims, especially when factoring in AWW, can be challenging. Jamie Ballard, a top Atlanta personal injury lawyer, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to each case. With a proven track record in obtaining fair compensation for clients, Jamie’s expertise ensures that you are well-represented and your rights protected.
Located at 3715 Northside Pkwy NW Building 100 – Suite 500, Atlanta, GA 30327, you can reach Jamie Ballard at 404-301-1687 or visit JamieBallardLaw.com for more information. Trust Jamie Ballard to provide compassionate and expert legal support tailored to your needs.
