There are many different types of workplace accidents that may result in claims for short-term disability, long-term disability, and permanent partial disability, loss of limb, and even wrongful death fatalities. Given the complexities of the NC Workers' Compensation Laws, we can help determine whether or not you have grounds to file a workers' compensation claim.
How can workers’ compensation help me?
Workers’ compensation benefits vary depending on the details of your claim. The benefits can include coverage on:
- Medical expenses related to the accident, including mental health treatment, hospital bills, and prescriptions;
- A portion of lost wages when prevented from working;
- Vocational rehabilitation services; or
- Death benefits, if a family member died as a result of injuries that occurred on the job.
What kind of issues does workers’ compensation apply to?
Workers’ compensation applies to illnesses and injuries resulting from one’s workplace. In the case of illnesses, they must result from the conditions of an occupation (other than hearing loss), and they don’t include diseases that the general population is equally exposed to. Applicable illnesses can include carpal tunnel syndrome and chronic rotator cuff tears, as well as asbestosis and byssinosis.
Injuries that apply for workers’ compensation are primarily those due to an accident at the workplace, defined as an interruption or unusual event from the normal work routine. Injuries to the back or neck, however, do not require an “accident” definition to be compensated. For back or neck injuries, the injured person only needs to recall the specific time and place of the injury as the identified “specific trauma incident.”
There are often denials that occur citing a pre-existing condition. Even with pre-existing conditions, there can be benefits that you are due. We will explore any event that may have aggravated or accelerated an issue, and will help you fight to receive what you are entitled to.
All businesses in NC with three or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to provide benefits for employees who are injured at their job. An injured worker is entitled to workers’ compensation benefits without needing to prove that someone was a fault or negligent in the accident.
Do I need a lawyer to file a workers’ compensation claim?
While a lawyer is not necessary to file a claim, having a knowledgable attorney on your side can help ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to for an illness or injury suffered on the job. We are familiar with the complexities of the NC Workers’ Compensation Laws and will work hard to cover every detail of your case and how the event has impacted you. We will bring this understanding to the table as we work to make sure you receive fair compensation for the treatment and benefits you need.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation, and let us talk through the specifics of your situation and how we can help you get to where you need to be.
