If you’re injured on the job, the financial strain that comes from either needing medical treatment or being unable to work for an extended period of time can cause unnecessary stress.  Fortunately, in North Carolina, workers’ compensation benefits are designed to provide financial assistance to employees who are injured on the job.

Our firm helps employees who have been injured on the job to heal financially from the unexpected. There are several basic items you need to know before signing any documents presented to you, and you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney before making any decisions. We have several resources available online to help you understand various workers’ compensation scenarios and processes, and we are ready to go to work on your behalf (contact us here).

In the meantime, there are some basic definitions and processes you should know about how workers’ compensation claims are handled in North Carolina. 

What Are Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to assist employees who suffer injuries or illnesses arising from their employment. In North Carolina, these benefits typically cover medical expenses, wage replacement, and rehabilitation costs incurred due to a work-related incident. The goal is to provide support to the injured worker while maintaining the employer’s accountability for maintaining a safe working environment.

What Injuries and Illnesses Do Workers’ Compensation Benefits Cover?

Workers’ compensation benefits in North Carolina apply to a wide range of injuries and illnesses, including:

• Accidents and Injuries: Coverage extends to injuries resulting from workplace accidents or work-related activities.
• Occupational Diseases: Conditions or illnesses that develop due to prolonged exposure to workplace hazards are covered. This can include respiratory issues, repetitive stress injuries, or other occupational diseases.
• Aggravation of Pre-existing Conditions: If a pre-existing condition is aggravated or worsened due to work activities, the resulting medical costs may be covered.

It’s important to note that not every injury or illness is covered by workers’ compensation benefits, so it’s always best to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can guide you through your claim.

How the Claims Process Works

If you’re injured on the job, it’s your responsibility to inform your employer of the injury or illness, as well as to file a workers’ compensation claim. North Carolina State law requires a workers’ compensation claim to be filed within two years of the date of the injury. 

Report the Injury: You are expected to notify your employer immediately after sustaining a work-related injury, within no longer than 30 days of the injury. This can be done either through written notice to your supervisor or by submitting a Form 18 to the North Carolina Industrial Commission and then giving a copy of the form to your employer. It’s important to remember that failure to report within a reasonable time might impact your ability to claim benefits.

Your employer will then have 14 days to investigate and respond to your claim, with either an acceptance, denial, or request for an extension to the 14-day notice period to further review your claim. Your employer’s response will include one of three forms:

• Form 60 indicates that your employer has accepted your claim and will begin paying your workers’ compensation benefits wage loss and medical treatment costs.
• Form 63 indicates that your employer has agreed to begin provisionally paying your workers’ compensation benefits, but reserves the right to terminate your benefits within a certain amount of time if they determine that you are ineligible for workers’ compensation after further investigation.
• Form 61 indicates that your employer has denied your claim for workers’ compensation. The reasons for their denial will be outlined in the form.

If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. Tip: An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can assist you in presenting your case before the Industrial Commission.

Let SeiferFlatow Guide You Through the Process

Navigating the intricacies of a workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with recovery from an injury or illness. At SeiferFlatow, our experienced legal team understands North Carolina workers’ compensation laws and is committed to ensuring you receive the full benefits you deserve. If you’re facing challenges with your claim or need assistance in understanding your rights, we’re here to help.

Don’t navigate the process alone; contact SeiferFlatow today for legal guidance tailored to your specific situation, and let us guide you toward a fair and just resolution.