When a workplace injury renders you unable to work, you miss the earnings needed to provide for your family and pay for day-to-day expenses. You shouldn’t have to fight with an insurance company to recover these damages.
If you are injured on the job in Charlotte, North Carolina, you are entitled to lost wages. At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, our Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyers can help you file a workers’ compensation claim and understand your rights and options. They can fight for the full benefits that you are entitled to.
North Carolina’s Workers’ Compensation System
Workers’ compensation is a system of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. Benefits can include medical expenses, income replacement, and death benefits. North Carolina employers with three or more regular employees must obtain workers’ compensation insurance to protect themselves and their employees in case of an accident.
What to Do After a Work Injury in Charlotte, North Carolina
If you have been injured on the job, you need to report the injury to your employer and they should direct you to a medical provider. However, if your injury is severe, seek medical attention right away. Once you have seen a doctor, you should contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the Worker’s Compensation system and ensure that you get the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Filing Workers’ Compensation Claims in Charlotte, North Carolina
An injured worker files a claim with the North Carolina Industrial Commission and with the insurance company that provides workers’ compensation coverage to your employer to obtain benefits. At the outset, it is the insurance company that decides to accept or deny your claim. If your claim is approved, you may be eligible for several benefits, including lost wages.
What is Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
In general, workers’ compensation should cover any injury by accident or illness caused by your job. This can include injuries at work and illnesses that result from exposure to hazardous materials or conditions.
Wage Replacement Benefits Covered by Workers’ Compensation in North Carolina
You may be eligible for indemnity benefits if you cannot work due to a work-related injury. These benefits typically replace two-thirds of your lost wages.
Temporary Total Disability Benefits
If you are entirely unable to work due to your injuries, you may be eligible for temporary total disability benefits. The amount of these benefits is based on your average weekly wage, and they are typically paid weekly.
Temporary Partial Disability Benefits
If you can return to work but cannot earn your full wages, you may be eligible for temporary partial disability benefits. These benefits are based on the difference between your pre-injury wage and your current wage. These benefits are typically paid on a bi-weekly basis.
Permanent Partial Disability Benefits
If you have suffered a permanent injury and a doctor has assigned a permanent impairment rating, you may be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits. These benefits are paid out in a lump sum and are based on the severity of your injuries as determined by a doctor.
Other Benefits Available Under Workers’ Compensation in Charlotte, North Carolina
In addition to wage replacement benefits, you may also be eligible for other benefits, such as medical expenses and vocational rehabilitation.
Medical Benefits
If you are injured on the job, you may be entitled to have your medical expenses covered by workers’ compensation. This includes the cost of doctor’s visits, hospital stays, prescription medication, and more.
Death Benefits
If you are killed on the job, your surviving family members may be eligible for death benefits. These benefits can help to cover funeral and burial expenses.
Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits
If you cannot return to your pre-injury job, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation. This benefit can help you retrain for a new job or learn new skills.
Do I Have to Pay Taxes on Workers’ Compensation?
In most cases, workers’ compensation benefits are not taxable. However, there are some exceptions, so you should check with your accountant or tax advisor to be sure.
How Long Do Workers’ Compensation Benefits Last?
The length of time you receive workers’ compensation benefits will depend on the severity of your injuries and your ability to return to work. In general, temporary disability benefits will last until you reach maximum medical improvement.
What Happens if My Claim is Denied?
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you have the right to request a hearing before a Deputy Commissioner, and to participate in the hearing process. The compensability of your claim will then be determined by the Deputy Commissioner.
Contact an Experienced Charlotte Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today
You deserve to get the full benefits that you are entitled to under the North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act. If you have been injured at work, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced attorney. At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, we cover workers’ compensation and personal injury claims. We will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery and get back to work as soon as possible.
