If you have been injured on the job, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible. Workers’ compensation laws are complex, and it can be difficult to get the benefits you deserve without an experienced lawyer on your side.
At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor in Charlotte, we value the attorney-client relationship and will do everything to protect your rights when you file a workers’ comp claim.
What is Workers’ Compensation in Charlotte, North Carolina?
Workers’ compensation is a system of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. Workers’ compensation laws vary from state to state, but these laws generally require employers to provide coverage through an insurance company for their employees’ medical expenses and lost wages. In North Carolina, workers’ compensation is mandatory for all employers.
What to Do After a Work Injury in Charlotte
If you have been injured on the job, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Once a doctor has seen you, you should notify your employer in writing of your injury. You should then file a claim with the North Carolina Industrial Commission. This claim must be filed within two years of your injury.
The Commission will investigate your claim and determine whether or not you are eligible for benefits. If your claim is approved, you will receive compensation for your medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.
How Do I Know If My On-the-Job Injury Is Covered?
Generally, any injury or illness caused by your job or occurred while you were working is covered by workers’ compensation. This includes injuries resulting from a single event, such as a fall from a ladder, and injuries that develop over time, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. You should consult with a Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyer to discuss whether your particular injury is covered.
When to Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Charlotte
Injured workers should consider hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer if:
- Your employer denies your claim
- Your benefits are denied or cut off
- You are not receiving the full amount of benefits you are entitled to
- You need help filing an appeal
A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the complex workers’ compensation system and ensure that you get the benefits you deserve. When choosing a lawyer, it is important to find someone who has experience handling workers’ compensation claims in North Carolina. You should also make sure that the lawyer you choose is a good fit for you and your case.
Who Can File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Charlotte?
In general, any employee who is injured or becomes ill due to their job can file a workers’ compensation claim. This includes injuries that occur at work and illnesses caused by exposure to hazardous conditions at work. If you are not sure whether or not you are eligible to file a claim, you should speak to a workers’ compensation lawyer.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Charlotte Workers’ Comp Attorney?
There are many benefits to hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer in Charlotte. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex workers’ compensation system, file your claim, and appeal a denial of benefits. A lawyer can also help you get the full amount of benefits you are entitled to. In addition, a lawyer can protect your rights if your employer tries to retaliate against you for filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Workers’ Compensation Hearings
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you have the right to a hearing before the North Carolina Industrial Commission. You and your lawyer will present evidence to support your claim at this hearing. The Commission will then decide whether or not to award benefits.
What is Covered by Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Charlotte?
In Charlotte, workers’ comp benefits can help you pay for your medical bills and lost wages. If you cannot work because of your injury or illness, you may be eligible for temporary disability benefits. You may also qualify for permanent disability benefits if your job-related injury or illness causes a long-term or permanent impairment.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Workers’ compensation in Charlotte will cover the cost of vocational rehabilitation if you cannot return to your previous job because of your injury. Vocational rehabilitation can help you learn new skills and find a suitable job for your abilities.
Medical Expenses
Workers’ compensation in Charlotte will also cover the cost of any medical treatment you need due to your injury. This includes the cost of doctor’s visits, surgeries, and hospital stays. Workers’ compensation will also cover the cost if you need prescription medication.
Lost Wages
If you cannot work because of your injury, workers’ compensation will provide you with benefits to help replace a portion of your lost wages. The amount of benefits you receive will depend on the severity of your injury and how long you are unable to work.
Permanent Disability
If you suffer a permanent disability due to your injury, workers’ compensation will provide you with benefits to help you adjust to your new life. Permanent disability benefits can help you pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and vocational rehabilitation.
Death Benefits
If you are killed due to your job, workers’ compensation will provide benefits to your surviving family members. Death benefits can help pay for funeral expenses and replace some of the income your family has lost.
Can I File a Lawsuit Over My Job-Related Injuries?
In most cases, you cannot file a lawsuit against your employer for job-related injuries. Workers’ compensation is designed to be the exclusive remedy for workplace injuries. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. You should consult with a Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyer to discuss whether you may be able to file a lawsuit.
How Much Does a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Cost?
Workers’ compensation lawyers in Charlotte work on a contingency fee basis, which means they do not charge any upfront fees and only receive a payment if they win your case. The amount of contingency fee will vary depending on the lawyer you choose, but it is typically a percentage of the benefits you are awarded.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
In North Carolina, you have two years from your injury to file a workers’ compensation claim. If you do not file within this time period, you will be barred from receiving benefits.
Can I Be Fired or Laid Off For Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim in Charlotte?
No. It is illegal for your employer to fire you or lay you off because you have filed a workers’ compensation claim. If your employer does take such action, you may be entitled to reinstatement and back pay. You should consult with a Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyer to discuss your legal options if you believe your employer has retaliated against you.
What Injuries Are Covered By Workers’ Compensation?
Generally, any injury or illness caused by your job or occurred while you were working is covered by workers’ compensation. This includes injuries resulting from a single event, such as a fall from a ladder, and injuries that develop over time, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Some of the most common workplace injuries covered by workers’ compensation include:
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Lifting injuries
- Repetitive motion injuries
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Head injuries
What If I Was Partially Responsible For My Workplace Injury?
In North Carolina, an injured worker is still eligible for workers’ compensation benefits even if they were partially or fully responsible for their injury.
What If I Can’t Return to My Pre-Injury Job?
If you cannot return to your pre-injury job, workers’ compensation will provide you with benefits to help you retrain for a new career. These benefits can cover the cost of tuition, books, and other expenses associated with your education.
I Was Denied Workers’ Compensation Benefits. What Can I Do?
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You should contact a Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyer to discuss your legal options and help you file an appeal.
How Long Does it Take to Get Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
The length of time it takes to receive workers’ compensation benefits will depend on the severity of your injury and how long you are unable to work. Generally, you should start receiving benefits within a few weeks after filing your claim.
How Long Does Workers’ Comp Last in Charlotte, North Carolina?
The duration of your workers’ compensation benefits will depend on the severity of your injury. If you suffer a permanent disability, you may receive benefits for the rest of your life. If you can return to work, your benefits will end when you reach maximum medical improvement or return to work, whichever comes first.
Can I Quit My Job While on Workers’ Compensation?
If you quit your job while you are receiving workers’ compensation benefits, you may still be eligible for benefits. However, several factors could affect whether you should or shouldn’t quit. You should consult with a Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyer to discuss your legal options before quitting your job.
Contact Our Charlotte Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today
If you have suffered from a workplace accident, you may be entitled to compensation benefits. However, the process of obtaining these benefits can be complex and confusing.
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure that you receive the full amount of benefits to which you are entitled. Contact an attorney at The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor today to schedule a consultation.
