Workers’ Compensation Law in Greensboro, North Carolina
In North Carolina, workers’ compensation is a statutory system that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. Most employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance, which typically covers employees if they are injured on the job.
When Should I Hire a Workers’ Comp Lawyer?
In general, it is good to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible after you are injured or become ill to understand your rights and options under the workers’ compensation system.
A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you determine whether you are eligible for benefits and can help you navigate the claims process. If your employer disputes your claim, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision.
What Should I Expect When I Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
When you hire a workers’ compensation lawyer, they will typically review your case for free and then give you an honest assessment of your chances of success.
They will generally offer to represent you on a contingency basis, which means they will only get paid if you receive monetary compensation for your injury.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
If you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, you may be entitled to medical benefits, lost wages, and permanent disability. In North Carolina, workers’ compensation benefits are typically paid by the employer’s insurance company.
Medical Benefits
Medical benefits under workers’ compensation will typically cover all reasonable and necessary expenses related to any medical treatment you receive due to your work-related injury or illness. This can include hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and other treatments.
Lost Wages Benefits:
Temporary Total Disability Benefits
If you are temporarily totally disabled due to your injury or illness, you may be eligible for temporary disability benefits. These benefits are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount.
Temporary Partial Disability Benefits
If you can return to work with a reduced earning capacity, you may be eligible for temporary partial disability benefits. These benefits are typically two-thirds of the difference between your current wages and your pre-injury wages, up to a maximum amount.
Permanent Disability
Permanent disability benefits may be available if you suffer a permanent impairment due to your injury or illness. These benefits are typically based on the severity of the impairment and can be paid in a lump sum or as periodic payments.
Death Benefits
If you have lost a loved one due to a workplace injury or illness, you may be entitled to death benefits. These benefits can help cover funeral expenses and lost income.
Common Workplace Injuries
There are a variety of workplace injuries that can occur, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries, such as broken bones and concussions.
Some of the most common workplace injuries include:
- Cuts and lacerations
- Bruises and contusions
- Sprains and strains
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Concussions
- Internal injuries
- Burns
- Exposure to harmful substances
- Repetitive motion injuries
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Heat stroke
- Cold stress injuries
- Electrical shocks and burns
- Amputations
While some of these injuries may only require a short recovery period, others can have a more lasting impact on your health and well-being. If you have suffered a workplace injury, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Workers’ Compensation Cases We Handle
At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, we handle all types of workers’ compensation cases, including:
- Injuries caused by workplace accidents
- Injuries caused by repetitive motion or exposure to hazardous conditions
- Occupational disease cases
- Wrongful death claims filed by the surviving family members of a worker who was killed on the job.
No matter how your injury occurred, a workers’ comp attorney can help you get the benefits you are entitled to.
What to Do After an Injury in Greensboro, North Carolina
If you have been injured at work, there are a few important steps that you should take:
- Get medical attention: It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after the injury. This will ensure that you receive the treatment you need and create a record of your injury.
- Report the injury to your employer: You have 30 days to give written notice to your employer.
- Contact a workers’ compensation lawyer: An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Comp Claim?
In North Carolina, you have two years from the date of your injury to file a workers’ compensation claim. If you do not file within this time frame, you may be barred from receiving benefits. Please note, however, that if you fail to notify your employer within 30 days, the insurance company is likely to deny your claim for failing to give notice.
How Much Will I Receive in Benefits?
The amount of benefits you receive will depend on various factors, including: your average weekly wage prior to your injury, the body part injured, the severity of your injury, the length of your recovery, and whether you can return to work.
How Long Will it Take to Receive Benefits?
Once your claim has been filed, you should receive a decision within 14 days. You should begin receiving benefits within 21 days if your claim is accepted.
What If My Claim Is Denied?
The denial has to be contested and a request for hearing must be filed with the North Carolina Industrial Commission. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate this process.
Top Employers in Greensboro, North Carolina
According to News & Record, these are some of the top employers in the city:
- Guilford County Schools – 9,545
- Cone Health – 9,287
- The City of Greensboro – 2,945
- Ralph Lauren Corp – 2,853
- Guilford County – 2,603
- High Point Regional UNC Health Care – 2,500
- UNCG – 2,481
Contact our Greensboro Work Injury Lawyers
The workers’ compensation system is designed to help injured workers and their families get the benefits they need to recover from workplace injuries and illnesses. However, the claims process can be complex and confusing.
At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, we have a team of lawyers who can help you with every step of the claims process. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate the system and get the benefits you are entitled to.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
