Workers’ compensation is an insurance system that provides benefits to employees who suffer on-the-job injuries or illnesses. Most North Carolina employers are required to have a workers’ compensation insurance policy for their staff members. The benefits compensate workers for medical expenses and lost wages while they are unable to work. Your employer does not have to be at fault for your injuries in order for you to get benefits. However, you give up your right to sue them if you file for workers’ compensation. If you have suffered an injury at work contact a Concord workers’ compensation attorney before you do anything else.
Even though workers are entitled to these benefits, the application process can be very complicated. This comes as a surprise to many injured workers. They assume that once they submit the necessary information, they will get the benefits they so badly need. Sadly, this isn’t always the case. That’s why it’s best to call Ted A. Greve to consult a Concord, NC workers’ compensation attorney for guidance.
If you need to file a claim, you don’t want to do anything that would put your benefits in jeopardy. Lawyers are also invaluable for workers whose claims were denied. The personal injury attorneys at our law firm are familiar with how the system works. We will put all our knowledge and experience at your disposal. Let’s look at three common questions our clients ask.
Which Injuries Qualify for Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Workers’ compensation covers all injuries which employees sustain in the course of their job. It also covers illnesses which develop because of their working conditions. Whether you fall and break your arm or develop cancer because you were exposed to toxins, you should qualify for benefits. If pre-existing injuries worsen or you develop repetitive motion injuries, you should also be eligible.
Most workers’ comp injuries result from sprains, tears, and strains. Other common causes of workplace injuries include:
- Slips and falls
- Falling objects
- Electrocution
- Vehicular accidents
- Fires and explosions
- Collapsed structures
- Equipment malfunction
- Violent attacks
What Types of Benefits Can You Get from Workers’ Comp?
In North Carolina and elsewhere in the United States, there are four types of benefits. A Concord workers’ compensation attorney can help you make a strong case for the payments you deserve. You may be able to access:
Medical Benefits
The insurance company should pay your bills for emergency care, hospital expenses, surgeries, medication, and nursing care, among other expenses.
Disability Payments
You are eligible to receive wage replacement benefits if you have to take more than seven days off work. You will get two-thirds of your average pre-injury wages. You only get compensation for the first seven days if you can’t work for more than 21 days.
Vocational Rehabilitation
You may not be able to resume your previous duties following your injury or illness. Alternatively, you may earn less than 75 percent of your previous income because of your condition. In either of these instances, you can access training for a new role.
Death Benefits
If your loved one died because of a work accident or illness, you are entitled to wrongful death benefits. You can get compensation for funeral expenses up to $10,000 and two-thirds of the deceased’s average weekly wages. This compensation runs for 500 weeks.
Why Would My Workers Compensation Claim Get Denied?
Sometimes the employer’s insurance company is justified in denying a claim. If your injuries resulted from intoxication or horseplay or they were self-inflicted, you won’t be entitled to benefits. Denials can also be due to the mistakes you made. Maybe you took too long to notify your employer about your injury. Maybe you don’t have enough proof that the injury was work-related. If you make errors on the forms or you don’t follow your doctor’s treatment plan, your claim may also be rejected.
Insurers may also challenge your claim by saying:
- You fabricated or exaggerated your injuries
- Your injury was pre-existing
- Your injury or illness is not work-related
- You are capable of returning to work
- You are an independent contractor
Let Ted A. Greve and Associates Help You!
If you or someone you know in the Concord, NC area suffered a work-related injury or illness, call us. Or workers’ compensation lawyers in Concord, NC will listen to the facts of your case. We will advise you on whether you have a valid claim or not. We offer free initial consultations on North Carolina workers’ compensation cases. If you choose us to handle your case, you won’t have to pay any fees until we win your case. Call Ted A. Greve & Associates today and let us help you get the benefits you need and deserve.
