Your Salisbury Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Every year, the North Carolina Industrial Commission pays out over $1 billion in disability benefits and over $870 million in medical payments that are distributed to roughly 55,000 injured workers. While several thousand settlements are approved annually, many workers end up requesting a second review from the commission or filing a complaint with the North Carolina Court of Appeals to reach a fair decision.
At Lewis & Keller, our Salisbury workers’ compensation lawyers can help you navigate each step of the claims process to recover the compensation that you need. Learn more about the North Carolina workers’ compensation system and how we can help.
Responsive Service
24/7
With 2 local offices and a 24-hour hotline, our team is here for you 24/7. We make it easy to schedule consultations, and we’re happy to answer your questions or provide updates about your case. At Lewis & Keller, we take pride in offering excellent customer service and transparent communication.
Board-Certified Advocacy
Our workers’ compensation department is headed by Shannon Ward Kovach, J.D., one of approximately 150 board-certified workers’ compensation specialists in North Carolina. We handle initial claims, disputes, and appeals.
No Fees Unless
We Win
We operate on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay anything for our services unless we recover compensation for you. The initial consultation is free, and the state has a cap on how much a Salisbury workers’ compensation lawyer can charge.
Table of Contents
- How a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Can Help
- Our Salisbury Workers’ Compensation Attorney
- Workplace Injuries by Industry
- Examples of Common Workplace Injuries
- What to Do After a Workplace Injury in Salisbury
- Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits
- Salisbury Workers’ Compensation FAQs
- Speak With a Salisbury Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
- Related Articles & Info
How a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Can Help
Workers’ compensation claims are governed by complex rules and regulations that can be difficult to understand and follow, especially if you’re recovering from a sudden injury. While many cases are settled without issues, it may be helpful to consult a Salisbury workers’ compensation attorney to protect your rights and ensure that paperwork is properly filed.
Specifically, our workers’ comp attorneys can help you with the following:
Filing Your Claim
Your attorney will ensure that your employer receives written notice of the injury and that all documents, including Form 18, are filed on time and with the appropriate party.
Gathering Evidence
A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you identify the evidence needed to support your claim, such as medical records, photographs, pay stubs, and employment history.
Valuing Your Claim
An attorney can help to accurately value your claim by calculating your average weekly wages and ensuring that you receive all available benefits, including disability payments and vocational training.
Pursuing Medical Care
While you’re normally required to go to the doctor that the insurance company selects, a lawyer can help you request an independent medical examination and appeal any decisions that deny necessary medical care.
Handling Disputes
If you’re denied medical care or disability benefits, a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you schedule administrative hearings or court appeals to help you receive the benefits you may deserve.
Protecting You From Retaliation
If your employer is pressuring you to return to work or has retaliated by firing you or moving you to a less desirable position, an attorney can take action to protect your rights.
our Salisbury Workers’ Compensation attorney
Workplace Injuries by Industry
Workplace accidents occur every day, even with access to personal protective equipment, safety gear, and adequate training. Some industries and professions in Salisbury and Rowan County are more dangerous than others.
- Transportation and warehousing are among the most dangerous industries due to the frequency of vehicle accidents and general workplace injuries.
- The construction and building industry is particularly dangerous due to hazardous surfaces, falling objects, and heavy equipment.
- Factory workers are more likely to be exposed to dangerous chemicals or experience repetitive motion injuries.
- Healthcare professionals may sustain back injuries or strains while transferring patients. They can also be exposed to diseases.
Examples of Common Workplace Injuries
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that covers all types of injuries and illnesses sustained during the normal course of your job. Here are a few of the most common injuries that result in workers’ compensation claims.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Falls are extremely common on the job due to slippery work surfaces and debris, such as tools, power cords, and pallets.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Sprains, strains, and back injuries are common across all industries, especially in jobs that require heavy lifting or repetitive movements.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Workers may develop chronic conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, bursitis, and hand-arm vibration syndrome, due to repetitive tasks and poorly designed equipment.
Burns & Chemical Exposure
From hot frying oil to dangerous aerosols, workers can be exposed to a variety of dangerous substances during the course of their employment. Electrical hazards may cause shocks, burns, or electrocution.
Lacerations & Contusions
While cuts and bruises aren’t as serious as some workplace injuries, they may still cause you to miss work and rack up costly medical bills.
Bone Fractures
Sudden impacts caused by vehicle accidents, falling objects, or tripping hazards may cause head injuries and broken bones. These injuries often require surgery, and they may have long recovery times.
What to Do After a Workplace Injury in Salisbury
Anyone who’s injured on the job in Salisbury must follow the filing requirements established by the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC) to claim benefits. It’s also important to follow all medical guidance and attend follow-up appointments as directed. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
- Seek Medical Care: Access medical care immediately after the accident. Make sure to describe the circumstances of the injury to the medical provider.
- Notify Your Employer: Employees should notify their employer of the injury as soon as possible. Form 18, Notice of Accident to Employer and Claim of Employee, should be submitted to the employer and the NCIC within 30 days.
- Keep Records: It’s important for workers to retain detailed evidence of the accident, injury, and any necessary medical care to ensure that they’re properly compensated. Make sure to keep copies of medical records, bills, test results, and any notices related to the claim.
- Follow Medical Advice: In most cases, you must receive medical care through a provider that’s approved by your employer or the insurance company. Attend all appointments and follow all directions, even if you’re cleared to work.
- Consult an Attorney: If your claim is denied or if you’re having trouble dealing with your employer or the insurance company, you may need to consult a workers’ compensation attorney in Salisbury to ensure that you’re treated fairly.
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Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ compensation is a comprehensive state-managed program that provides financial and medical benefits to injured workers. In North Carolina, the Workers’ Compensation Act was enacted in 1929. This program provides the following benefits to workers who are unable to return to their jobs due to an employment-related accident or injury.
Medical Benefits
Workers’ compensation pays for all medical care needed as a result of the injury. This includes doctors’ visits, emergency medical care, surgery, physical therapy, and medications.
Wage Replacement Benefits
Wage replacement benefits typically kick in once you’re unable to work for 7 consecutive days. You may be eligible for temporary total disability or temporary partial disability benefits up to 66.66% of your average weekly wages.
Disability Compensation
If you’re unable to return to your previous job or if you’re left with a permanent impairment after you reach maximum medical improvement, you may be eligible for permanent partial disability or permanent total disability benefits, which may be paid weekly or as a lump sum.
Vocational Rehabilitation
If your injuries prevent you from doing your previous job, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation to help you master other skills. Workers’ compensation insurance may pay for vocational training, career counseling, workplace modifications, and occupational therapy.
Survivor’s Benefits
In North Carolina, there are approximately 200 fatal workplace injuries each year, with vehicle accidents and falls being the most common causes. In the event of a fatal accident, workers’ compensation may provide up to 500 weeks of disability compensation and up to $10,000 for final expenses to eligible dependents.
Our Results Speak For themselves
$
7000000
Motorcycle accident resulting in paralysis.
$
3000000
Auto accident resulting in post traumatic stress disorder.
$
1393000
Workplace accident resulting in a traumatic brain injury.
Salisbury Workers’ Compensation FAQs
What employers need to have workers’ compensation insurance?
Nearly all employers in Rowan County, ranging from large corporations like Food Lion and Daimler Truck to small mom-and-pop shops, must carry workers’ compensation insurance. The state requires companies with 3 or more employees to purchase workers’ compensation insurance or prove that they’re financially qualified to self-insure.
Who’s covered by workers’ compensation in North Carolina?
Workers’ compensation covers nearly all employees, including part-time and seasonal workers. Coverage starts on the first day of your employment, and it doesn’t matter how many days or hours you’re scheduled to work. Undocumented workers cannot be denied coverage based on their immigration status.
Who’s exempt from workers’ comp?
Workers’ comp exemptions depend on the size of the company and the industry. Here are some examples.
- Corporate officers and partners sometimes have the option to exempt themselves from coverage.
- Domestic workers, such as nannies and housekeepers, are typically exempt.
- Agricultural producers with fewer than 10 employees may not need to provide coverage.
- Independent contractors are subject to special rules depending on their employment status.
- Employees in some industries, such as railroad workers or sailors, may be able to access similar benefits through the Federal Employers’ Liability Act or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.
Can I choose my own doctor and medical provider?
In general, workers’ compensation covers company-managed medical care, so you must go to the doctor that the insurance carrier selects. However, you can go to any provider for emergency medical treatment, and you have the option to change providers or request a second opinion if you’re unhappy with the services you’re receiving.
Speak With a Salisbury Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
If you were injured on the job, you deserve to seek compensation to pay for medical care and rehabilitation. Temporary and permanent disability benefits are also available to reimburse you for a portion of your lost wages so that you can pay your bills and support your family. At Lewis & Keller, our workers’ comp attorneys in Salisbury have in-depth knowledge of the state’s insurance system. Schedule a confidential consultation today for free. Let us put our experience to work for you.
