Workers’ comp claims can become confusing quickly, so we’re sharing seven of the most important things you need to know about workers’ comp in Winston-Salem.
North Carolina requires almost all employers to have “workers’ compensation” insurance. Workers’ comp protects workers so they receive the compensation they may be entitled to after an injury on the job. However, workers’ comp claims can be tricky to handle.
That is why you will want help from experienced North Carolina workers’ comp lawyers like our team of attorneys at Lewis & Keller. We’re here to help you understand the basics of workers’ comp and walk you through everything you need to know when filing a claim.
1. You Must Report Your Injury
If you get injured at work, the first thing you need to do is report it to your manager/supervisor. Make a record of your injury as soon as possible because it is necessary for filing your claim. Delays in reporting could cause problems with getting your claim paid.
2. Workers’ Comp Is Different From Health Insurance
Many jobs offer health insurance as a benefit, but your workers’ comp claim does not depend on that. Whether you have health insurance or not, workers’ compensation insurance is something your employer pays for, not you. Most importantly, getting the compensation you seek does not depend on your health insurance plan.
3. Workers’ Comp Injuries Vary Greatly
There are countless kinds of work-related injuries, ranging from physical to psychological. Below are just a few of the most common types. If you have suffered from any of the following, you might have a potential workers’ comp claim:
Repetitive Motion Injuries
Repetitive motion wears away at joints and body parts over time, leading to injuries, especially in the arms and forearms. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common, particularly nasty, repetitive motion injury.
Stress-Related Injuries
Stress is a legitimate problem in most workplaces, and over time, stress can lead to emotional illnesses and other physical ailments such as digestive issues. In addition, stress-related injuries can be exceptionally challenging to prove in court. So, during these already-stressful times, our attorneys will be your champion so you can focus on healing.
Occupational Illnesses
When a worker gets sick and being at work makes them even sicker, it may be classified as an occupational illness. Catching an occupational illness early on is critical because it may quickly turn lethal.
4. Certain Types of Accidents Are Not Covered
An accident that happens on the job may make you eligible for compensation, but that’s not always the case. For example, while construction and truck accidents, slips, falls, and injuries from falling objects generally qualify—psychiatric disorders, self-inflicted injuries, or injuries caused while committing a crime may not.
5. You Have a Limited Amount of Time to File Your Claim
In North Carolina, there’s a time limit for how long you have to file a claim. That limit is called the “statute of limitations” and lasts two years from the date of your injury. As long as there is still time to file your claim, we will help you navigate the filing process as quickly as possible to get you the compensation you deserve. However, you need to report your injury immediately (see #1 above).
6. Workers’ Comp Can Include Multiple Benefits
When most people think of workers’ compensation, they usually picture medical benefits, and that’s all. However, while medical expenses are a big part of most claims, workers’ comp can cover more than that depending on your situation. For example, additional payments could include disability benefits to cover lost wages, incidental expenses such as mileage, and death benefits/funeral expenses if you lose a loved one from a workplace accident.
7. You Can Get a Free Case Review
To have the best chance at getting the most out of your case, you need help from a qualified attorney. The workers’ comp lawyers at Lewis & Keller understand how difficult it can be to deal with a workplace injury. That’s why we’re committed to helping you seek the compensation you deserve. Get your free case review today. Contact us online or call 877-674-5047 and discover how we are champions for every client.
