What Accidents and Injuries Are Covered by Workers’ Compensation in North Carolina?

Workers’ Compensation: What’s Covered and What’s Not

You’re going about your daily work duties when the worst happens, and you’re injured in a workplace accident. Seeking medical treatment and ensuring that everyone is safe should be the first step, but it’s also important to think about what impact this may have on your ability to work and your finances. Find out whether workers’ compensation may apply and what you need to know.

Qualifying Injuries and Accidents

In general, an accident that occurred while at work or injuries or illness suffered as a result of your work may be covered under workers’ compensation in North Carolina. This can include blunt force injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries and broken bones, as well as injuries from accidents, such as burns, sprains, and torn muscles. In some cases, a job may cause repetitive stress on your body, such as typing or repeatedly lifting heavy loads. Workers’ compensation can also cover these types of repetitive trauma injuries.

Reasons for Denial of Workers’ Compensation

Sometimes, companies will attempt to deny a workers’ compensation claim to avoid having to pay out funds. Common reasons workers’ compensation claims may be denied include:

• Claiming that the injury didn’t occur at work
• The injury not being reported within the proper time frame
• Claiming that the employee violated safety procedures and this contributed to the injury

Talking with an attorney as soon as possible after your injury can help ensure that you have met all the requirements and reduce the chances of your claim being denied.

You Have Options If Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied

If your claim was denied, that doesn’t mean you are out of options. Having an attorney speak to your employer on your behalf can sometimes take care of the issue right away. In other situations, you may have to file a formal appeal and have a hearing with the Division of Workers’ Compensation. Your attorney can help you prepare for the hearing and ensure that you have the relevant documentation and are able to argue your case.

Speak With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

When you’ve been injured at work, filing a workers’ compensation claim may be the last thing on your mind, but the truth is that these injuries are expensive. Paying medical bills and taking time off of work can have a serious impact on your finances. Working with a workers’ compensation attorney can ensure that you have someone who understands what you’re going through and is able to advocate for you and represent you, if necessary.

Call the office of Brent Adams & Associates at 910-249-6891 to schedule a consultation and speak with an attorney about whether you can make a workers’ compensation claim.