Our Law Firm Advises Clients How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in North Carolina

Greensboro, NC workers’ comp lawyers have in-depth knowledge of the claims process

When people are hurt or become ill due to their jobs, workers’ compensation insurance pays doctor bills and provides other benefits. But if a claim isn’t filed correctly, it will probably be denied. At the law firm of Hodgman, Rowlett & Jahnes, P.A. in Greensboro, our attorneys are board-certified specialists in North Carolina workers’ compensation law. When you need to file for workers’ compensation benefits, our well-informed lawyers will guide you through the process, increasing your chances of being approved.

What qualifies as a workers’ comp claim?

Workers’ compensation insurance provides payment for medical bills, wage replacement and other benefits to people with occupational injuries and illnesses. Most employers in North Carolina with three or more employees are required by law to carry workers’ compensation coverage. People who are hurt in work-related accidents, who suffer job-related injuries over time or who become ill because of workplace conditions are eligible to file workers’ comp claims. The medical condition should be reported in writing to an employer within 30 days of the discovery of the injury or illness. If benefits are sought, there are two years to file a claim with the North Carolina Industrial Commission. We can answer all of your questions about the process of seeking benefits and assist you with preparing the necessary materials.&

Steps to take when filing your North Carolina workers’ compensation claim

Notify your employer in writing as soon as possible when you’re injured or become ill on the job. If you don’t, you could lose the right to benefits. Next, fill out Form 18 and submit it to the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC). You should also give a copy to your employer and keep a copy for yourself. It’s very important that the form is completely and accurately filled out or the insurer might try to deny you benefits. As attorneys with in-depth experience in the workers’ compensation insurance system, we can help you fill out the paperwork to increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.  

 How a skilled attorney can help you navigate the workers’ compensation process

Once you’ve filed your initial claim, you’ll either receive notification that the workers’ comp insurance company has approved your claim for benefits or denied it. If your claim is approved, you’ll get your benefits. If it’s denied, you have the right to appeal the decision to the NCIC. We’ll aid you in navigating the entire workers’ compensation process from the initial claim filing through the appeals process, if that is necessary. 

 How long do you get workers’ compensation insurance benefits?

You get medical benefits as long as you are being treated for your work-related injury or illness. For temporary total disability, you’ll get wage replacement benefits until you return to work. Benefits are paid at two-thirds of average weekly wages, up to a limit set annually by the state. For permanent partial disabilities, how long you’ll get benefit payments is determined by a complex formula that takes into account what body part is disabled, your disability rating as decided by a doctor and other factors. For permanent total disability, which is when you can never work again, you are entitled to lifelong payments, which are determined once you reach the maximum level of medical improvement. Insurers might make a lump-sum settlement offer in cases of permanent and partial total disability. We’ll negotiate a workers’ comp settlement for you if it is in line with your wishes.

Contact a respected law firm for help with your workers’ comp claim in North Carolina

For nearly 50 years, the law firm or Hodgman, Rowlett & Jahnes, P.A. in Greensboro has successfully represented North Carolinians throughout the workers’ compensation insurance claims process. To schedule a free consultation, call our firm at 336-609-7593 or contact us online.