Carrboro Workplace Injury Lawyer

If you’re a Carrboro employee who’s suffered a workplace injury, you likely have questions about your options for seeking compensation. We understand that North Carolina’s workers’ compensation laws can be difficult to understand, and you may be unsure about the benefits you’re entitled to, how to file a claim, and what to expect throughout the process. 

At Whitley Law Firm, our experienced Carrboro workplace injury lawyers can provide valuable guidance and support to help you achieve a successful outcome. As your Carrboro personal injury lawyer, your attorney will help you understand your rights and options, gather evidence to support your claim and represent you in any hearings or negotiations with your employer’s insurance company.

Types of Workplace Injuries in Carrboro

You may be dealing with acute injuries, which occur suddenly and are often caused by a specific event, such as a fall or equipment malfunction. These injuries can result in broken bones, head trauma, or spinal cord injuries. 

Muscle strains are a common type of workplace injury, particularly in jobs that involve manual labor or heavy lifting. These injuries occur when a muscle is stretched or torn, leading to pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. 

North Carolina Workers’ Compensation

You may need a workplace injury lawyer in Carrboro to help you understand North Carolina workers’ compensation. A lawyer can help you understand the following:

Filing a Claim

If you’ve been injured on the job in North Carolina, you’re entitled to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. The claim process begins with reporting your injury to your employer, typically within 30 days of the incident.

When filing a claim, it’s important to follow the correct procedures to guarantee timely and efficient processing. Your employer should provide you with Form 18, which is the official claim form for workers’ compensation benefits in North Carolina. You’ll need to complete this form and return it to your employer, who will then forward it to the North Carolina Industrial Commission.

Effective filing strategies include keeping detailed records of your injury, medical treatment, and correspondence with your employer and the insurance carrier. You should also understand your rights and responsibilities under the North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act.

Types of Benefits

Temporary total disability benefits are paid to an injured worker for a certain period while they are unable to work. Under North Carolina Workers’ Compensation law, you may be eligible to receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by the state.

If you’re injured on the job, our Carrboro workplace injury lawyer can help you get the following benefits:

• Medical expenses: Your employer’s insurance company is responsible for paying for all medical expenses related to your work injury, including doctor’s visits, hospital stays, and physical therapy.
• Vocational rehab: If you’re unable to return to your previous job due to your injury, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation benefits to help you learn new skills and find a new job.

You may also be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits if you’ve suffered a permanent injury that affects your ability to work. Additionally, death benefits may be available if you’ve lost a loved one on the job.

Steps to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Carrboro

When preparing to file a workers’ compensation claim, you’ll need to take specific steps to guarantee you have a strong case. You’ll start by gathering evidence of your injury, including medical records, witness statements, and documentation of any lost wages or expenses. 

Gathering Injury Evidence

Your workplace injury file is only as strong as the evidence that supports it. As you prepare to file your claim, it’s important to focus on gathering credible evidence. 

Gathering evidence promptly is important, as delaying the process can lead to lost or destroyed evidence, fading memories, and reduced credibility. To create a solid case, consider the following:

• Take photographs of the accident scene, including any hazards or equipment involved.
• Collect physical evidence, such as broken machinery parts or torn clothing.
• Document witness statements, including the date, time, location, and details of what they saw.

Witness statements can be especially valuable in establishing the circumstances surrounding your injury. When collecting statements, verify that witnesses provide a clear and detailed account of what they saw and that their statements are signed and dated.

Reporting the Incident

After gathering evidence to support your claim, it’s time to notify your employer about the incident. This step is important for initiating the workplace injury claim process. You should follow your employer’s incident protocol for reporting workplace accidents and injuries. 

Notify your supervisor or HR representative in writing, providing them with the details of the incident, including the date, time, and location of the accident. Be sure to include a description of your injuries and any witness statements. 

When reporting the incident, it’s also a good idea to ask about your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance and the process for filing a claim. Your employer should provide you with a claim form, which you’ll need to complete and submit to the insurance carrier.

Carrboro Workplace Injury Lawyer Near Me (800) 785-5000

Workplace Injury Claim Mistakes a Carrboro Workplace Injury Lawyer Can Help You Avoid

Handling the workers’ compensation system in North Carolina can be overwhelming, especially for those dealing with workplace injuries. As you go through this convoluted process, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can hinder your claim or jeopardize your rights. 

Some workplace injury mistakes to avoid include:

• Failing to report the incident promptly, which can lead to delayed or denied benefits
• Providing incomplete or inaccurate information, which can result in a disputed claim
• Not seeking medical attention immediately can exacerbate the injury and prolong the recovery

Additionally, it’s important to maintain a detailed record of your injury, including dates, times, and descriptions of the incident. This documentation will be important for supporting your claim and demonstrating the extent of your injuries.

Contact a Carrboro Workplace Injury Lawyer

At Whitley Law Firm, our knowledgeable Carrboro workplace injury lawyer will guide you through the process, help you avoid costly mistakes, and advocate on your behalf to secure the benefits you’re entitled to under North Carolina law. 

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll respond to you within 24 hours.