Kinston Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Have you suffered a severe work-related injury in Kinston? Suffering an on-the-job injury can be extremely stressful and confusing. You might be concerned about who will pay your medical bills, when you will be able to return to work (if at all), and what the future holds for your career.
Unfortunately, workers are hurt more frequently than many people realize, and many such incidents go unreported. Whenever you are injured at work, it’s a wise idea to enlist the services of a Kinston workers’ compensation lawyer from the Whitley Law Firm.
You deserve injury attorneys familiar with the complexities of workers’ compensation cases. Not only do we meet weekly to discuss changes in your case (because we know how quickly things can change), but we provide responsive, compassionate legal care and communication throughout. You can call us today at (919) 785-5000 to get started.
An Attorney Can Help You Recover Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits
According to the US Department of Labor, about three million people suffer non-fatal injuries in private workplaces each year. While some injuries are minor, many are more severe and require longer-term care, treatment, and rehabilitation. Some are even disabling, preventing employees from returning to work altogether.
If you were hurt at work, a lawyer can help you seek the compensation you need to pay your medical bills and make up for lost wages. Employers in North Carolina pay into a benefits system so that workers who are hurt on the job can receive compensation, regardless of who caused the accident or injury. We can also help you go after hidden claims so that you do not leave money on the table.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ compensation claims are unique in several ways. Unlike typical personal injury claims where you can claim non-economic damages, you can typically only receive benefits related to income and medical care with a workers’ comp claim.
If you are experiencing impairment after achieving maximum medical improvement from your medical treatment, your Kinston workers’ compensation lawyer can discuss with you whether you may be eligible for recouping the loss of future wages, especially if your injury is permanent and disabling.
In addition, if you were hurt due to your employer’s egregiously dangerous or malicious conduct, you may be eligible for additional compensation in certain limited circumstances. Your attorney can examine the facts in your case and advise your next steps.
You May Be Eligible to File a Third-Party Lawsuit
Another advantage of speaking with an attorney about your workplace injury is that they may be able to find additional options for your compensation. Workers’ compensation benefits only cover about ⅔ of your weekly wages, and they do not compensate you for your pain and suffering.
While you cannot sue your employer directly after a workplace injury, you may be able to sue liable third parties. If this is an option in your case, an attorney will find the evidence that demonstrates their negligence and pursue them for what you deserve.
Workplace Injuries and Accidents
Workplace accidents can cause various injuries. Common types of accidents include:
- Machinery accidents, defective machinery
- Falls from heights
- Falls from ladders
- Repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Car and truck accidents
- Accidents caused by farming equipment
- Negligent behavior by a co-worker
- Malicious acts of violence
- Construction accidents
- Hazardous chemical spills
- Explosions
- Commercial vehicle accidents
- Falling objects
- Slip and falls
- Long-term carcinogen exposure
- Asbestos
- Electrocution
Such accidents can cause serious and debilitating:
- Back injuries
- Neck injuries
- Brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Amputation
- Spinal cord injuries
- Rotator cuff tears
- Psychological stress and PTSD
- Burns
Employers and their insurance companies have a vested interest in denying claims or paying out as little as possible. As an injured employee, you have rights; our Kinston workers’ compensation attorneys can help you protect those rights. We fight on your behalf to ensure that you receive the appropriate medical care and all the benefits for which you qualify.
Things to Know About Workers’ Compensation Claims
There are many rules involved in North Carolina’s workers’ compensation program. Here are three of the many things you need to know if you got injured on the job:
- You must give your employer written notice of the accident within 30 days.
- You must use the healthcare providers on your employer’s approved list, instead of your regular doctor.
- You are allowed to get a second opinion at any time during the course of your treatment, and you can request a change of physician.
- You may be eligible to recover benefits beyond medical bills and lost wages. For example, if you have to travel far distances to obtain medical care, you can recover the mileage costs.
These three items are but a few examples of the things you need to know about workers’ compensation claims in Kinston. An attorney can answer other questions related to your claim, including what to do if you fear retaliation from your employer.
Workers’ Compensation and Employer Retaliation
If you have been injured at work, you may be worried that if you report the injury, your employer may fire you. However, it is illegal for your employer to fire you, demote you, change your work duties, or treat you differently because you filed a workers’ compensation claim.
If you are concerned about your employer’s response to your injury, your Kinston workers’ compensation lawyer can be by your side throughout the process, advising you on everything from filing your claim to communicating with your employer. In all instances, consulting with your attorney is incredibly valuable to ensure your rights are protected.
How to Get Started with the Whitley Law Firm on Your Workers’ Compensation Case
You can contact us today at (919) 785-5000 for a free case evaluation. Get the Whitley Advantage on your workers’ compensation claim. We work together as one big family, so you can prioritize your health and your family.
Secure client-focused legal help for no upfront costs or fees today.
