A workers’ compensation claim may be an option if you suffer an injury in your workplace or the course of your employment duties outside the workplace. These benefits also may be available if you contract an occupational illness due to a condition or substance in your workplace. With the help of a Southern Pines workers’ compensation lawyer, you may be able to obtain compensation for your medical expenses and more.
An attorney in your area might be able to help you navigate the often- complex claims process. In many cases, insurance carriers may be reluctant to pay the full values of claims by minimizing your injuries or resulting impairments. Having legal guidance throughout this process may help ensure a better outcome for your claim.
Benefits Under the Workers’ Compensation Program
State law requires all employers with three or more workers to maintain workers’ compensation insurance for those workers or face significant penalties. If the workers are injured or become ill due to conditions on the job, they can seek compensation for their medical expenses and a portion of their lost wages. They also may be able to receive compensation if they sustain a permanent disability.
However, participation in the workers’ compensation program protects the employer as well. Injured or ill workers who collect these benefits also give up their right to sue their employers based on their injuries. Their sole remedy for their injuries is to file workers’ compensation claims.
The workers’ compensation program is a no-fault or strict liability benefits program. As a result, workers do not need to prove that their employers were negligent in causing their injuries. According to a workers’ compensation lawyer in Southern Pines, the fact that they have suffered a work-related injury or illness is enough to make them eligible for benefits.
For a free legal consultation with a workers' compensation lawyer serving Southern Pines, call (800)785-5000
Steps to Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Southern Pines
When workers suffer an injury or illness in the course of their employment, they should take immediate steps to protect their rights to workers’ compensation. In most cases, employees must report all work-related injuries and illnesses to their employers in writing and within 30 days of their occurrence, unless they have a reasonable excuse for giving notice within that timeframe. Ultimately, employees must file a formal claim for workers’ compensation with the state Industrial Commission within two years to be eligible for any compensation.
Some employers who accept the claims of their employees may automatically file the claims on their own. However, if they fail to recognize or file the claims, employees can submit their claims. If the employer is not supportive of the employee filing a claim, their insurance carrier is likely to deny the claim.
Insurance companies have a vested interest in denying employee claims for workers’ compensation to limit their payouts and maximize their bottom lines. As a result, many workers face an initial denial of their claims. Enlisting the help of a workers’ compensation attorney in Southern Pines can be crucial to a favorable outcome to a workers’ compensation claim.
Southern Pines Workers' Compensation Lawyer Near Me (800)785-5000
Call a Southern Pines Workers’ Compensation Attorney for Advice
Workers’ compensation insurance carriers can deny your claim for many reasons, such as your claim being untimely or your medical problem being a preexisting condition. Regardless of your circumstances, a Southern Pines workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to investigate the details of your case, examine your medical records, and build a strong claim for workers’ compensation. Together, you can work toward getting the compensation that you deserve for your work-related injuries or illnesses.
When you have sustained a severe injury or illness while on the job, the workers’ compensation program is supposed to be where you can turn for help with medical bills and lost wages associated with your recovery. Whether you suffer a permanent impairment or eventually recover, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation for your job-related injuries or illnesses. By contacting legal counsel today, you may have a better chance of obtaining the benefits that you and your family need and deserve during this challenging time in your life.
Call (800)785-5000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form