Concord Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Concord Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Concord, NC, a charming city in Cabarrus County, has a bustling workforce that keeps the economy running smoothly. From construction workers to healthcare professionals, employees across various industries dedicate their time and energy to their respective jobs. However, workplace injuries and illnesses can happen to anyone, and when they do, workers’ compensation can provide the necessary financial support and medical care. In Concord, workers’ compensation is an essential resource for injured employees, ensuring they receive the care they need to get back on their feet and return to work.

At Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler, our experienced Concord workers’ compensation attorneys are knowledgeable and can help injured employees recover the full benefits they are entitled to. Our lawyers understand the ins and outs of North Carolina workers’ compensation laws and are committed to providing compassionate, personalized legal services. We have a long track record of obtaining maximum compensation for our clients, including medical bills and lost wages during their recovery period.

What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available in Concord, North Carolina?

Workers’ compensation in Concord, NC provides several benefits to employees who have suffered work-related injuries or illnesses. Some of the key benefits available through the workers’ compensation system in Concord include:

• Medical benefits. Workers’ compensation covers the cost of medical treatment necessary to treat the injury or illness. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, and physical therapy.
• Wage replacement. Workers’ compensation provides wage replacement benefits if an employee cannot work due to a work-related injury or illness. These benefits replace a portion of the employee’s lost wages and can help cover living expenses during the recovery period.
• Disability benefits. In cases where an employee is permanently disabled due to a work-related injury or illness, workers’ compensation may provide disability benefits to help compensate for the loss of income and quality of life.
• Vocational rehabilitation. If an employee cannot return to their previous job due to a work-related injury or illness, workers’ compensation may provide vocational rehabilitation to help them develop new skills and find new employment opportunities.
• Death benefits. In the unfortunate event that an employee dies due to a work-related injury or illness, workers’ compensation may provide death benefits to the employee’s dependents to help compensate for the loss of income and support.

What Is the Workers’ Compensation Process in Concord?

The workers’ compensation process in Concord, NC involves a series of steps to provide financial assistance, medical treatment, and rehabilitation services to employees who have suffered work-related injuries or illnesses.

The first step is to report the injury or illness to the employer immediately. This can be done verbally or in writing, and it is recommended that employees report the injury or illness within 24 hours of the incident. The employee may lose the right to workers’ compensation benefits if the injury or illness is not reported within 30 days.

The next step is to seek medical attention for the injury or illness. The employer may provide a list of approved healthcare providers, and the employee must receive medical treatment as soon as possible. The medical provider will assess the employee’s condition and recommend a course of treatment to help them recover.

After seeking medical attention, the employee should file a claim with the North Carolina Industrial Commission. The employer or insurance carrier should provide the employee with a claim form to complete, and it is important to submit the form as soon as possible. The claim will be investigated to determine whether workers’ compensation covers the injury or illness.

If the claim is approved, the employee will receive benefits. The benefits may include medical treatment, wage replacement, disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and death benefits if the injury or illness results in death. The number of benefits will depend on the severity of the injury or illness and the employee’s earning capacity.

If the claim is denied, the employee can appeal the decision. This involves a hearing before the North Carolina Industrial Commission, where the employee and the employer or insurance carrier will present evidence to support their case.

During the workers’ compensation process, the employee will receive medical treatment for the injury or illness, and if necessary, rehabilitation services to help them recover and return to work. Once the employee can return to work, the employer should provide practical work based on the employee’s restrictions and capabilities.

What Adjustments Should an Employer Make Once an Employee Returns to Work?

Once an employee returns to work after a work-related injury or illness, employers in Concord, NC must make reasonable accommodations to ensure the employee can perform their job duties. These accommodations are aimed at helping the employee perform their job duties safely and efficiently, and to avoid re-injury or aggravation of the injury.

Here are some of the adjustments that employers could make:

• Modify job duties. Employers may need to modify the employee’s job duties to accommodate any work restrictions or limitations identified by the healthcare provider. This may involve adjusting the amount or type of work the employee performs or modifying the work environment.
• Provide additional training. Employers may need additional training or refresher courses to help the employee perform their job duties safely and efficiently.
• Adjust work schedule. Employers may need to adjust the employee’s work schedule to accommodate medical appointments or physical therapy sessions.
• Provide special equipment. Employers may need special equipment or tools to help employees perform their duties safely and efficiently. For example, an employer may provide a lift or hoist to help an employee move heavy objects.
• Change the work environment. Employers may need to change the work environment to help the employee perform their job duties safely and efficiently. This may involve adjusting the lighting or temperature in the workplace or providing a special chair or workstation to accommodate the employee’s physical limitations.
• Provide ongoing support. Employers may need to provide ongoing support to the employee to ensure they can perform their job duties safely and efficiently. This may involve regular check-ins with the employee and their healthcare provider, and making adjustments to the accommodations as needed.

Workers Compensation Attorney FAQs

Q: When Should I Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?

A: It is generally recommended that you hire a workers’ compensation lawyer if you are facing a dispute over your claim, have denied your claim, or have concerns about your rights under the workers’ compensation system. A lawyer can help you through the complex legal process, gather evidence to support your workers’ compensation claim, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. In addition, if your employer retaliates against you for filing a claim, an attorney can also help you take legal action to protect your rights.

Q: What Percentage Does a Workers’ Comp Attorney Get in NC?

A: In North Carolina, workers’ compensation attorneys typically work on contingency, meaning they only receive payment if they can secure benefits for their clients. The fee is usually 25% of the total settlement or award obtained for the client. However, the exact percentage may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the amount of work required. Discussing the fee structure with your attorney upfront is important to avoid any surprises or misunderstandings. This could include any additional costs, such as filing fees or expert witness fees that you don’t want to delay your case if they can’t be paid when needed.

Q: Is There a Waiting Period for Workers’ Comp in NC?

A: Yes, there is a waiting period for workers’ compensation benefits in North Carolina. The waiting period is seven days, meaning an employee must be unable to work for at least seven days before they are eligible to receive wage replacement benefits. If the employee cannot work for more than 21 days, they may receive retroactive benefits for the first seven days. It is important to report your injury to your employer as soon as possible to avoid any delays in receiving benefits.

Q: How Long Does It Take to Settle a Workers’ Comp Case in NC?

A: The length of time it takes to settle a workers’ compensation case in North Carolina can vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of the injury, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. Some cases can be settled in a matter of weeks, while others may take several months or even years. It is important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and negotiate a fair settlement. In some cases, a hearing before the North Carolina Industrial Commission may be necessary, which can further extend the timeline of the case.

Get in Touch With Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler for Your Workers’ Comp Case

If you have been injured on the job in North Carolina and need help with your workers’ compensation claim, contact Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler today. Our experienced attorneys are here to ensure your rights are protected and to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a consultation and see how we can help you.