Charlotte Workers’ Comp Lawyer

Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in North Carolina

If you’ve been injured on the job, you may be searching for a Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyer and Riddle & Brantley may be able to help. We’ve recovered $720+ million dollars in compensation for injured North Carolina workers since 2000 alone (see disclaimer below), and we would love to help however we can.

For decades, Riddle & Brantley’s workers comp attorneys have represented injured employees throughout the state of North Carolina.  We are committed to justice for all North Carolinians and have extensive experience serving the residents of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County.

For a FREE consultation with a workers’ compensation attorney at Riddle & Brantley, call us at (704) 486-5824 or complete the fast and easy form below. For all workers’ compensation cases, our attorneys work on a contingency fee. This means we do not get paid unless our attorneys successfully obtain compensation for your injuries.

At Riddle and Brantley, we believe that “Justice Counts” for everyone and we will fight to ensure that you or your loved one get the compensation you deserve.

“I would like to thank Riddle & Brantley for doing such a great job handling my workers’ compensation case.”

-Gregory S., Riddle & Brantley client

Don’t wait — the longer you wait, the harder it may be to get you the workers’ compensation benefits you need and deserve. Talk with a  workers’ comp attorney today for free at no obligation — call (704) 486-5824 or complete the fast and convenient form below.

Why Hire a Workers' Comp Attorney?

Common Work Injuries in North Carolina

Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina and home to a wide range of industries and work environments, and injuries on the job are unfortunately common. Our workers’ compensation attorneys have more than 220 years of combined legal experience representing clients who have suffered various types of injuries and illnesses including:

• Back injuries
• Shoulder injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Loss of limb(s) or amputations
• Broken bones
• Burns
• Vision loss
• Hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Respiratory illnesses
• Illness resulting from asbestos exposure (like mesothelioma)
• Exposure to toxic chemicals and substances
• Carpal tunnel and repetitive motion injuries

If you’ve suffered any of these or other injuries while working on the job, you may have a valid workers’ compensation claim and be entitled to compensation. If you believe you may be entitled to compensation for your work-related accident, contact us today at (704) 486-5824.

Free, No-obligation Consultations

We offer multiple types of consultations including consultations by phone, email, text, or video conference. In the event you cannot come to our convenient Charlotte location (in-person consultations by appointment only), we can come to you. We have experienced investigators on staff who can meet with you immediately and begin investigating the facts and circumstances of your case to assist our workers’ compensation lawyers in building the strongest case possible.

There is no in-person meeting required to get started on your case. We can handle everything and get the ball rolling. Call (704) 486-5824 today and let’s talk.

What Kind of Workers' Compensation Benefits Could I Receive?

Workers' comp handles wage replacement for the time you have to spend off work while you heal. Generally, the percentage of your wage workers' comp pays in North Carolina is around two-thirds, or 66%, of your regular wages. So, if you fell at work and broke your wrist and are unable to work for six weeks, you should receive that benefit. It will also pay for your medical expenses.

In the event of a severe or catastrophic injury or illness, you may also be eligible for the following:

1. Temporary Partial Disability Benefits (TPD)

You typically receive temporary partial disability benefits if you can do some but not all of the tasks you did previously or if you need to work fewer hours. Because it is temporary, there is an expectation you might return to work at full capacity at a later date. You may receive TPD benefits for up to 500 weeks. Ideally, TPD makes up 2/3 of the difference between your current wages versus your average weekly wages.

2. Temporary Total Disability Benefits (TTD)

Serious injuries could make it impossible to continue working. If your doctor determines that you cannot work while you recover, you may receive temporary total disability benefits. It replaces 2/3  of your income for the period you cannot work. For example, if your average weekly wage is $900, you will likely receive $600.

This benefit can also last for up to 500 weeks. However, some injuries or illnesses may qualify for lifetime benefits if they occurred after June 24, 2011. Generally speaking, though, these are temporary benefits, so there is an expectation that you might later return to work.

3. Permanent Partial Disability Benefits (PPD)

North Carolina provides a list of scheduled injuries that may qualify as disabilities. Each different type of injury has a separate benefits schedule assigned to it, so there is no one-size-fits-all estimate for how much you receive.

Here are some examples of injuries that could lead to permanent partial disability benefits:

• Loss of or permanent injury to organs, such as the eye or lungs
• Disfigurement of the face, head, or body
• Loss of a limb or multiple limbs
• Loss of a digit or multiple digits
• Impaired hearing
• Impaired sight
• Chronic or severe back injuries

4. Permanent Total Disability Benefits (PTD)

If your doctor determines you cannot return to work, you may become eligible for permanent total disability benefits. Our attorneys will work with you to determine whether your impairment is on the schedule for permanent disabilities and advocate for you so that you have the best chance of receiving permanent total disability benefits.

Board-Certified Specialists in Workers’ Compensation

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to finding a workers’ compensation lawyer. When choosing a worker’s comp attorney, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important factors you may want to think about is whether your potential attorney is a Board-Certified Specialist in workers’ compensation law.

Riddle & Brantley has two Board-Certified Specialists in workers’ compensation law on staff ready to represent you — attorneys Chris Brantley and Adam Smith. These workers’ comp attorneys have been recognized by the North Carolina State Bar Association for their dedication and proficiency in work injury law.

When you work with a Riddle & Brantley attorney, you’ll not only get a powerful advocate for justice, but you’ll also be supported by an entire staff of case managers, paralegals, and investigators dedicated to your success.

Riddle & Brantley Workers’ Comp Attorney Reviews

We believe the words of our clients speak for themselves:

“I am very happy with the service provided to me by Riddle & Brantley in my workers’ comp case … I am completely satisfied with the result of my case.”

-Lakeisha D., Riddle & Brantley client

Whether you or a loved one sustained a serious injury from a work accident, Riddle and Brantley is ready to help. During your free consultation, one of our workers’ compensation attorneys will evaluate your claim and assess the best course of action for your case. Even if your workers’ compensation claim is denied, give us a call at (704) 486-5824 — we may be able to help with your appeal and get you the benefits you need and deserve.

Our Results

Of course, client testimonials are not the only measure of our success. We are also proud of the case results we’ve won for our deserving clients, including:

• $2,750,000 — Attorneys Gene Riddle and Adam Smith fought for justice when our client, a construction worker, was hit by a truck in a work zone, eventually losing his right leg below the knee. We filed separate personal injury and workers’ compensation claims and even filed suit against the truck insurance company, ultimately securing $2.75 million in total compensation in separate settlements prior to trial.
• $2,475,000 — When a welder fell from a platform and suffered serious, disabling injuries, Riddle & Brantley attorneys jumped into action. Through several mediations and post-mediation negotiations, our legal team obtained total compensation of $2.475 million for our injured client. We also helped set up two trusts to provide for our client’s long-term care.
• $1,800,000 — Our client was driving a truck while on the job and was hit head-on by another truck. He suffered serious injuries including the eventual amputation of his leg below the knee. Managing partner Gene Riddle fought for justice, ultimately winning settlements with the workers’ comp carrier and the carrier for the defendant vehicle. Total compensation of $1.8 million was awarded.
• $829,000 — Partner Christopher Brantley fought for an employee who was seriously injured by a falling tree while on the job. The work injury resulted in cognitive impairment and semi-paralysis, among other injuries. A settlement was obtained totaling $829,000.
• $200,000 — Riddle & Brantley represented a truck driver who suffered multiple injuries on the job. When the insurance company attempted to terminate his benefits, we immediately requested a hearing with the NC Industrial Commission. After winning a favorable verdict, the parties agreed to mediation, where we were able to negotiate a $200,000 settlement on our client's behalf.

*** Disclaimer: The results mentioned are intended to illustrate the type of cases handled by the firm. These results do not guarantee a similar outcome, and they should not be construed to constitute a promise or guarantee of a particular result in any particular case. Every case is different, and the outcome of any case depends upon a variety of factors unique to that case.

“What Happens if I’m Injured in an Auto Accident While on the Job?”

In the event you were injured in a car accident while working, you may have two separate actions. First, you could have a worker’s compensation claim. This portion of your claim will handle medical expenses and lost income. Under a workers’ compensation claim fault is not a factor in recovery. Therefore, if you were at fault for your injuries, you may still be entitled to recovery.

Additionally, you may also have a third-party liability claim against the driver of the other vehicle. To successfully establish a claim against another party’s insurance company, the other party must be deemed at fault for the accident. At Riddle & Brantley, we have experienced investigators on staff who can assist with investigating the facts and circumstances of the accident and proving fault.

Although these claims are two separate actions, they often are intertwined and can prompt complex legal issues. At Riddle and Brantley, our workers’ compensation attorneys understand the legal complexities of filing both a workers’ compensation claim and an auto accident claim.

“What Can a Work Injury Lawyer Do for Me?”

Workers’ compensation claims can be complex and time-consuming. At Riddle and Brantley, we want you to focus on your recovery, while we handle your claim.

A work injury lawyer from Riddle & Brantley can handle all aspects of your case.

We will ensure that:

• All necessary parties, including the insurance company, your employer, and The North Carolina Industrial Commission, are notified of your injury (Form 18)
• Your employer files the necessary paperwork — or the NCIC is alerted and your employer is held accountable.
• The insurance company formally files an acceptance of your claim with the Industrial Commission
• Medical bills are gathered and properly paid
• The adjuster and nurse case manager do not inappropriately communicate with your doctors
• Your weekly disability checks are timely
• Average weekly rates are properly calculated
• The insurance company approves all referrals for medical care (such as diagnostic tests like MRIs) in a timely manner
• Medications are approved in a timely manner
• If needed, proper vocational training and re-education is provided
• You receive a second opinion from a qualified doctor
• You are not forced to return to work to a position that was created solely to prevent you from receiving a disability check
• You do not waive your rights or settle part of your claim for less than full value

What to Do After a Work Injury

If you’ve been injured while on the job, the road to recovery can be long and the consequences can be life-changing. The actions you take immediately following your workplace accident can have a significant impact on the outcome of your workers’ compensation claim.

Immediately after your workplace injury, follow these steps to protect your health and safety, as well as your legal rights in a potential workers’ compensation claim:

• Seek medical attention — not only will this protect your health and safety, but medical records and treatment history will play an important role in your workers’ compensation claim
• Immediately notify your employer of your injury in writing by submitting Form 18 (available from the NC Industrial Commission)
• Ensure that your employer files Form 18 and Form 19 (its own notification of the work injury) with the NCIC (if you’re concerned about them following through, you or a workers’ compensation attorney can file the form directly with the NCIC)
• Contact a workers' compensation lawyer — insurance companies often fight hard to deny workers' comp claims in Charlotte and across North Carolina, and an experienced attorney at Riddle & Brantley can help — call (704) 486-5824 today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

You don’t need to go it alone.

While North Carolina law does not require you to hire an attorney, you may want to consider hiring a workplace injury lawyer in Charlotte, NC.

Riddle & Brantley has two Board-Certified Specialists in Workers’ Compensation law and we would be happy to consult with you about your workers’ compensation claim and other legal options.

For a FREE, no-obligation case review with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer at Riddle & Brantley, please call (704) 486-5824 or complete this form. Since we work on a contingency basis, if you decide to hire us to represent you, there are no upfront costs. We only get paid if we recover financial compensation for you.

“You’ll walk in the front door as a client but leave as family. They’re the absolute best.”

-Susan S., Riddle & Brantley client

All North Carolinians deserve justice, including those injured at work.

Please call (704) 486-5824 today or complete the fast and easy form below. We’d love to talk with you and see if we can help.

This page was updated on 10/31/2023

*** Disclaimer: The results mentioned are intended to illustrate the type of cases handled by the firm. These results do not guarantee a similar outcome, and they should not be construed to constitute a promise or guarantee of a particular result in any particular case. Every case is different, and the outcome of any case depends upon a variety of factors unique to that case.