Were you injured at work in Greensboro, NC? If so, you probably have questions about your legal rights, the workers’ compensation process, and your claim’s worth. Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers is here with the answers you need to decide what to do next.
Our Greensboro workers’ compensation attorneys bring more than 171 years of combined legal experience to every case we take on. To date, we’ve helped injured workers recover over $900 million (see disclaimer below). We’re confident that we can help you with your claim as well.
Contact us today at (336) 516-9066 to schedule a free consultation.
How Can Riddle & Riddle Help With My Workers’ Comp Claim in Greensboro, NC?
Filing for workers’ compensation isn’t always straightforward. Employers and their insurance carriers sometimes delay or deny claims to limit the amount that they have to pay, and it’s possible that you can file a third-party personal injury lawsuit in some situations for extra compensation.
When you work with Riddle & Riddle, our Greensboro personal injury lawyers will:
- Investigate your accident and gather medical evidence
- Explain your legal rights and responsibilities
- Identify whether third parties beyond your employer may share liability
- Calculate the value of your claim
- Handle all filings and paperwork correctly and on time
- Negotiate with insurers for the full benefits you’re entitled to
- File an appeal if your claim is denied
- Take your case to court if necessary
If you choose us to represent you, our Greensboro workers’ compensation attorney will make your case a priority from the start. Contact us today in Greensboro, North Carolina, for a free consultation.
What Is Workers’ Compensation in North Carolina?
Almost every employer in North Carolina with three or more employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance. This system allows employees who are injured or made sick on the job to receive benefits without needing to prove fault.
In general, workers’ comp covers the following categories of benefits:
- Medical benefits: payment for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to the work injury
- Temporary total disability: wage replacement if you cannot work at all while recovering
- Temporary partial disability: payments if you can return to work in a reduced capacity at lower pay
- Permanent partial disability: compensation if you’ve lost use of a body part or function
- Permanent total disability: benefits if you can never return to gainful employment
- Death benefits: payments made if a worker dies as a result of a job-related injury or illness
The exact benefits you’re eligible for will depend on many factors, most prominently the severity of your injuries and how long they will keep you out of work.
Can I File a Lawsuit Outside of Workers’ Compensation in Greensboro, NC?
In most cases, workers’ compensation is the exclusive remedy against your employer. That means you cannot sue your employer directly for negligence if they provide workers’ comp coverage.
However, you may be able to file a third-party personal injury lawsuit if someone other than your employer caused or contributed to your injury.
Examples include:
- A negligent driver who caused a car accident while you were driving for work
- A property owner who failed to keep a jobsite safe
- A manufacturer who sold defective equipment that caused injury
These third-party claims can allow you to recover compensation beyond workers’ comp, such as full lost wages and pain and suffering.
What if I’m Being Blamed for My Workplace Accident in Greensboro?
North Carolina workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. That means you are generally entitled to benefits regardless of who caused the accident. However, there are a few exceptions to take note of. For example, you may be denied benefits if your injury was caused by intentionally harming yourself.
Also, keep in mind that if you are able to file a personal injury lawsuit for additional compensation, North Carolina’s strict “contributory negligence” law may come into play. This law bars you from recovering compensation through a lawsuit if you share any of the blame.
If you’re being blamed for your injury, our lawyers can help you respond effectively so that you can maintain your claim’s full value.
How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Comp Claim in North Carolina?
Under North Carolina law, you must notify your employer of your injury within 30 days of the accident. You must also file a formal claim with the North Carolina Industrial Commission, typically within two years of the date of injury. For applicable cases, the statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits in the state is three years.
If you don’t take action on time, you may lose your right to benefits entirely. To protect your rights, contact our workers’ compensation attorneys as soon as possible after your accident.
Contact Our Greensboro Workers’ Compensation Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been hurt on the job in Greensboro, NC, you may have multiple legal options for financial relief, including filing a workers’ compensation claim. Riddle & Riddle has 171+ years of combined experience and a proven record of recovering over $900 million (see disclaimer below) for injured workers.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Greensboro workers’ compensation lawyer.