North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
A sudden work injury could lead to expensive medical bills, missed time at work, and stress on the whole family. However, if you were hurt on the job in North Carolina, you may be eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits while you recover.
Table of Contents
- Why Choose Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers for Your Workers’ Compensation Case?
- Do You Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
- Common Workplace Accidents We Handle in North Carolina
- What Benefits Are Available Through Workers’ Compensation?
- Who Pays for a Workers’ Compensation Claim in North Carolina?
- How Long Do You Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in North Carolina?
- Why Workers’ Compensation Claims May Be Denied
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Speak With a North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
While the workers’ comp system is designed to provide financial relief for injured workers, the claims process can be complex and feel overwhelming without legal support. Our North Carolina workers’ compensation lawyers can guide you through this process, handling the legal and administrative steps while you focus on your recovery.
Call 800-525-7111 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our compassionate team today.
Why Choose Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers for Your Workers’ Compensation Case?
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers is a family-run law firm that has served North Carolina communities for over 40 years. We are committed to protecting the rights of injured workers throughout North Carolina with compassion, integrity, and relentless advocacy.
If you were hurt at work, our firm offers decades of experience and deep insight into workers’ compensation claims. Our attorney, Adam Smith is a board-certified specialist in workers’ compensation law, a credential recognized by the North Carolina State Bar and held by very few attorneys statewide (see disclaimer below). We use this insider knowledge to strengthen claims and fight for the benefits our clients need and deserve.
We know you may be facing financial hardships after a workplace injury. That’s why we offer our award-winning services (see disclaimer below) on a contingency fee basis. There is no upfront cost to work with us, and no fees unless we secure compensation for your claim.
Video Transcript
A board certified specialist in North Carolina is a lawyer who has met certain criteria to apply to the state bar to be considered an expert in that field of his practice. For example, our state bar has approved experts and specialist in the field of workers compensation, family law, trust and estates, social security disability, and criminal law. However, our state has not recognizedthe specialty in the work of personal injury. I think one of the reasons for that is because personal injury is so varied. It includes car accidents, truck accidents, slipfalls, and any type of general injury. Riddle and Riddle has a worker’s compensation specialist. His name is Adam Smith. If you were injured on the job, give us a call today.
Our Workers’ Compensation Case Results
| Recovery Amount | Case Context |
|---|---|
| $2,475,000 – Workers' Compensation | Secured a $2.475 million recovery for an undocumented immigrant who suffered serious injuries while working as a welder for a construction company. |
| $1,800,000 – Truck Accident & Workers' Compensation | Recovered $1.8 million for a client who was driving a truck for work when a dump truck crossed the center line and caused a devastating head-on collision. |
| $1,700,000 – Workers' Compensation | Obtained a $1.7 million settlement for an injured worker after mediation reached an impasse. Our attorneys took the case to trial, leading to a successful post-trial mediation and a favorable resolution. |
Read more about our case results in North Carolina here.
Testimonials From Injured North Carolina Workers
We are proud members of the communities we serve, providing legal support to our neighbors when they need it most. Here’s what some of our clients have shared about working with us:
Do You Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
To qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in North Carolina, you generally must meet three general criteria:
- Covered employer: North Carolina law requires any business that regularly employs three or more people to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Your employer must fall within this category.
- Employee status: Only legal employees qualify for coverage. Independent contractors generally do not receive these benefits. However, employers sometimes misclassify workers. The state looks at the actual control the employer has over your work, not just your job title.
- Work-related injury: Your injury must result from an accident that happened while performing your regular job duties or during the normal course and scope of your employment.
Common Workplace Injuries Covered
Dealing with a sudden injury can be difficult, but the workers’ comp system covers a wide range of physical conditions, such as these common injuries:
- Back injuries: Fractures, herniated discs, or severe muscle strains caused by heavy lifting or repetitive motions
- Head injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries resulting from falling objects or slips
- Broken bones: Fractures to arms, legs, or ribs due to machinery accidents or falls
- Burns: Thermal, chemical, or electrical burns suffered in industrial environments or kitchens
- Repetitive trauma: Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome that develop gradually over time from your daily tasks
No matter the type of injury you suffered, reporting the accident to your employer quickly is crucial to protecting your rights
Common Workplace Accidents We Handle in North Carolina
Our North Carolina workers’ compensation attorneys have helped injured workers navigate claims involving these common accidents:
- Construction accidents: Falls from scaffolding, trench collapses, or being struck by heavy equipment
- Slip and falls: Slipping on wet warehouse floors or tripping over poorly lit walkways
- Machinery accidents: Getting caught in unguarded conveyor belts or struck by malfunctioning industrial tools
- Warehouse accidents: Forklift collisions, falling inventory, or injuries from repetitive heavy lifting
- Manufacturing injuries: Repetitive assembly line trauma or crush injuries from heavy metal presses
- Electrical accidents: Severe shocks, arc flashes, or burns from exposed wiring and faulty machinery
What Benefits Are Available Through Workers’ Compensation?
After being injured in a workplace accident, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits that help ease the financial burden of the situation and support you and your family. These benefits may include:
- Medical compensation: Pays for authorized and reasonably necessary medical treatment intended to provide relief, effect a cure or lessen the period of disability
- Temporary total disability: Provides wage-replacement benefits when a compensable injury prevents you from working
- Temporary partial disability: May provide benefits when you return to work but earn less because of your injury
- Permanent partial disability: May provide compensation for permanent impairment or reduced wage-earning capacity, depending on the circumstances
- Death benefits: May provide compensation to eligible dependents and help cover qualifying burial expenses
Our work injury lawyers in North Carolina will carefully gather medical records, proof of income, and other crucial details to pursue the full disability benefits available and protect you from an unfair claim denial.
Video Transcript
What benefits can you receive for North Carolina workers compensation claim? I’m Jean Riddle with Riddle and Riddle Injury Attorneys. I’ve been doing this for over 40 years. And the benefits that you can receive for such an injury are as follows. Number one, the insurance carrier will pay for all of your approved medical treatment. Number two, the insurance carrier will pay your lost wages at the rate of twothirds of your average weekly wage until your approved doctor returns you to work. And number three, the insurance carrier will pay for any permanent injury to any body part that is assigned by your treating approved physician or pay it for scarring and disfigurement. At Riddle and Riddle, we know each case is different and that’s why we had a North Carolina State Bar certified workers compensation specialist to help win maximum recovery for you. Give us a call today. We’re here and we’re ready to help you get maximum compensation for your North Carolina workers compensation injury case.
Who Pays for a Workers’ Compensation Claim in North Carolina?
Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company pays for your approved claim benefits, not your employer directly. North Carolina operates under a no-fault system. This means you generally do not need to prove employer negligence to receive financial help.
Even if a workplace accident was partially your fault, you still qualify for vital medical and wage support. However, insurance adjusters may try to dispute claims to protect their bottom line, arguing that your injury is not work-related or questioning your employee status.
Because insurance companies may look for reasons to minimize payouts, working with a skilled personal injury lawyer in North Carolina can help protect your rights. An attorney can handle complex disputes and fight for full and fair compensation on your behalf.
How Long Do You Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in North Carolina?
You generally have two years from the date of your injury to file an official claim with the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC) by submitting Form 18. Missing this strict two-year deadline can completely bar you from receiving benefits. However, you must act much more quickly to report the accident and notify your employer in writing within 30 days.
Reporting your injury immediately is vital to your case. Delaying the report gives insurance companies a reason to doubt the severity or cause of your injury, which often leads to claim denials.
Why Workers’ Compensation Claims May Be Denied
Receiving a claim denial can feel devastating, but it’s a common hurdle many people face. Insurance companies heavily scrutinize applications and may issue denials over technicalities. Your claim might be rejected due to these common factors:
- Late reporting: Failing to notify your employer in writing within the required 30-day window
- Lack of evidence: Missing the essential medical documentation that links your injury directly to your job
- Employer disputes: Your boss claiming the injury happened outside of work or resulted from misconduct
- Medical inconsistencies: Insurance doctors arguing that your pain stems from a pre-existing condition
- Missed deadlines: Failing to file official state forms within the strict two-year legal limit
Can You Appeal a Denied Workers’ Compensation Claim in North Carolina?
A workers’ comp denial does not mean your case is over. The state provides a formal appeals process in which we can present new evidence, correct administrative errors, and fight for the financial support you rightfully deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if My Employer Denies My Injury Happened at Work?
If your employer disputes your claim, you can appeal the denial by filing an official Form 33 request for a hearing with the North Carolina Industrial Commission. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you gather medical records and witness testimony to prove your injury occurred on the job.
Can I Receive Workers’ Compensation if the Accident Was My Fault?
Yes, North Carolina workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you are covered even if your own mistake caused the accident. However, benefits will likely be barred if the injury was caused by intoxication or an intentional desire to harm yourself.
Can I Be Fired for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
It is illegal for an employer to fire or retaliate against you simply for filing a legitimate workers’ compensation claim. If you are terminated for exercising your rights, you may have grounds for a separate Retaliatory Employment Discrimination Act (REDA) lawsuit.
How Much Does a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Cost?
Our workers’ compensation lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Connect with our team to learn more about our fee structure and what you can expect when you work with us.
How Long Does a Workers’ Compensation Case Take?
Straightforward workers’ compensation claims in North Carolina may begin paying medical and wage benefits within a few weeks. However, if your claim is denied or involves complex medical disputes, the appeals process can take anywhere from several months to over a year. Working with an experienced attorney can streamline the process and help you avoid unnecessary delays or denials.
Can Someone Other Than Your Employer Be Held Liable?
Yes, if a negligent third party, such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or careless driver, caused your accident, you can file a separate personal injury lawsuit against them. This third-party claim allows you to pursue additional compensation, like pain and suffering, which workers’ comp does not cover.
Can I Still Be Eligible for Workers’ Compensation if I Am Not a Citizen?
Yes, under North Carolina law, all legal employees qualify for workers’ compensation benefits regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. Undocumented workers are fully entitled to medical treatment and lost wage compensation if they are injured on the job.
Speak With a North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
Let our family provide you with the legal support you need after a work injury. Our bilingual intake team is available around the clock to answer your questions and explain your rights at no cost to you. You can start your case without an in-person meeting and stay connected by phone, text, email, or video. With locations across North Carolina, including Raleigh, we are available to meet wherever is most convenient for you.
Call 800-525-7111 or complete our online form to schedule your free and confidential case review today.
Free Case Review
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you shouldn’t have to carry the burden alone. Riddle & Riddle provides the support you need to seek a fair outcome.
