Steps to Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim

If you’ve been injured on the job, you are probably familiar with the workers’ compensation system. However, if you’re like most people, you’ve never had to file a claim for benefits, and you may have questions about the process. At the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, our knowledgeable team of North Carolina workers’ compensation lawyers is here to help you understand every aspect of the process. We can explain all the steps to filing a workers’ compensation claim in North Carolina and prepare a compelling claim on your behalf.

The workers’ compensation system in North Carolina allows workers to obtain certain benefits from their employer after a workplace accident or occupational disease. To qualify for workers’ comp benefits, you do not need to prove that your employer or anyone else was responsible for your injuries; however, there are strict rules you must follow. Below is a brief overview of the workers’ compensation process in North Carolina.

One of the first—and most important—things you should do after a workplace accident is to report your injuries to your employer. Failing to report an accident can not only make recovering benefits more difficult, but in some cases, it can actually prevent you from receiving workers’ compensation benefits altogether. If your injuries are such that you cannot provide immediate written notice to your employer, be sure you do so within 20 days of the date of the accident.

Keeping documentation of everything is crucial when filing a workers’ compensation claim. From communication with your employer to medical bills to forms your employer asked you to fill out, make sure you ask for a copy of everything and keep all documents in a separate file, preferably somewhere other than your workplace.

Reporting an accident is a good first step; however, without proof of your injury, it will be challenging to effectively pursue a claim. While you can see receive a second opinion from your own doctor, it is important that you go to the doctor selected by your employer (or their workers’ compensation insurance company). Also, your employer is responsible for reimbursing you for your travel costs, so keep track of your mileage.

Even if you disagree with the diagnoses provided by the doctor, it is essential that you comply with any treatment plan. Failure to follow a doctor’s orders may put your workers’ compensation claim in jeopardy. If a doctor doesn’t seem to take your injuries seriously, you can obtain a second opinion.

Under North Carolina Law, you have two years to file a workers’ compensation claim. Do not assume that your employer will file all the necessary paperwork on your behalf; there are certain forms that you are responsible for completing.

The workers’ compensation system isn’t always intuitive, and even the savviest of employees have questions about the steps to filing a workers’ compensation claim. An experienced Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyer can ensure that your claim is prepared correctly and that you receive the full amount of benefits you deserve.

If you were recently hurt on the job and looking to learn more about the steps to filing a workers’ compensation claim, reach out to the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, today. For over a decade, the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, has successfully obtained meaningful compensation on behalf of countless clients and their families, helping them move on with their lives after a serious workplace accident. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with a Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyer, give us a call at 704-405-2580. You can also reach one of our Concord workers’ compensation lawyers at 704-918-4747. We take all workers’ compensation cases on a contingency basis, meaning we will not bill you for our services unless we can connect you with compensation for what you’ve been through.