Suffering a work-related injury that results in permanent disability can be life-altering. It can significantly impact your ability to work, earn a living, and maintain your quality of life. In North Carolina, the workers’ compensation system provides permanent disability benefits to eligible individuals who have sustained permanent impairments as a result of their work-related injuries.
If you or a loved one is dealing with a permanent disability due to a work-related injury, understanding your rights and options is crucial.
What Is Covered Under Disability in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, permanent disability benefits are provided to workers who have sustained permanent impairments that affect their ability to work and earn wages. Permanent disabilities can include the loss of a limb, permanent paralysis, severe neurological disorders, or chronic pain resulting from a work-related injury.
It is important to note that disabilities must be directly related to the work injury and must be deemed permanent by a medical professional. Understanding the specific criteria for permanent disability is important when pursuing these benefits. And, when you Get a Raleigh worker’s comp lawyer to fight for you, you can ensure to get the compensation you are entitled to for workplace injuries.
How Are Disability Benefits Calculated?
The calculation of permanent disability benefits in North Carolina is based on several factors, including the extent of the permanent impairment, the injured worker’s average weekly wage, and the specific body part affected by the disability.
The North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act provides guidelines for determining disability ratings based on the American Medical Association’s impairment rating guidelines. These ratings are then used to calculate the compensation owed to the injured worker. The duration of benefits depends on the severity and permanence of the disability.
How to Obtain North Carolina Disability Benefits?
To obtain permanent disability benefits in North Carolina, it is crucial to follow the appropriate steps and adhere to the requirements set forth by the workers’ compensation system. The process typically involves the following:
- Report the injury: Notify your employer immediately after sustaining a work-related injury. Failing to report the injury within a specified timeframe may jeopardize your ability to receive benefits.
- Seek medical attention: Obtain appropriate medical treatment for your injuries from an authorized healthcare provider. They will evaluate your condition, provide necessary medical documentation, and assign an impairment rating if applicable.
- File a claim: Complete and file Form 18, also known as the Notice of Accident to Employer and Claim of Employee, with the North Carolina Industrial Commission. This form is an official claim for workers’ compensation benefits and initiates the process.
- Attend Independent Medical Examination (IME): In some cases, the insurance carrier may request an independent medical examination to assess your condition and provide an impartial evaluation. Attend the IME as required, but it is advisable to consult with your attorney before attending.
- Negotiate or request a hearing: Depending on the circumstances of your claim, negotiations with the insurance carrier may be necessary to settle. You may request a resolution hearing before the North Carolina Industrial Commission if an agreement cannot be reached.
- Work with an experienced attorney: Throughout the process, it is crucial to work with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can guide you, advocate for your rights, and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
What Does Workers Compensation Cover In North Carolina?
Workers’ compensation in North Carolina is designed to provide crucial benefits and financial protection for workers who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Understanding what workers’ compensation covers in North Carolina is essential for employers and employees.
- Medical expenses: Workers’ compensation covers the costs of reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to the work-related injury or illness. This includes doctor visits, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and other medical services required for recovery.
- Lost wages: Workers’ compensation provides wage replacement benefits if an employee cannot work due to a work-related injury or illness. These benefits typically cover a portion of the employee’s average weekly wage and help compensate for the income lost during recovery.
- Temporary total disability benefits: Temporary total disability benefits are available to workers who cannot work due to work-related injury or illness but are expected to recover and return to work. These benefits provide wage replacement during recovery until the employee can resume work.
- Permanent partial disability benefits: In cases where a worker sustains a permanent impairment but can still work in some capacity, permanent partial disability benefits are provided. These benefits compensate for the permanent loss of bodily function or limitations resulting from a work-related injury or illness.
- Death benefits: If a work-related injury or illness leads to the death of an employee, workers’ compensation provides death benefits to the surviving dependents. These benefits may include compensation for funeral expenses and ongoing financial support to dependents, such as spouses and children.
It is important to note that workers’ compensation benefits and coverage can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case.
Don’t Let Your Injuries Hold You Back!
Permanent disability benefits in North Carolina are essential for workers who have sustained permanent impairments due to work-related accidents and injuries. Understanding the criteria for disability, the calculation of benefits, and the process of obtaining these benefits is crucial when navigating the workers’ compensation system.
Don’t let your injuries hold you back from the financial and medical support you need; explore your options for permanent disability benefits and take the necessary steps to secure your future.
