Newton Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Newton Workers’ Compensation Attorney

When you’ve been injured or fallen ill while performing your regular job duties, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits that cover your medical expenses and help replace your lost wages. Even though these benefits are available, they can be difficult to secure. If the insurance company tries to deny your claim, a Newton workers compensation lawyer can review your case and help you get the benefits you deserve.

Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

You are not required to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer to apply for your benefits, but there are many benefits to doing so. At Ayers, Ayers and Dressler, we understand the difficult situation you are in and the urgent need to cover these unexpected medical bills at a time when you are unable to work. Our team is dedicated to pursuing full compensation for you and your family. Our attorneys have a proven track record representing clients in and around Newton.

Workplace Injuries and Illnesses in North Carolina

Statistics for nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in North Carolina are gathered annually by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2024, there were a total of 16,900 injury or illness cases within the state and local government of North Carolina. Additionally, there were 64,200 cases of injury or illness within the private sector. Of these private sector cases, 20,700 required days away from work, while an additional 14,900 required a job transfer or restriction.

When filing a workers’ compensation claim in Newton, you have to submit your claim to the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC). Claims are handled by Deputy Commissioners who travel throughout the state. Cases in Newton are often heard by a Deputy Commissioner at the Catawba County Justice Center. Appeals are heard by the full commission at the headquarters location in Raleigh.

Steps For Workers Compensation Claims in Newton, NC

When you’ve been injured on the job or become ill as a result of your job tasks in Newton, NC, it is important to follow the appropriate steps to file your claim to prevent delays or your claim from being denied. There are a few simple steps you should follow when filing your claim:

• Report the injury or illness to your employer as soon as it happens: Your employer may have a specific healthcare provider they use for workplace incidents, or they may allow you to see any appropriate provider.
• Tell the healthcare provider that you see that the injury or illness is related to a workplace incident: Provide them with the name of your employer. This information allows them to bill the treatment as a workers’ compensation claim.
• Report the injury or illness to your manager as soon as you can: If you are unable to make the report yourself, have a family member or friend notify your manager.
• Within 30 days of the incident, provide written notice to your employer of the injury or illness. Provide a brief description of what happened, the injury or illness you sustained, and the date of the incident. Keep a copy for your record.
• Follow any instructions from your healthcare team to aid in your recovery: Keep records of any medical bills or correspondence about your case.

Within five days of initially reporting the incident, your employer is required to submit a Form 19 to the NCIC. They also have to provide you with a copy of Form 19 and a blank Form 18. You have to complete and submit Form 18 to the NCIC or risk forfeiting your right to seek medical and wage benefits.

FAQs About Newton, NC Workers Compensation Laws

How Does Workers Compensation Work in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, workers’ compensation benefits are provided by any company that employs three or more employees. These benefits provide for medical treatment and lost wages when an employee experiences a covered incident while performing their regular job duties. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, so workers are covered even if they are partially at fault for the incident.

Can a Hernia Be Covered Under Workers’ Compensation in Newton?

Yes, a hernia can be covered under workers’ compensation benefits in Newton, but there are specific medical and timeline criteria that must be met. The hernia must be the direct result of an identifiable work incident. The hernia must have appeared suddenly and caused pain. The employee has to prove that the hernia was not a pre-existing condition prior to the workplace incident.

What Can You Not Do While on Workers’ Compensation in Newton?

When you are on workers’ compensation in Newton, you should not engage in any activities that contradict your doctor’s medical restrictions. Performing tasks beyond your restrictions could worsen your condition or show that you are not as injured as you claim. You should also refrain from performing any side work that hasn’t been properly reported. Also, avoid sharing details of your case publicly on social media, as this could lead to your claim being discredited.

What Can I Do if My Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied in Newton?

If your initial claim for workers’ compensation benefits is denied in Newton, there are steps you can take to appeal the decision. Review the denial letter carefully. It should state exactly why your claim was denied. If needed, gather additional medical or employment evidence to refute the denial reasons. File a formal request, Form 33, for a hearing with the NCIC. Mediation is often required before a formal hearing is scheduled.

Which Injuries Are Not Covered Under Workers’ Compensation in Newton?

Even if an injury happens while on the job in Newton, some circumstances can prevent the injury from being covered under workers’ compensation. If the injury happened during your commute before or after work, it is unlikely to be covered. Injuries are also not covered if they happened as a result of fooling around, fighting, or breaking company safety protocols. Injuries that occur while the employee is intoxicated are also excluded.

Contact Ayers, Ayers and Dressler

When you are recovering from an injury or illness, you do not need the added hassle of dealing with the insurance company. A Newton work injury attorney can handle negotiations with the insurance company while you focus on recovering. Whether you are filing your initial claim or responding to a denied claim, our team at Ayers, Ayers and Dressler can help protect your interests. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.