Hickory Workers Compensation Death Benefits Lawyer

Hickory Workers Compensation Death Benefits Attorney

Unexpectedly losing a loved one is one of the most devastating experiences someone can go through. In the aftermath of that loss, you may find that you face immediate financial hardships. If the death was caused by a work-related injury, surviving loved ones can receive death benefits through workers’ compensation. A Hickory workers compensation death benefits lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and pursue the support your family deserves.

Trusted Death Claims Attorneys Representing Hickory, NC

The workers’ compensation lawyers at Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler understand that clients come to us during incredibly difficult times in their lives. We take that responsibility seriously, especially when a client has suffered the tragic loss of a loved one.

Workers’ compensation carriers are obligated to pay fair benefits following a work-related death. It is an unfortunate reality that they do not always follow the law and the terms of their policies. That’s where we come in. Our dedicated injury and workers’ compensation lawyers can take the necessary steps to help ensure you receive the full scope of benefits you are owed under North Carolina law.

Important Death Claims Statistics in Hickory and North Carolina

Serious and sometimes grave workplace accidents are an unfortunate reality in Hickory, which has a civilian labor force of about 170,736 workers. Neighborhoods like Mountain View, Oakwood, and Kenworth contribute to this active workforce.

North Carolina’s construction industry remains especially dangerous, with 23 worker fatalities reported in both 2022 and 2023. There are more construction-related deaths than in any other sector in the state. Nationwide, workplace safety continues to be a concern, with approximately 5,283 fatal injuries reported in 2023, averaging nearly 15 deaths every day.

Benefits You May Be Owed

When a worker dies due to a job-related injury or illness in North Carolina, eligible survivors may receive death benefits under workers’ comp. These benefits typically include wage replacement at two-thirds of the deceased’s average weekly wage for a period of 500 weeks from the date of the death of the employee. Eligible family members may include children, spouses, and financially dependent individuals.

Funeral and burial expenses (up to $10,000) may also be reimbursed through benefits following a successful death claim. The state allows for even longer benefits in cases where the surviving spouse is disabled. The goal of benefits is to ease the financial burden on surviving loved ones.

Common Challenges Surviving Loved Ones Face When Seeking Death Benefits

Surviving loved ones often face surprising challenges when seeking death benefits. These can include benefit delays, denials, and other barriers. Insurers may dispute the applicant’s eligibility or reject a claim over incomplete documentation. These and other challenges can stall compensation. Grief can also make it difficult to navigate strict deadlines and legal requirements. These challenges can add emotional and financial strain during an already devastating time.

Why You Need Legal Representation

Navigating the state’s workers’ compensation system following the death of a loved one can be both emotionally and logistically challenging. Many surviving spouses undergo the application process only to be dealt an emotional blow when the insurer denies their claim. Having legal representation can play a critical role in ensuring that your claim is taken seriously and you aren’t unjustly denied the benefits that you are owed.

Legal representation also affords you a trusted source of support and reliable information about your rights and options during a difficult time. If your claim is denied for unjust reasons, your Workers Compensation Death Benefits attorney in Hickory, NC can represent you through the appeals process so you do not lose out on critical benefits that you are owed.

FAQs About Hickory, NC Workers Compensation Death Benefits Laws

Q: Who Can Receive Death Benefits Through Workers’ Comp?

A: In North Carolina, death benefits may go to the surviving spouse, dependent children, or financially dependent family members of a worker who dies from a job-related injury or illness. The law defines eligibility based on dependency at the time of death. Filing on time and submitting complete documentation ensures your family receives the benefits you are owed under workers’ comp.

Q: Does Workers’ Comp Provide Death Benefits?

A: Yes, workers’ comp in North Carolina provides death benefits to dependents of workers who die as a result of a job-related injury or illness. Benefits may include weekly wage payments and funeral expense coverage. Surviving family members must file within the state’s deadline and show the death was directly connected to the worker’s job.

Q: What Do Death Benefits Cover?

A: Workers’ comp death benefits typically include partial wage replacement and funeral expenses. In North Carolina, dependents may receive weekly payments based on a percentage of the worker’s average earnings. Funeral costs may also be reimbursed up to a state-mandated limit. These benefits are designed to reduce the financial burden on families after a work-related death.

Q: How Hard Is It to Receive Workers’ Comp Death Benefits?

A: It can be difficult if there are questions about whether the death was caused by work duties. Employers or insurers may dispute the claim, especially without clear medical evidence or timely reporting. Strong documentation, official cause of death records, and proof of dependency all play a role in securing full death benefits for eligible family members.

Contact Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler and Secure the Death Benefits You Are Owed

An unexpected death is a tragic ordeal, but it doesn’t have to leave you facing serious financial hardships. With representation from Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler, you can receive critical benefits that allow your family to pay for funeral costs, past medical bills, and future lost wages from the deceased.

Our law firm understands the extreme hardships that can follow a wrongful death, and we are honored that surviving loved ones in Hickory choose our firm to help them through these difficult times. No one should have to worry about whether they will receive the benefits they are owed under workers’ compensation.

Together, we can make sure that your family receives the benefits it needs to move forward. Contact our office online today to schedule your free consultation so we can explain how our legal team can help.