Matthews Workers Compensation Lawyer

Matthews Workers’ Compensation Attorney

A Matthews workers’ compensation lawyer can help employees who have suffered an injury on the job or who have developed an illness that was caused or aggravated by their employment. Injuries can happen at construction sites, factories, retail establishments, and office buildings throughout the Matthews area. 

North Carolina has a workers’ compensation system in place to provide benefits for medical care and time away from work for employees who are injured on the job. Ayers, Ayers and Dressler help injured workers who are looking for information about workers’ compensation claims and the application of state law to a workplace injury.

Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

The lawyers at Ayers, Ayers and Dressler serve clients all over North Carolina who have been injured at work or have workers’ compensation claims. We review cases involving injuries on the job, work-related diseases, and workers’ compensation benefits disputes. 

The process of evaluating a workers’ compensation claim includes reviewing medical records, employment history, and North Carolina workers’ compensation laws. We also represent employees who want to understand the workers’ compensation system and how it may apply to them should they become injured during the course of their employment.

Workplace Accidents That May Lead to Workers’ Compensation Claims

Workplace accidents can happen across a variety of job sites, including construction sites, warehouses, retail and grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and office spaces. On the job, an employee may sustain an injury as a result of a fall, equipment failure, repetitive motion, lifting heavy materials or objects, or a vehicle collision. 

North Carolina’s workers’ compensation system is a legal framework used to address medical treatment and other benefits for an employee who is injured while on the job. The facts surrounding the accident and the employee’s job responsibilities are typically considered when assessing a claim.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that private industry employers had around 2.5 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2023. North Carolina employers in private industry reported 64,200 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2024.

Benefits Available Under North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Law

Workers’ compensation law in North Carolina provides different types of benefits for injured employees. Benefits may include payment for medical treatment for a work-related injury and replacement of a portion of an employee’s wages while out of work during recovery. In certain cases, employees may also be entitled to compensation for permanent impairment due to an injury. 

The North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act and its implementing rules and regulations, including provisions in state law that define key terms related to compensable workplace injuries under the act, address these workers’ compensation benefits. The types and duration of these benefits can vary depending on the circumstances of the injury and the worker’s recovery and ability to return to work.

How Workers’ Compensation Claims Are Filed in North Carolina

In North Carolina, a workers’ compensation claim is typically filed by submitting the appropriate forms to the North Carolina Industrial Commission, the state agency that administers the workers’ compensation system. A claim is often initiated by filing Form 18, which provides notice to the commission that a workplace injury or occupational illness has occurred. 

The form generally includes information about the employee, the employer, and the circumstances of the injury. After a claim is filed, the employer or insurance carrier reviews the claim and makes a decision on whether to accept or deny the claim. The workers’ compensation system then follows procedures established by state law for evaluating the claim.

Disputes That May Arise in Matthews Workers’ Compensation Cases

While many workers’ compensation claims are not contested, sometimes there are disagreements. Disputes may arise as to whether the injury occurred during employment, whether medical treatment is related to the on-the-job accident, or if an employee is able to return to work. If so, the case may be subject to the dispute resolution process of the North Carolina Industrial Commission. 

These hearings could require the submission of medical records, employment records, and testimony related to the injury. Administrative hearings may take place before a deputy commissioner. The deputy commissioner would then consider evidence and issue a ruling based on North Carolina’s workers’ compensation law.

After a workplace injury, employees in Matthews often receive treatment at facilities such as Novant Health Matthews Medical Center before navigating the workers’ compensation process. If an injured worker prefers to see a different doctor, they may need to request approval from the North Carolina Industrial Commission before changing providers.

FAQs About Matthews, NC Workers’ Compensation Laws

Do All Employers in North Carolina Have to Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

In North Carolina, most employers with three or more employees are required to provide workers’ compensation coverage under the state’s Workers’ Compensation Act. Some businesses are exempt from workers’ compensation coverage based on the type of work being done or how the individual is employed. 

If you meet the statutory definition of an employer, you are required to provide workers’ compensation coverage for your employees. This coverage pays benefits to employees who are injured at work or develop an occupational disease.

Can Workers’ Compensation Cover Occupational Illnesses in Matthews?

In Matthews, occupational illnesses may also be covered by North Carolina workers’ compensation. An occupational disease is usually the result of exposure to risk factors commonly found in certain types of work. If you have an occupational disease, medical evidence, along with employment history and possible exposure to workplace risks, may be evaluated.

Are Independent Contractors Covered by Workers’ Compensation in North Carolina?

Independent contractors are typically excluded from workers’ compensation coverage in North Carolina as they are not deemed to be employees under the law. Nevertheless, legal factors may impact whether a worker is considered to be an employee or an independent contractor. Some of these factors may involve the degree of control, the nature of work, or the structure of the working relationship.

What Is the Role of the North Carolina Industrial Commission?

The North Carolina Industrial Commission is the North Carolina state agency that administers the workers’ compensation system. The commission establishes procedures for filing claims, presenting evidence, and resolving disputes arising out of injuries to employees and occupational diseases. The North Carolina Industrial Commission oversees the employers, insurance carriers, and the processing of workers’ compensation claims.

Contact a Matthews Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today

Employees in all types of industries can suffer workplace injuries in Matthews and throughout Mecklenburg County. North Carolina’s workers’ compensation program offers injured workers a legal avenue to seek relief from job-related injuries and illnesses. At Ayers, Ayers and Dressler, we help injured individuals learn more about filing a workers’ compensation claim. Schedule a consultation to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer today.