Rutherfordton Repetitive Stress Injury Lawyer

Rutherfordton Repetitive Stress Injury Attorney

Experiencing a repetitive stress injury in the workplace is unfortunately common. These injuries can happen to anyone at any time, but it can be hard to prove to employers that the injury was caused by work. An experienced Rutherfordton repetitive stress injury lawyer can secure the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.

Hire a Repetitive Stress Injury Lawyer

The four legal professionals at Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler have been working in law for over 100 combined years. They realized quickly the devastation that injuries can cause on individuals, so they have focused their practice on injury law. We offer initial consultations to anyone needing legal guidance after an injury in Rutherfordton.

Types of Workplace Repetitive Injuries

The top three employers in Rutherford County are the Rutherford County Board of Education, the County of Rutherford, and Walmart. These industries require frequent use of motions such as typing, lifting, folding, scanning, and carrying. Types of repetitive stress injuries include:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome: This occurs when pressure builds up on the median nerve in the wrist. This can cause tingling, numbness, or weakness in the hand and fingers.
• Bursitis: This happens when the fluid-filled sacs that cushion major joints, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips, or knees, become inflamed.
• Tendonitis: This occurs when a tendon becomes irritated or inflamed. It often affects the shoulders, knees, elbows, wrists, or heels.

In 2023, 40,900 private industry injuries required days away from work, a job transfer, or work restrictions in North Carolina. Repetitive stress injuries often take months, if not years, to heal. These injuries can cause intense damage to those who suffer from them, and they may need to take time off from work to rest, get physical therapy, or even undergo surgery.

Injured employees deserve to have support when healing, but the workers’ compensation system can be difficult to navigate for those experiencing severe pain. A skilled Rutherfordton repetitive stress injury attorney can handle a repetitive stress injury claim while an injured person focuses on recovery.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits in North Carolina Repetitive Stress Injury Cases

Because of how gradual repetitive stress injuries are, it can be difficult to notice until the symptoms are lasting and severe. When this happens, and you recognize that the injury was caused by work, you’ll need to inform your employer within 30 days. Failing to do so can bar you from getting benefits.

If your employer approves your claim, benefits will start right away. These include:

1. Payment for medical treatment: Through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance, a medical provider will be chosen for you. In cases of emergency, the injured employee can seek their own provider. If this happens, be sure to inform your employer as soon as possible. Medical treatment can include rehabilitation services, along with compensation for travel to receive medical care.
2. Partial wage payment: Typically, wages are paid weekly and are two-thirds of the injured employee’s average weekly wage. These payments continue until the worker can return to work. If the worker can no longer work and the injury results in permanent disability, the partial wage payments may continue indefinitely.

What to Do If Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied in Rutherfordton

In 2021, 9% of adults in the United States experienced a repetitive stress injury within a three-month survey period that year. These injuries are incredibly common. However, because of the slow nature of a repetitive stress injury, workers may find it difficult to prove that their injury was caused by their workplace. Employers often deny claims that involve this type of injury. It’s important to hire a repetitive stress injury lawyer to fight on your behalf.

If your claim gets denied, it can feel destabilizing. It may seem like your job and rights are at stake. An experienced repetitive stress injury lawyer in Rutherfordton can review your case and see what laws apply to your situation.

During this time, you can request a hearing to appeal the denial. You may also still seek medical treatment, even if your claim is initially denied. You will only be billed directly if your case results in a final denial.

FAQs About Rutherfordton, NC Repetitive Stress Injury Laws

What Evidence Can Prove That My Repetitive Stress Injury Was Caused by Work?

To prove that your injury was the result of work, it’s important to gather extensive evidence. This can include medical records and bills, along with any prescribed medication. Photographs of the injury and what caused it can bolster your claim, along with any eyewitnesses who’ve seen or heard anything of relevance. It’s recommended that the employee also keep detailed notes that record the dates and times of their injury limitations and how it impacts daily life.

Can My Employer Fire Me for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Rutherfordton?

Your employer cannot fire you for filing a workers’ compensation claim in Rutherfordton. This is considered wrongful termination, which is illegal. However, wrongful termination can be difficult to prove without strong evidence. Like most other states, North Carolina is an “at-will” state. This means employers don’t need a specific reason to fire someone. If you suspect that you’ve been wrongfully terminated, it’s important to act quickly and contact a lawyer.

Can I File a Legal Case Against My Employer for the Workplace Injury?

Because employees have the legal right to receive workers’ compensation benefits, they also cannot open a legal case against their employer for the incident. However, employees could file a personal injury or third-party claim if the injury was caused by a party other than their employer. For example, if a faulty work tool led to your injury, a case may be opened against the tool’s manufacturer.

How Can a Repetitive Stress Work Injury Lawyer Help Me?

A lawyer can help in many ways, depending on the specific details of your situation. They can gather evidence to prove that your injury was the result of work, especially if your claim was wrongfully denied. They can also handle negotiations with the insurance company to make sure you are treated fairly and receive full benefits. If your employer tries to make you go back to work before you recover, a lawyer can fight it.

Choose a Trusted North Carolina Law Firm

The lawyers at Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler work exclusively on a contingency fee basis. This means they only accept payment if they secure compensation for your case. Contact our office today to learn how we can support you during these difficult moments in life.