When you get injured on the job, the last thing you want to consider is how to protect your rights to workers’ compensation. Unfortunately, failing to take necessary action on time after your accident could risk your claim. If you do not know what to do, get help from a workers compensation attorney Raleigh NC, who can protect your rights.

The need to notify your employer

Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that benefits workers injured on the job who cannot work. According to North Carolina law, employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance to ensure that coverage will be provided in the event of an accident.

Knowing that workers’ compensation is an insurance program helps explain why you notify your employer. This is because they can submit the claim to the respective insurance carrier. Insurance companies need their insureds to inform them of potential claims so that they can gather the necessary information required to evaluate the claim. Failing to report the claim to your employer ultimately means they will not be able to report it to their insurance carrier. So, it affects the insurance company’s opportunity to gather the information when available.

How long should you have to report your injury?

North Carolina law requires that an injured employee report their injury to their employer “immediately in the event of an accident, or as soon as possible. No compensation is payable unless such written notice is given within 30 days after the accident has happened.

In other words, you must report your injury to your employer as soon as possible but at least 30 days after the accident has caused your injury. You could lose your right to workers’ comp benefits if you don’t report your injury to your employer within 30 days.

If you need help with how to do it, a knowledgeable workers compensation lawyer Raleigh NC, can guide you on how to notify your employer about your injury.

Notice to your employer & the statute of limitations

Most legal claims have specific deadlines by which one must file the claim. In legal terms, these are called “statutes of limitations.” North Carolina law directs that all workers’ comp claims must be filed within two years of the date of the injury.

It is confusing as you have 30 days to inform your employer. The way these deadlines work is this:

  • Generally, you must notify your employer within 30 days, even if you decide to file within two years.
  • Even if you notify your employer within 30 days of the accident, you can only seek a claim for workers’ compensation after two years if your employer pays benefits voluntarily.

Notify the employer promptly for faster benefits.

An on-the-job injury can be both a medical emergency and a financial strain. To address this, workers’ compensation can cover medical expenses and a portion of lost income. To initiate the process, inform your employer about the work-related injury. Typically, your employer will file a claim with their workers’ comp carrier, allowing you to access benefits.

It’s crucial to note that workers’ compensation usually covers medical treatment from approved providers. Consult your employer and a workers comp lawyer Raleigh NC, to determine where to seek treatment, ensuring coverage for your expenses.

Mistakes to avoid when reporting a work injury

  1. Failing to Describe the Injury Cause– When reporting your work injury, describe the cause of your injury in detail. Rather than simply saying, “I was stacking boxes,” you must include key information like “A box fell on my foot, and I felt pain immediately.”
  2. Misrepresenting Any Facts – You mustn’t misrepresent any facts on your work injury report. If you say something untrue, it could lead to accusations of fraud and denial of benefits.
  3. Making Any Assumptions – When filing the work injury report, you should avoid making assumptions. It is okay if you don’t have all the facts, but never say something false or misleading.
  4. Waiting Too Long – Do not wait any longer than necessary to report a work-related injury. Unnecessary delays may cause unnecessary problems, and waiting too long can leave you without the benefits and compensation you deserve.

The Bottom Line

If you need help with your compensation claim, Laura Jenkins, an experienced and skilled workers compensation attorney Raleigh NC, is a phone call or an email away. Call the expert legal professional today at (919) 846-7766 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case. Rest assured, you will get the maximum benefits possible.