The Workers’ Compensation Claims Process

Charlotte, North Carolina, Workers’ Compensation Law Firm

Many people are confused about the workers’ compensation claims process. The process can be lengthy, there are strict deadlines that must be met, and a lot of paperwork and documentation is needed. Anyone who has been injured on the job should consult an experienced workers’ comp attorney for advice about seeking benefits, and for help completing the workers’ comp claim process.

For general information about the workers’ compensation claims process, read the information below. Otherwise, contact The Sasser Law Firm to learn about your specific legal options after suffering a work injury.

The Workers’ Compensation Claims Process

If you have been injured at work and wish to pursue workers’ compensation benefits, these are the steps you should take:

1. Seek legal counsel as early as possible. You will find it helpful to get advice and guidance from an attorney who understands the workers’ compensation process in North Carolina.

2. Notify your supervisor. Workers who have been injured on the job are required to notify their company/supervisor of the injury. Prepare a written notification of an injury, sign it, give it to your employer, and save a copy for your records.

3. File workers’ compensation forms. In North Carolina, you will need to file a Form 18 Notice of Accident to report the injury and submit it to the Industrial Commission.

4. Seek medical treatment. This is a commonsense but critical step. Not only are you seeking medical treatment for your own health, the medical records serve as documentation and evidence of your injury.

1. Respond to the workers’ compensation insurance company. At this point, the workers’ compensation insurance company will have either accepted or denied your claim. If the claim was denied, you can appeal the decision. This involves requesting a hearing and filing a Form 33 with the Industrial Commission. Filing a Form 33 starts the appeals process. If your appeal is denied, you can still continue to seek appeals up to the North Carolina Court of Appeals. The Sasser Law Firm can give you advice and information about the appeals process.
2. The entire process of filing a workers’ comp claim can last months. This is another reason you should seek assistance from a lawyer if you have been injured on the job. Generally, insurance companies are quicker to respond if the claimant is represented by an attorney. Additionally, an attorney will be familiar with the various steps involved in filing a claim.

How Do I File A Workers’ Comp Claim? Contact Us Today.

For more information about filing a workers’ comp claim in North Carolina, contact The Sasser Law Firm to schedule a free consultation. Call 866-770-8681 today.