Experiencing an illness or injury at the workplace often feels destabilizing for employees. The workers’ compensation process can be confusing, and state laws make it hard for workers to understand what their rights are. Working with a skilled Claremont workers’ compensation lawyer can help ensure your legal rights are never violated.
At Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, Attorney Helton has committed the rest of his professional life to protecting his neighbors and community members during their most difficult times in life. With over 23 years of experience and background in insurance defense law, Attorney Helton is well-equipped to handle any workers’ compensation case. Our team serves those injured in Burke County, Catawba County, Caldwell County, and the surrounding areas.
In 2023 in North Carolina, there were 2.0 cases of workplace injury or illness per 100 full-time employees. Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure a safe working environment, but often fail at this task. This happens due to improper training, staffing shortages, and pressures for meeting daily work quotas. Unfortunately, these work environments are only getting more focused on profit as years go by.
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of North Carolina was created to ensure a safe work environment for residents. Employers have to follow state safety and health standards and allow inspections of the workplace. During these inspections, they have to provide transparent information about their safety practices.
The Hickory MSA ranks 5th in the United States for the percentage of the workforce employed in manufacturing, at 30.4%. Top companies in the area include Corning Optical Communications, CommScope, and Pierre Foods Inc.
These positions face higher risks than other fields, as workers deal with heavy machinery and chemicals daily. When an employee gets injured or ill because of their job, they have 30 days to report it to their employer, both verbally and in writing.
In North Carolina, almost every worker has the right to workers’ compensation benefits. They don’t need to prove that they weren’t at fault for their injury. However, this also means that employees can’t open any legal cases against their employers for incidents that happen. Workers’ compensation provides:
While workers can’t file claims against their employer, they may pursue a case against a third party. For example, if a faulty machine led to your injury, you may be able to open a case against the machine’s manufacturer. It’s important to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer in Claremont in these cases, as they can help you navigate the legal process.
If your claim is denied by your employer, you have the right to request an appeal. Employers may attempt to deny benefits if they believe the injury or illness wasn’t work-related. An experienced lawyer will be able to help you fight this.
Past clients have been able to entrust their case with the legal team at Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, knowing we’ll fight tirelessly for the most favorable outcome. Contact our office today to set up your first appointment and learn how we can help you. We’re dedicated to providing upstanding legal guidance to our community.