Vale Workers Compensation Lawyer

Filing for Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Vale, North Carolina

Employers must maintain workers’ compensation benefits to help North Carolina workers who are hurt, suffer illness, or are killed. In North Carolina, there were approximately 2.2 nonfatal illnesses/injuries reported in 2022 per 100 full-time workers. This rate is lower than the average of 2.7 nationwide. Also, 2023 saw about 177 employees killed in North Carolina work-related incidents.

It’s crucial to report your accident or illness in writing to your employer as soon as possible. File NCIC Form 18 to let your employer know you’re seeking NC workers’ compensation insurance benefits.

An attorney in Vale can help with the filing process for benefits, discuss your claim value, and explain your legal options. While you can work alone, an attorney can help increase the likelihood of success in receiving benefits, as many people are initially denied compensation. An attorney can make the overall process less complicated and provide you with peace of mind throughout.

Avoiding Mistakes With Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

Sometimes, people make mistakes that likely could have been avoided, especially if they hired an experienced attorney. People often do the following:

• Trust insurance companies have their interests in mind. This is not the case, as insurance companies are notorious for only paying the absolute minimum.
• Trust insurance companies to clear them for work. However, some insurance companies push workers to get right back to work before they’re ready. If they deny your benefits claim, it could force you back to work because you need the money.
• Don’t realize they’re under surveillance. Insurance companies often try to gather photos and videos of you to attempt to deny your claim and reduce your financial recovery.
• Assume workers’ compensation is going to be automatic. If you fail to file before the deadline or don’t submit enough documentation linking your injuries or illness to your job duties, you might be denied compensation. Workers’ compensation should cover your medical bills, wage loss, and more. But you may be able to negotiate for substantially more than what’s initially offered, especially if you work with an attorney.
• Have been mislabeled as an independent contractor. Some employees intentionally misclassify employees under North Carolina’s Workers’ Compensation Act to try to avoid having to pay workers their state-mandated workers’ compensation benefits. An attorney can help discuss your eligibility for benefits further.

These are just a few examples of avoidable mistakes. At Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, we can explain your rights and help you make informed decisions about your workers’ compensation claims and legal options.

Contact an Experienced Vale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton has helped clients seek their maximum workers’ compensation benefits.

Just off I-40 in Hickory, North Carolina, and near the Thomasville Furniture Warehouse, our office is convenient for our neighbors in Vale. Contact us to schedule an initial consultation with a trusted Vale lawyer.