W O R K E R S ' C O M P E N S
A T I O N B E N E F I T S Our firm has offered
thorough, caring and effective representation since 1975. We listen. We work
hard. We achieve results. We fight for the benefits you deserve!  | 1. Who can receive workers' compensation benefits?
- A person who suffers an injury by accident while on the job or
who becomes sick with an occupational disease can receive workers' compensation
benefits. An occupational disease is a disease which is caused, at least in part,
by your work. Lung disease caused by exposure to cotton dust at work and carpal
tunnel syndrome caused by repetitive motion at work are examples of occupational
diseases. 2. What benefits will I receive if I become eligible for
workers' comp? You should receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage for
each week that you are unable to work because of your injury or disease. All of
your medical bills should be paid and you should be reimbursed for your mileage
for travel to obtain medical treatment. If you have a permanent injury as the
result of your injury or disease, you should receive compensation for that as
well. The compensation for permanent injury is based either on the disability
rating given by your doctor or on your loss in earning capacity, whichever is
more favorable to you. If you are totally and permanently disabled by your injury
or disease, you can receive lifetime benefits under the Act. 3. How do I
apply for workers' comp? You can obtain a claim form by calling the Industrial
Commission in Raleigh at 919-807-2500. | 4. When should
I apply for workers' comp? To protect your rights, you should give immediate
notice to your employer if you suffer an injury by accident or learn that you
may have an occupational disease. You should also obtain and file a claim form
right away. 5. When should I see a lawyer about my workers' comp claim?
Even if you are receiving benefits from the workers' comp insurance carrier, it's
a good idea to consult a workers' comp lawyer to make sure your case is being
handled properly and that you understand your rights. If your claim has been denied
or if you are not receiving all the benefits to which you are entitled, you should
contact an experienced workers' comp lawyer right away. We do not charge for an
office conference in workers' compensation cases. 6. What does it cost to
hire a lawyer? Our fee is one-fourth of the benefits we help you to obtain.
No fee is charged if we are unable to help you obtain benefits. Win or lose, you
would be responsible for our out-of-pocket expenses such as the cost of obtaining
medical records and reports. |