Suffering an injury at work can often be overwhelming. Along with the physical pain, you may face medical bills, missed wages, and uncertainty about your rights. In North Carolina, workers’ compensation laws are designed to provide benefits for injured workers, but navigating the process can be complex. If you’re unsure when to hire a lawyer, here’s some guidance to help you consider the factors involved and make the best decision.
When to Seek Legal Help
You should consider hiring a lawyer if:
- Your claim is denied partly or entirely. Employers or insurance companies might dispute your injury or claim, leaving you without the benefits you need.
- You face retaliation. If your employer has treated you unfairly or threatened termination because you filed a claim, legal support can protect your rights.
- Your benefits are delayed or insufficient. Sometimes payments don’t arrive promptly, or they don’t cover your medical bills and lost wages adequately.
- You have a permanent disability. These cases often involve complex calculations for compensation and may lead to disputes.
- You need to appeal a decision. Workers’ comp appeals can be daunting, and a lawyer can significantly increase your chances of success.
The Initial Consultation
Once you decide to consult a lawyer, you’ll likely start with an initial consultation. In NC, the initial consultation on workers’ comp cases is free, so it’s a no-risk opportunity to explore your options, learn about your rights and learn about the benefits you may be entitled to. This meeting allows the attorney to evaluate your case and determine if they can assist you.
Here’s what to expect:
- Discussion of Your Injury: Be prepared to describe how the accident happened, the nature of your injury, and its impact on your ability to work.
- Review of Documentation: Bring any medical records, incident reports, correspondence with your employer or insurer, and other relevant documents.
- Clarification of Your Goals: The attorney will ask what you hope to achieve, whether it’s ensuring fair compensation, appealing a denial, or resolving another issue.
Questions You May Be Asked
During the consultation, the attorney might ask:
- When and where did the injury occur?
- Did you report the injury to your employer? If so, when and to whom?
- Have you seen a doctor? What were the results of your medical evaluation?
- Has your employer or insurance company offered any benefits or denied your claim?
- Do you have a history of prior injuries or medical conditions?
Questions You Should Ask the Attorney
Take this opportunity to evaluate the lawyer’s qualifications and approach.
Here are some key questions:
- What is your experience with workers’ compensation cases in North Carolina?
- What are your fees? (Attorneys for injured employees work on North Carolina workers’ compensation cases on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win.)
- What is your strategy for handling cases like mine?
- How often will we communicate, and who will be my primary point of contact?
- What is your success rate with similar cases?
Moving Forward
Hiring an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can often relieve stress and help you navigate the legal process with greater confidence. Look for someone who listens to your concerns, answers your questions clearly, and has substantial experience with North Carolina workers’ compensation laws. Remember, you deserve to focus on healing while your attorney fights for your rights.
