If you filed a workers’ compensation claim after getting hurt on the job, you may receive a letter from the adjuster asking you to attend an independent medical examination (IME). You’re probably asking, “What is an IME in workers’ comp?” The request to attend an examination can feel confusing and stressful. You might wonder what…
Are you thinking about taking a trip while recovering from a workplace injury? You may wonder, “Are you allowed to travel while on workers’ compensation?” Even a short vacation could raise questions if it interferes with your treatment or vocational rehabilitation (job search) or appears inconsistent with your medical restrictions and inability to work. Before…
Has your employer told you there’s no job available that matches your work restrictions after an occupational injury? What if your work restrictions are ignored by your employer? Those decisions on the part of the employer affect your workers’ compensation claim. Your entitlement to ongoing medical treatment should not change, but your right to continued…
Workers’ compensation insurance coverage provides paid medical treatment and other benefits to employees who sustain job-related injuries or illnesses. However, employers sometimes dispute valid workplace injury claims. An employer and their workers’ compensation insurance carrier might argue that you had a pre-existing condition and weren’t hurt at work, or that your injuries are less severe…
When you’ve suffered an injury on the job and your workers’ compensation claim has been denied or disputed, the next step may be a hearing before the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC). You may feel intimidated by the prospect of attending your hearing and testifying. However, with preparation, support, and a clear understanding of what’s…
When you get injured on the job in North Carolina, you can file a workers’ compensation claim to cover your medical expenses and lost wages. However, not all workers’ comp claims proceed smoothly. Your employer’s insurance company might dispute your injuries or deny your claim. A workers’ compensation trial (or hearing) may sometimes be necessary…
Employees who are injured on the job in North Carolina may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits until they are released from medical treatment and return to work. However, some employers and their insurance administrators may attempt to stop workers’ compensation checks before an injured worker can resume work. If an employer’s insurance company does…
When an injury happens while on the job, you face several pressing concerns beyond your physical recovery. Medical bills pile up, lost wages create financial strain, and uncertainty about your legal options can feel overwhelming. Understanding the distinction between personal injury claims and workers’ comp benefits can help you seek the maximum compensation you deserve….
If you were injured on the job in North Carolina, workers’ compensation benefits can provide the medical treatment and wage loss benefits you need while you recover. However, understanding how and when workers’ compensation will pay these benefits to you can be confusing, especially if this is your first time using the system. And the…
North Carolina’s workers’ compensation system offers substantial benefits to help you recover after a work-related injury or illness. However, there are also complicated rules governing these benefits and how much compensation you can receive. One crucial concept to know is maximum medical improvement, or MMI, in workers’ comp claims. What Does Maximum Medical Improvement Mean?…
