What if my employer in N.C. doesn’t cooperate with my claim?

On Behalf of | Sep 25, 2020 | Workers' Compensation |

If you suffer an injury in the workplace in North Carolina, you may be considering workers’ compensation under the North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act. You probably know that you will need to report the injury to your employer verbally and in writing as soon as possible — waiting to report your injury beyond 30 days will typically disqualify your claim.

But what if you’ve done everything you can only to encounter an uncooperative employer? You do not have to settle for unfair treatment, and you have recourse under state law.

Your employer does not provide medical treatment

To receive workers’ compensation, injured workers typically need to seek treatment from a medical provider the employer or insurance company has approved.

This requirement relies on the employer to provide you with a list of approved medical providers. If your employer fails or refuses in an emergency to provide you with this necessary information, you may seek treatment from any hospital or doctor you choose, but you will need to reach out to the North Carolina Industrial Commission as soon as possible afterward to have them approve the treatment.

Your employer does not report your injury

Your employer has the responsibility to report your injury to the North Carolina Industrial Commission in a timely manner. If your employer fails or refuses to follow through on this responsibility, you may report your injury directly to the commission. You may also have legal grounds to pursue recourse and hold your employer accountable.

Your employer refuses to acknowledge the claim

If your employer denies liability for payment, you have the right to receive notice of the precise reason for the denial. If your employer is not responsive, you have the right to pursue your claim with the North Carolina Industrial Commission.

For most disputes, you may request a hearing with the commission, and you may hire a legal professional to represent you.

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