Outer Banks Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
The law protects workers. People who are injured on the job are often entitled to financial compensation that helps them make ends meet and get necessary health care until they are fully healed and can go back to work.
Unfortunately, things do not always go as planned. Workers’ compensation insurance carriers often deny claims, saying that the injury didn’t happen at work or that it is not as bad as a person says. Medical care can be wrongly denied or ended altogether if the condition gets worse.
If you experience problems getting the compensation you need and deserve, hiring an experienced lawyer is your best option. At my Southern Shores law firm – Vincent Law Firm, P.C., I represent people in North Carolina who need legal help with workers’ compensation claims. These include the residents of Dare County, Camden County and Currituck County in the Outer Banks area. My clients have experienced a range of injuries, from back or neck injuries to torn rotator cuffs and injuries to other body parts.
For more than 30 years, I have served my North Carolina community as a workers’ compensation attorney. I know the reputations of the health care professionals, attorneys and judges practicing here, and I can help you understand what to expect. I can also guide you in the right direction so that matters proceed as smoothly as possible – avoiding the traps and heartaches that can accompany the claims process.
Legal Services On A Contingency Fee Basis
The sooner you contact me, the better I am able to provide sound guidance. By preparing for mediation and other critical stages of the workers’ compensation process, It will allow me to aggressively protect your rights, interests and help pursue the benefits you deserve.
Fees come from a standard, set percentage of the compensation you recover. That means it doesn’t cost you any more to hire me on the first day you need help rather than later on after matters get out of hand. That also means we both have an incentive to achieve the most favorable outcome as quickly and effectively as possible.
Board-Certified Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Of all the lawyers in North Carolina, only a small fraction are recognized as certified specialists by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. I am one of them. Since November 17, 2000, I have been board-certified by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization in the area of workers’ compensation.
I was one of the first lawyers in our state recognized as a certified specialist in this area of law. In order to qualify, I had to demonstrate special knowledge, skill and proficiency in workers’ compensation law. I sat for an additional exam and received recommendations from my peers. I met strict requirements, including demonstrating substantial practice experience and in-depth knowledge.
Because I am a certified specialist, you can trust that you are turning to a lawyer with in-depth knowledge of and experience in workers’ compensation law – someone who has the skill necessary to effectively resolve even the most complex and challenging workers’ comp matters.
Answering Frequent Questions About Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation can be a lifeline for employees who get injured on the job, offering financial support and medical benefits during challenging times. Below are answers to some of the most common questions employees ask about workers’ compensation in North Carolina.
What is the deadline for filing a workers’ compensation claim in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, you must file a workers’ compensation claim within two years of the date of your workplace injury or the diagnosis of an occupational illness. This involves submitting Form 18 to the North Carolina Industrial Commission.
Additionally, you are required to notify your employer of the injury within 30 days of the incident. Consulting an attorney can ensure that you meet all necessary deadlines and preserve your rights.
Can I be fired for filing a workers’ compensation claim in North Carolina?
No, it is illegal for an employer to fire you solely for filing a workers’ compensation claim. North Carolina’s Retaliatory Employment Discrimination Act (REDA) protects employees from retaliation for exercising their legal rights. This includes termination, demotion or other adverse actions.
However, since North Carolina is an at-will employment state, employers may terminate workers for other lawful reasons unrelated to the claim. If you suspect retaliation, a lawyer can guide you in filing a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Labor. This must be done within 180 days.
How long does it take to receive workers’ compensation benefits?
Workers’ compensation benefits in North Carolina typically begin after a seven-day waiting period. If your disability lasts longer than 21 days, you may receive retroactive benefits for the initial waiting period.
The exact timeline for receiving benefits can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the responsiveness of your employer and their insurance provider.
How do North Carolina workers’ compensation laws differ from those in other states?
Workers’ compensation programs across the nation bear many similarities. However, North Carolina does have one notable difference. State law requires employers with three or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
Other states require more or fewer employees before mandating employers to provide workers’ compensation coverage. Other differences may involve coverage thresholds, benefit limits or procedural requirements.
Discuss Your Workers’ Compensation Claim With Me For Free
Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance and support – every day counts in a workers’ compensation claim. Consultations are free and confidential. Contact me by calling 252-489-2200 or completing my online contact form to speak with an Outer Banks attorney about your workplace accident.