What are the North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Injury Notification Requirements?
August 22 , 2023At the Ramsay Law Firm, P.A., our Charlotte workers’ compensation attorneys know that one of the most critical factors in pursuing a successful North Carolina claim is reporting that a workplace injury occurred.
The North Carolina Industrial Commission has outlined five essential steps to report a work-related injury to follow the workers’ compensation protocol and increase the chances of benefits approval from the start.
Important Steps to Report a Work-Related Injury in North Carolina
- Step One
Report your injury to your employer and seek appropriate medical treatment.
Depending on your occupation, your employer may have a healthcare provider onsite. If so, present yourself to that health provider. If you do not have access to an onsite healthcare provider, your employer may — outside of emergencies where it is not possible — designate which healthcare provider you may see to evaluate your work-related injuries.
If your employer does not designate a healthcare provider, appropriate healthcare may be obtained from your family doctor or a hospital emergency room.
- Step Two
Tell your healthcare provider that your injury is work-related.
When seeking medical care after a workplace accident, tell the healthcare provider about your injuries, how they happened, and your most serious concerns. Provide the physician with your employer’s name and contact information so the healthcare provider may bill the treatment as a workers’ compensation claim.
- Step Three
Inform the appropriate company personnel that you have suffered a workplace injury.
As soon as possible, inform an appropriate manager of your employer or company owner that you have experienced a work-related accident. If you can personally report your injury, do so. If you cannot report your injury because of your medical condition, have a family member, friend, or healthcare provider notify your employer immediately.
- Step Four
You have 30 days to provide written notice of your workplace accident and injuries.
Give written notice to your employer as soon as possible after the accident and within thirty days. A simple written statement giving the date of the accident and a brief description of the injury is all that is necessary. Keep a copy of the letter for your records.
- Step Five
Follow all your physician’s instructions for medical treatment.
A successful workers’ compensation claim requires medical proof that you suffered a workplace injury and are pursuing ongoing medical care, attend all appointments, and follow all your physician’s treatment requirements.
These five steps will ensure that your injury is reported correctly, you receive appropriate healthcare quickly, and your employer can initiate workers’ compensation medical benefits.
Have You Been Injured at Work in North Carolina?
Our dedicated Mecklenburg County workers’ compensation law firm provides free consultations to all employees who have suffered a workplace injury in North Carolina by calling 704-376-1616 or contacting us online.
A Voice For The Injured. Here Every Step of The Way.