Navigating Workers’ Compensation When You Work for a Small Business in North Carolina

At Ramsay Law Firm, our Charlotte workers’ compensation attorneys understand employees’ unique challenges when navigating workers’ compensation claims—especially those employed by small businesses. In North Carolina, small business employees often wonder if they are covered under workers’ compensation and how to proceed after a workplace injury.

Here’s what you need to know about your rights, responsibilities, and how our firm can help.

Are Small Businesses Required to Provide Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

In North Carolina, any employer with three or more employees is required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This applies regardless of whether the business is a small operation or a larger corporation. However, there are exceptions, such as certain agricultural businesses with fewer than ten employees and sole proprietors who are not required to cover themselves.

If you’re unsure whether your small business employer has workers’ compensation coverage, the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC) offers tools to verify this information.

Common Challenges for North Carolina Small Business Employees Filing Workers’ Compensation Claims

While the law mandates coverage, small business employees may face unique obstacles when filing workers’ compensation claims.

They may include, but are not limited to:

• Lack of Awareness: Small businesses might not adequately inform employees about workers’ compensation rights or claim procedures.
• Misclassification: Employers may misclassify workers as independent contractors, rather than employees even though this worker qualifies as an employee under the Workers’ Compensation Act.
• Fear of Retaliation: Employees might worry about job security after filing a claim, even though retaliation is illegal under North Carolina law.
• Limited Resources: Small businesses may lack a dedicated HR team to streamline the claims process, which can cause delays or confusion.

At Ramsay Law Firm, we’ve seen these challenges firsthand and are committed to helping employees overcome them, starting with a free consultation.

Steps to Take If You’re Injured While Working at a Small Business in North Carolina

If you suffer a workplace injury while working for a small business in North Carolina, follow these steps to protect your rights:

• Report the Injury Immediately

Notify your employer that you were injured on the job as soon as possible after the injury. North Carolina law requires that workplace injuries be reported within 30 days, but reporting sooner is always better to ensure timely documentation.

• Seek Medical Attention

Visit a doctor to assess and treat your injury. Your employer may have a designated medical provider for workers’ compensation cases in North Carolina. If your employer does not direct you to a specific doctor, seek care from a provider of your choice.

• File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

Submit a Form 18 to the North Carolina Industrial Commission. This official claim form for workers’ compensation benefits must be filed within two years of the injury.

• Keep Detailed Records

Document everything, including how the injury occurred, your medical visits, and communications with your employer.

• Contact an Experienced North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Attorney

If you’re facing challenges with your workers’ compensation claim, don’t wait. Contact Ramsay Law Firm today for a free consultation, and let us take the weight off your shoulders. Together, we’ll fight for the benefits you deserve while you focus on what matters most: getting better.

From filing your initial claim to appealing a denial, we’re here to guide you through the process with care, experience, and determination.

What If Your North Carolina Employer Doesn’t Have Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

In rare cases, small businesses in North Carolina may fail to carry the required workers’ compensation insurance. If this happens, you may still have options. The business can pay the required benefits or face stiff penalties for failing to have insurance. Additionally, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit against the employer for negligence.

Ramsay Law Firm can help you navigate these situations, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.

How Ramsay Law Firm Supports Small Business Employees

At Ramsay Law Firm, we are dedicated to standing up for injured workers, regardless of the size of their employer.

When you trust us with your case, you can expect:

• Personalized Attention: We understand that small business employees often feel overlooked. We treat your case with the urgency it deserves.
• Experienced Advocacy: With years of experience in North Carolina workers’ compensation law, we know how to fight for your rights, even against uninsured or uncooperative employers.
• Compassionate Guidance: Workplace injuries can be overwhelming, especially when navigating a complex claims process. We’re here to provide clear, straightforward advice every step of the way.

Working for a small business should never mean sacrificing your rights after a workplace injury. At Ramsay Law Firm, we are passionate about helping injured employees secure the benefits they need to recover and move forward.

If you’ve been injured on the job, don’t wait—contact our dedicated Mecklenburg County workers’ compensation law firm. We provide free consultations to all employees who have suffered workplace injuries in North Carolina. Call 704-376-1616 or contact us online.

Let us help you navigate the workers’ compensation process and fight for the benefits you deserve. A Voice For The Injured.  Here Every Step of The Way.