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Jun 15, 2026
It is crucial for everyone in every industry to know what to do after a workplace injury in North Carolina. Almost every employer in the state is required to have workers’ compensation insurance, and most regular employees are covered by this insurance if they are hurt on the job. However, the workers’ compensation claim-filing process is more challenging than many injured workers expect, so you should hire a workplace injury lawyer to assist with your case.
What to Do After a Workplace Injury in North Carolina
The first steps you take following a workplace injury in North Carolina will be crucial to your recovery. If your employer has workers’ compensation insurance, this insurance can be an invaluable economic lifeline for you and your family, covering the cost of the medical treatment you require and providing ongoing disability benefits while you are unable to work during your recovery.
The first thing you should do is file a report about the injury with your supervisor. The North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC) requires an injured worker to report their injury within 30 days; otherwise, their employer can deny responsibility for the injury. Even if you are initially unsure of the severity of your injury, you should report it right away to preserve your right to file a workers’ compensation claim if this becomes necessary for your case.
You should seek medical treatment for the injury right away. If you suffered a serious injury in a traumatic accident, you will likely be taken to the hospital for emergency care. While you can see any available doctor for treatment of a workplace injury in an emergency, you will likely need to see a workers’ compensation doctor for a functional capacity evaluation before you can file your claim for workers’ compensation benefits.
It’s a good idea to hire a workplace injury lawyer at the outset of your case. Hiring legal counsel means you will be ready to address any unexpected complications that arise with your employer, the workers’ compensation doctor, or the insurance carrier. If your employer mishandles your case in any way, your attorney will know how to respond. If you disagree with the doctor’s assessment of your condition, your attorney may help you get a second opinion from another doctor.
When it comes to dealing with the insurance company, most insurers attempt to settle injury claims for as little as they can justify. A successful workers’ compensation claim in North Carolina typically yields full medical expense coverage for all treatment the victim requires for their work-related injury or illness, and the victim can also receive disability benefits for the time they are unable to work. The amount they receive will depend on their disability rating.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded about 64,200 reports of nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses from private sector employers statewide in 2024. Of these reports, about 35,700 were severe enough to result in missed days of work, duty restrictions, or job transfers. Most victims of workplace injuries in North Carolina are eligible to claim workers’ compensation benefits, but they often need help securing a fair settlement. Some also have additional legal options.
Ultimately, every workplace injury case is unique, and the most important thing any injured worker can do after their injury is hire a workplace injury lawyer at their first opportunity. The Law Office of William T. Corbett, Jr., PLLC has years of proven experience handling workplace injury claims for clients throughout North Carolina, so reach out to our firm as soon as possible after your accident to learn how we can help with your case.
FAQs
Can I Sue My Employer for a Workplace Injury in North Carolina?
You typically cannot file a claim against your employer for a workplace injury in North Carolina except under very specific conditions. Workers’ compensation insurance is meant to function as a sole remedy for an injured worker and works on a “no fault” basis, so you do not need to prove your employer was negligent to obtain your benefits. However, if a third party is responsible for your injury, you may have grounds to file a personal injury claim against them.
What Is My Workers’ Compensation Claim Worth in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the value of your workers’ compensation claim depends on the severity of your injury and how much it limits your ability to work and earn income. If your claim is successful, the insurance carrier should cover all medical expenses related to the injury and pay ongoing disability benefits while you recover. The amount you receive each week will be a percentage of the average weekly wage you earned prior to the accident.
What Is a Third-Party Personal Injury Claim?
A third-party personal injury claim is a civil claim for damages filed against a party outside of your work that caused your injury. For example, if you were driving for your job and a speeding driver hit you, this would qualify as a work-related accident, and you would be eligible to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, you could file a third-party personal injury claim against the speeding driver to seek compensation for pain and suffering.
When Should I Hire a Workplace Injury Lawyer?
You should hire a workplace injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. If you believe you are eligible to claim workers’ compensation benefits and the injury is severe enough to prevent you from working for an extended time, it’s a good idea to secure legal counsel you can trust right away so they can help you claim benefits. Your attorney will be ready to resolve any unexpected issues you encounter throughout your case proceedings.
The aftermath of a workplace injury in North Carolina can be confusing, but the right attorney can help you understand your legal options and guide you through your recovery efforts. The Law Office of William T. Corbett, Jr., PLLC has years of proven experience helping injured workers claim their workers’ compensation benefits. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help with a North Carolina workplace injury claim.
