There are many misconceptions surrounding Workers’ Compensation! Workers comp lawyers hear the myths surrounding these benefits daily. We have debunked 5 of the most common myths surrounding these benefits.
Myth #1: Small Businesses in North Carolina Don’t Need to Offer Workers’ Compensation
Many people wonder if small businesses have Workers’ Compensation Insurance. You might think workers’ comp is a big corporate business thing. The reality is that North Carolina Law states that any business with three or more employees needs to offer worker’s compensation to all of its employees.
Myth #2: Independent Contractors and Work-from-home Employees in North Carolina Cannot Receive Workers’ Compensation
This myth has been ubiquitous since the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a valid question because remote work was somewhat of an unexplored area before the pandemic. How does workers’ comp law apply when you’re at home but also at work at the same time?
The North Carolina Office of State Human Resources says that employees are eligible for workers’ compensation while working from home if they are injured during designated working hours.
This area of law will likely see additional changes in the months and years to come. If you have been injured while working from home, schedule a consultation with one of our workers’ compensation attorneys to understand the latest laws and how they apply to your situation.
Myth #3: My Employer will File all Necessary Forms to Protect my Claim
Your employer is only required to file a Form 19 report of injury to the Industrial Commission. The Form they file does not protect your claim!! You must remember to file a notice to your employer and a Form 18 with the industrial commission. Do not think your employer will take care of everything, and you can sit back and relax. You will need to stay on top of it!
Myth #4: Injured Employees can Seek Care at Any Healthcare Facility
One common misconception is that you can seek care at any healthcare facility. If you are a state employee, you must seek medical care at the approved medical care facilities. Your supervisor has to schedule a medical care appointment if you get injured. If you don’t go to an approved facility, you will be ineligible for workers comp benefits. If you have suffered an injury at work, you need to go straight to your supervisor to report it so they can discuss your next steps.
Myth #5: You can File a Workers’ Compensation Claim Any Time after an Injury
You cannot file your claim at any time after you’ve had your injury. If you wait too long to file your claim, you will miss out on your worker’s compensation benefits. In North Carolina, you must file your claim within two years of your injury. It sounds like a long time, but the bills pile up quickly. File a workers comp claim as soon as possible.
Talk to a Workers Compensation Attorney
These are just some of the myths and questions concerning workers’ compensation. The best thing to do is to talk with an experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorney. They can answer your questions and help you get the workers comp benefits you need to get back on your feet. Schedule a consultation today!
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