Fayetteville Workers Compensation Attorney
One moment, you are stocking shelves during your early shift at the supermarket or operating a jackhammer at a construction site, and the next thing you know, you slip and fall or get struck by a piece of machinery and become injured. Suffering a workplace injury or illness is one of the most terrifying experiences an individual can face, and you may be left with more questions than answers. A Fayetteville workers’ compensation lawyer can help you file a claim for benefits.
At The Sumwalt Group, our team of highly skilled and professional workers’ compensation lawyers has been doing this necessary work for over 50 combined years. We understand what an uncertain time this is as you find yourself facing devastating pain, injury, and medical bills, all while being unable to work and earn a wage. We have handled more than 300 workers’ compensation cases and are ready to get to work to secure you the benefits you deserve.
Filing a claim for workers’ compensation may, at first, seem like filing any other kind of insurance claim. However, when it comes to workers’ compensation, there are added layers of complexity, thanks to your employer’s role in the overall process. Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging, and it is vital to work with an attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the compensation that will aid your recovery.
Understanding the Need for Workers’ Compensation in Fayetteville
Fayetteville is the sixth-largest city in the state of North Carolina and boasts a wide range of employment opportunities. With these opportunities, however, comes the risk of suffering a workplace injury. In fact, between 2021 and 2022 alone, 57,616 workers’ compensation claims were opened in North Carolina. In 2023, 53% of the total number of claims filed in the state were for those employed in the trades, transportation, and health services sectors.
At The Sumwalt Group, we have extensive experience assisting clients with a wide range of workers’ compensation claims. Some of the most common reasons for these claims include:
- Burn injuries: These injuries can cause devastating damage and lasting pain, often resulting in significant medical expenses. No matter how serious your burn injuries are, The Sumwalt Group can help ensure you receive the compensation necessary to recover.
- Construction or industrial site injuries: Construction and industrial sites are among the most dangerous workplaces, with a high risk of severe injuries. Our team understands the hazards of these environments and is prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Amputations: Losing a limb due to a workplace accident is one of the most traumatic injuries a worker can experience. Beyond the physical and emotional toll, there are significant medical costs associated with care, rehabilitation, and prosthetic replacements.
- Knee injuries: Injuries to joints such as the knees, elbows, or ankles can cause long-term complications. These injuries may result from a single traumatic event or repetitive tasks performed over time.
- Shoulder and back injuries: These injuries can cause severe pain, limited mobility, and long-term disability. Whether they occur due to sudden trauma or repetitive motions, they can make it difficult to continue performing your job.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Brain injuries can lead to temporary or permanent disabilities, leaving victims unable to work for extended periods or even permanently. Securing compensation is essential to covering medical care and ongoing support.
- Repetitive stress injuries: These injuries develop over time due to repetitive motions and strain. Proving that a repetitive stress injury is work-related can be challenging, making legal representation crucial.
- Workplace illnesses: Jobs that involve exposure to hazardous chemicals or substances can result in serious illnesses. Prolonged exposure may lead to conditions such as cancer, for which workers’ compensation benefits may be available.
- Third-party claims: If your injury was caused by a negligent third party, such as a subcontractor or job site visitor, you may have grounds for a third-party personal injury claim in addition to your workers’ compensation benefits.
Benefits Available Under Workers’ Compensation Insurance
If you suffer a workplace injury or illness, you may be unable to work for a period of time. Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to provide financial support during this difficult time. These benefits include:
- Medical expenses: Workers’ compensation insurance can cover all medical costs related to your workplace injury or illness, including hospitalization, diagnostic tests, surgeries, medical devices, medications, and rehabilitation care.
- Lost wages: If you are unable to work due to your injury, workers’ compensation benefits can help replace a portion of your lost income. However, ensuring you receive the full benefits you are entitled to can be challenging, which is why legal assistance is often necessary.
- Job retraining: If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous type of work, workers’ compensation can provide job retraining to help you transition into a new role and regain financial stability.
- Survivor benefits: If a loved one dies due to a workplace accident, workers’ compensation can provide financial assistance for burial and funeral expenses, helping to ease the financial burden on surviving family members.
Whatever your case entails, the team at The Sumwalt Group is committed to helping you recover the maximum compensation available. You can trust us to fight for your rights and secure the benefits you deserve.
Serving Clients Throughout
North Carolina
FAQs
A: After suffering a workplace injury in Fayetteville, it is vital that you report the injury to your employer as soon as you possibly can. In fact, according to state law, you must do so in writing or orally within 30 days of the injury, or you can lose out on your chances to recover benefits through their workers’ compensation insurance.
A: If you suffer an injury while at work, there are certain steps you need to take to protect your own health and safety and also the security of any future workers’ compensation claim. These steps include notifying your employer right away of the injury, filing all the necessary paperwork in the correct manner, seeking medical attention as soon as you can, even if you do not feel hurt, and contacting an attorney.
A: Having an attorney on your side is vital to the success of your workers’ compensation claim. Your attorney can review the details of your accident and assess all potential liability or negligence to see if you have a chance for a third-party claim, explain to you your rights, help you fill out and file all claim paperwork, and implement strategies for ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
A: There are several reasons why your claim for workers’ compensation might get denied in North Carolina. These reasons can include that your claim was missing certain forms or required documentation, that there was a lack of necessary evidence, such as medical records or witness testimony, or that your injury is not severe enough to meet the requirements of workers’ compensation.
Speak to a Trusted Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Fayetteville Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a workplace injury or illness in Fayetteville, North Carolina, there is no time to waste. The clock is ticking, and you need to ensure you receive the benefits you are due. Contact our offices today to schedule a free consultation with our team, and let us do everything in our power to secure the maximum compensation available to you.