Raleigh Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

Common Types of Workplace Accidents

A work accident, also known as a workplace accident or occupational accident, is an unplanned and undesirable event that occurs during the course of employment, resulting in harm, injury, or illness to an employee. These accidents can happen in any type of work environment and can range from minor incidents to severe injuries or even fatalities. Work accidents can have various causes, including unsafe working conditions, human error, equipment malfunctions, or a combination of factors.

Common types of work accidents in the Raleigh area include:

• Slips, Trips & Falls: These accidents can occur due to wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, cluttered workspaces, or inadequate lighting.
• Falls from Heights: Accidents involving falling from ladders, scaffolding, rooftops, or other elevated surfaces can lead to serious injuries.
• Struck by Objects: Employees can be injured when they are hit by falling or moving objects, such as tools, equipment, or materials.
• Caught in or Between Objects: This category includes accidents where a person gets caught or trapped between objects or machinery, leading to injuries.
• Overexertion: Injuries resulting from overexertion, such as lifting heavy objects, can cause strains, sprains, or musculoskeletal disorders.
• Electrical Accidents: Accidents involving electrical shocks, burns, or electrocution can occur when working with faulty wiring or electrical equipment.
• Chemical Exposures: Contact with hazardous substances or chemicals without proper protection can result in injuries, burns, or long-term health issues.
• Vehicle Accidents: Employees who operate vehicles as part of their job may be involved in accidents, leading to injuries or fatalities.
• Machinery Accidents: Injuries can occur when operating machinery or equipment, especially if safety precautions are not followed.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome can develop over time due to repetitive motions or prolonged exposure to certain activities.
• Violence in the Workplace: Work-related violence, including physical assault or threats, can lead to injuries and psychological trauma.

Common Types of Work Injuries

Workplace injuries can vary widely in nature and severity, impacting employees physically, mentally, or both.

Some of the common types of cases that our Raleigh workplace injury lawyers can take on include:

• Sprains & Strains: These injuries often result from overexertion, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in repetitive motions. They can affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
• Fractures & Broken Bones: Falls, collisions, or accidents involving heavy machinery can lead to fractures and broken bones.
• Cuts & Lacerations: Contact with sharp objects, tools, or machinery can cause cuts and lacerations. Improper handling or lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) can contribute to these injuries.
• Bruises & Contusions: Impact from objects or surfaces can cause bruises and contusions. Workplace incidents involving falls or being struck by objects may result in these injuries.
• Burns: Burns can occur due to contact with hot surfaces, open flames, chemicals, or electrical sources. Workers in industries such as manufacturing or food service may be at a higher risk.
• Eye Injuries: Exposure to harmful substances, flying debris, or accidental contact with tools can cause eye injuries. Lack of proper eye protection is a common contributing factor.
• Electrical Shock Injuries: Employees working with electrical equipment or wiring may be at risk of electrical shock injuries, ranging from mild shocks to severe electrocution.
• Respiratory Injuries: Inhalation of harmful substances, such as dust, fumes, or toxic gases, can lead to respiratory issues or conditions.
• Head Injuries: Falls, falling objects, or collisions can result in head injuries, ranging from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
• Amputations: Accidents involving machinery or equipment with moving parts can lead to traumatic amputations of fingers, hands, or other body parts.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): Prolonged and repetitive movements can lead to RSIs, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.
• Psychological Injuries: Workplace stress, harassment, or traumatic events can contribute to psychological injuries, affecting mental health and well-being.

Workers’ Compensation Laws in Raleigh, North Carolina

Workers’ compensation in North Carolina is a system designed to provide benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. The primary purpose of workers’ compensation is to ensure that injured workers receive prompt medical care and financial assistance without the need for lengthy legal battles. The system also protects employers from certain lawsuits related to workplace injuries.

In North Carolina, most employers with three or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This includes full-time, part-time, and temporary workers. Certain types of Raleigh workers may be exempt, such as agricultural laborers, domestic servants, and some employees of smaller businesses.

Some of the common types of workers’ comp benefits include:

• Medical Treatment: Injured employees are entitled to receive necessary medical treatment for their work-related injuries. Employers or their insurance carriers generally select the healthcare provider.
• Lost Wages: Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits may be provided to employees who are unable to work due to their injuries. These benefits are usually calculated as two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage.
• Permanent Disability Benefits: If a workplace injury results in a permanent impairment, the employee may be entitled to permanent disability benefits. The amount of compensation depends on the nature and extent of the impairment.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: In some cases, injured workers may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services to assist them in returning to suitable employment.
• Death Benefits: In the unfortunate event of a work-related fatality, dependents of the deceased employee may be entitled to death benefits, which include compensation for funeral expenses.

In the event of a work-related injury or illness, the injured employee must promptly report the incident to their employer within 30 days. The employer is then responsible for filing a workers’ compensation claim with their insurance carrier.

Disputes related to workers’ compensation benefits are typically resolved through the North Carolina Industrial Commission. This administrative body oversees the workers’ compensation system and may conduct hearings or mediations to resolve disputes.

In some cases, injured workers or employers may seek legal representation to navigate the Raleigh workers’ compensation process, especially if there are disputes or concerns about the benefits provided.

Why Choose Our Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Raleigh?

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. At Lanier Law Group, P.A., we have a team of skilled negotiators who will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive fair and just compensation for your workplace injury. Our goal is to maximize your benefits and relieve the financial burden associated with medical expenses and lost wages.

In the unfortunate event that your claim is denied, our Raleigh workers’ compensation attorneys are prepared to represent you in the appeals process. We will carefully review the reasons for denial, gather additional evidence if necessary, and present a compelling case on your behalf to secure the benefits you rightfully deserve.