Why Hiring an Attorney Makes All the Difference
If you’ve been injured at work in North Carolina or South Carolina and your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, you may be feeling frustrated and unsure about what to do next. You might even be wondering: Does hiring a workers’ compensation attorney really make a difference? The answer: ABSOLUTELY! Hiring an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can dramatically change the outcome of your case—and help you get the benefits you are legally entitled to.
Here’s how an attorney can make a difference when your workers’ compensation case is denied.
Why Workers’ Comp Claims Get Denied
First, understand that denials are common—even when the injury is legitimate. Insurance companies often deny claims for reasons like:
- Claiming the injury didn’t happen while working
- Alleging your condition was pre-existing
- Arguing you failed to report the injury in time
- Disputing whether your medical treatment is necessary
In many cases, denials happen because of incomplete paperwork, lack of documentation, or technical mistakes. A workers’ compensation attorney in North Carolina or South Carolina can review your denial, identify the problem, and develop a plan to challenge it.
Building the Strongest Case Possible
Winning a denied workers’ compensation claim depends heavily on the evidence you present.
An experienced attorney will:
- Gather comprehensive medical records
- Obtain opinions from treating doctors
- Secure statements from witnesses
- Prepare and file necessary documents with the North Carolina Industrial Commission or the South Carolina Workers’
Compensation Commission
Having a workers’ compensation lawyer ensures that no critical evidence is overlooked and that your claim is presented in the Strongest possible light.
Navigating Complex Workers’ Compensation Procedures
Appealing a denied workers’ comp claim in North Carolina or South Carolina involves strict deadlines and specific legal procedures.
- In North Carolina, you typically must file a Form 33 to move your case forward.
- In South Carolina, you must request a hearing by filing a Form 50 with the Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Missing a deadline or filing incorrect paperwork can destroy your case. A skilled workers’ compensation attorney will handle all filings, track deadlines, and guide you through hearings and mediations—giving your case the best chance of success.
Standing Up to the Insurance Company
Insurance companies have experienced adjusters and defense attorneys working to limit what they pay. Without a workers’ compensation lawyer, you are at a serious disadvantage. When you hire an attorney, you have a professional who will:
- Represent you in settlement negotiations and hearings
- Cross-examine the insurance company’s doctors
- Challenge unfair denials
- Fight to recover full medical and wage loss benefits
With a workers’ compensation attorney on your side, the insurance company knows they can’t take advantage of you.
How Hiring a Workers’ Comp Attorney Improves Your Outcome
Studies show that workers who hire attorneys typically receive higher total settlements and greater medical benefits than those who try to handle their cases alone. An attorney can help you recover:
- Past-due disability payments
- Payment for necessary medical treatment
- Compensation for permanent impairments
- A full and fair settlement if your case resolves
By hiring a North Carolina or South Carolina workers’ compensation attorney, you can focus on recovering physically—while your lawyer focuses on recovering the benefits you deserve.
Final Thoughts
If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied in North Carolina or South Carolina, you don’t have to accept the insurance company’s decision. Hiring an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can make the difference between walking away with nothing—or securing the benefits you need to move forward.
At The Law Offices of Bradley H. Smith, we fight for injured workers every day.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you turn your denial into a successful recovery.