Even If Your Case Has Been Accepted in North or South Carolina
If your workers’ compensation claim has been accepted in North Carolina or South Carolina, you might feel like everything is under control. Your medical care is covered, you’re receiving weekly benefits while you’re out of work, and your injury is recognized. However, even when a claim is accepted, significant challenges can arise. Hiring an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can be critical to protecting your rights and maximizing your benefits.
Here’s why legal representation is still essential:
1. Insurance Companies May Underpay Your Benefits
Just because your claim is accepted doesn’t mean you’re receiving everything you’re owed.
Injured workers in both states are entitled to weekly wage loss benefits, medical coverage, and compensation for permanent injuries. Insurance companies often miscalculate wages, undervalue claims, or fail to explain additional benefits like mileage and prescription reimbursements and the possibility of vocational rehabilitation. An experienced attorney will review your case and demand full and proper compensation.
2. Medical Treatment Can Still Be Denied or Delayed
Even with an accepted claim, necessary medical treatment like surgeries, therapies, or specialist referrals can be delayed or denied. Whether your case is in North Carolina or South Carolina, the insurance company must approve reasonable treatment recommended by your doctor. An attorney can file motions or hearing requests with the Industrial Commission or the Workers’ Compensation Commission to force approvals and fight for timely care.
3. Settlements Require Careful Negotiation
Most accepted cases eventually lead to a settlement offer. Settling without legal advice can cause you to lose future rights to medical care or accept less compensation than your case is worth. A skilled workers’ compensation attorney can properly value your claim, protect your future medical rights, and negotiate the best possible outcome.
4. Permanent Work Restrictions Create New Problems
If your injury leads to permanent work restrictions, returning to your old job—or any job—might not be possible. Insurance companies may pressure you to return too soon or try to terminate your benefits. An attorney can defend your eligibility for wage loss benefits, help with vocational retraining, and challenge inappropriate job offers.
5. Workers’ Compensation Law is Complex
Both North Carolina and South Carolina have strict deadlines, filing requirements, and complex procedures. Missing a deadline or failing to file a necessary form could jeopardize your benefits, even in an accepted case. An experienced attorney will ensure all rules are followed, protect your ongoing medical and wage benefits, and guide you through any disputes.
Conclusion: Protect Your Rights and Your Future
Even if your North Carolina or South Carolina workers’ compensation claim has been accepted, it’s important to remember that the insurance company is not looking out for your best interests.
Their goal is to minimize costs—not to maximize your recovery. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney will fight for your full benefits, protect your medical care, and help secure your financial future.
If you have an accepted claim and want to make sure you’re fully protected, contact The Law Offices of Bradley H. Smith today for a free consultation. We proudly represent injured workers across North Carolina and South Carolina and are ready to stand up for you.