Shelby Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Shelby Workers’ Compensation Attorney

If you’re in Shelby, North Carolina, and you’ve been hurt on the job, you’re likely facing lost wages, medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. A skilled Shelby workers’ compensation lawyer can secure the benefits you need.

At Roberts Law Firm, P.A., we understand the challenges facing injured workers, so we can work hard on their behalf throughout the workers’ comp process.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover in North Carolina?

In 2023, 90% of all reports made to OSHA were workplace injuries, resulting in one worker dying every 99 minutes from a work-related injury, at a cost of over $176 billion.

Workers’ compensation is designed to protect employees who get injured or become ill because of their job. If you’ve been hurt at work, it’s important to understand exactly what benefits may be available to you under the north Carolina worker’s compensation laws. Some of the key benefits include:

• Medical expenses. This covers doctor visits, surgeries, hospital stays, prescriptions, and physical therapy related to the injury.
• Temporary disability benefits. If you’re unable to work while recovering, these benefits can replace a portion of your lost wages.
• Permanent disability benefits. If your injury causes lasting disability, you could be eligible for benefits designed to reflect your reduced ability to work.
• Vocational rehabilitation. If you can’t return to your previous job, there are programs to retrain you or find new employment.
• Death benefits. This benefit provides financial support to dependents if a worker dies from a workplace injury or illness.

While the benefits of workers’ compensation can provide vital support during recovery, understanding what’s covered is just the first step to making informed decisions about your claim. Roberts Law Firm, P.A., can navigate the system and protect your rights.

Common Challenges Injured Workers Face

Even when the law’s on your side, the workers’ compensation process isn’t always smooth. Many injured workers in North Carolina find themselves facing unexpected obstacles, some from insurance companies, others from employers, and some from the system itself.

Knowing what challenges you could face can help you anticipate problems and take steps to protect your claim. Some of these challenges can include:

• Claim denials. Insurance companies could dispute whether your injury is work-related or meets the threshold for benefits.
• Delayed payments. Benefit payments could be slow or interrupted, which can cause financial strain.
• Disputes over medical treatment. The insurance company might refuse to cover certain treatments, or they could require second opinions.
• Return-to-work issues. Employers might pressure injured workers to return before they’re medically ready/cleared.
• Complex legal deadlines. Missing filing deadlines can mean losing your right to receive benefits.

These obstacles can add stress to an already difficult situation, especially when you’re trying to focus on your physical recovery. Fortunately, Roberts Law Firm, P.A., can take proactive steps to avoid delays, respond to disputes, and keep your claim going smoothly.

Why Local Knowledge Is Critical in Shelby

At Roberts Law Firm, P.A., we combine local insight with a hands-on approach to guide injured workers in Shelby throughout the workers’ compensation process.

Because we live and work in this community, we understand the unique dynamics of the Shelby legal system. We’re familiar with how claims are handled at the Cleveland County Courthouse and know how the North Carolina Industrial Commission offices operate, including the regional location in Charlotte.

That local familiarity allows us to anticipate how judges and adjusters may respond to a claim, what documentation carries the most weight in hearings, and how to navigate local procedures efficiently. In a process full of deadlines, technical rules, and paperwork, that experience can save you time—and frustration.

Local knowledge alone, however, isn’t enough. What sets us apart is how we work with you. At Roberts Law Firm, P.A., we focus on making the process as clear and manageable as possible, and we do this by:

• Listening. Every case starts with a detailed conversation about our client’s injury, job duties, and treatment. We want to understand their full impact on their life.
• Conducting a thorough investigation. We collect medical records, employment history, and witness statements to build a strong claim.
• Communicating. We don’t leave our clients wondering about what’s happening with their claims or what options they have.
• Fighting for your rights. If your claim is denied or your benefits are cut off, we can prepare appeals and represent you at hearings.

You don’t have to face the workers’ compensation system alone. Roberts Law Firm, P.A., won’t treat your case like a file number. We treat it like your future, because that’s exactly what’s at risk.

FAQs

Can I Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits for a Pre-Existing Condition Worsened by My Job?

Yes, you can receive workers’ compensation benefits if a workplace injury aggravates or accelerates a pre-existing condition. The key to these kinds of cases is demonstrating that your job duties directly contributed to worsening your condition. At Roberts Law Firm, P.A., we can gather the evidence you need, like medical records, to present a strong claim.

Can I Choose My Own Doctor for a Workers’ Compensation Claim in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, your employer or their insurance carrier generally has the right to direct your medical care, which means they choose the doctor. However, if you’re unhappy with the care or you believe it isn’t helping, you can request a change of physician through the North Carolina Industrial Commission.

Can I File a Direct Claim Against My Employer If I Get Injured at Work in North Carolina?

No, you generally can’t file a direct claim against your employer if you get injured at work in North Carolina. In most cases, workers’ compensation is the exclusive remedy. However, exceptions exist for intentional injuries or if a third party is responsible, like a contractor. In these situations, a personal injury claim might be possible alongside a workers’ comp claim.

What Happens If My Employer Doesn’t Have Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

If your employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance, you still have rights under North Carolina law. The Industrial Commission can enforce penalties against the employer, and you can file a direct claim with the commission. In some cases, a personal injury claim might be an alternative option. Reporting uninsured employers helps protect other workers, too.

Contact Roberts Law Firm, P.A., To Get Help With Workers’ Compensation Case

If you’re in Shelby and dealing with a workplace injury, don’t wait. At Roberts Law Firm, P.A., we combine local knowledge with a personalized approach to help injured workers move forward with confidence.

Contact our firm today to schedule an initial consultation.