What Happens if You Can't Return to Work After a Workplace Injury?
One of the most significant concerns for workers injured on the job is the uncertainty about their future employment. If you're unable to return to work due to an injury, the financial and emotional stress can be overwhelming. However, North Carolina workers' compensation laws provide assistance to workers who are temporarily or permanently unable to return to their previous jobs due to a workplace injury. In this blog post, we’ll explore what happens if you can’t return to work after a workplace injury and how workers’ compensation benefits can support you during this difficult time.
Temporary Total Disability Benefits
If your injury prevents you from working temporarily, you may be eligible for Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits. TTD benefits are designed to https://postheaven.net/dunedahiqx/how-workers-compensation-affects-your-ability-to-work replace a portion of your lost wages while you are unable to work. In North Carolina, TTD benefits typically provide two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a state maximum. These benefits will continue until you are able to return to work or until your medical condition stabilizes.
How Long Can You Receive TTD Benefits?
TTD benefits are available for as long as you are unable to work due to your injury, but they are capped. If you are still unable to work after 500 weeks, you may need to transition to a different form of disability benefits. TTD benefits stop once your doctor determines that your condition has stabilized, even if you’re still unable to return to your job.
Permanent Disability Benefits
If you are unable to return to work due to a permanent injury, you may qualify for Permanent Disability Benefits. These benefits are typically awarded if your injury results in permanent impairment, making it impossible to resume your previous job or perform any meaningful work.
Partial vs. Total Disability
Permanent disability benefits are divided into two categories: partial disability and total disability. If your injury prevents you from working in any capacity, you may be eligible for total disability benefits. On the other hand, if your injury restricts your ability to perform certain tasks but you can still work in a limited capacity, you may receive partial disability benefits. The amount of benefits will depend on the severity of your injury and how it affects your ability to earn a living.
Vocational Rehabilitation Assistance
For some injured workers, returning to work in the same capacity is not an option. In such cases, workers' compensation may provide vocational rehabilitation services. These services can help you transition to a new line of work that is within your physical capabilities.
What Does Vocational Rehabilitation Include?
Vocational rehabilitation can include job training, education, resume building, job search assistance, and even financial support for training courses. If your injury has made it impossible to return to your previous employment, these services can help you find a new job that accommodates your disability and allows you to continue working.
Long-Term Support and Benefits
If your injury leads to long-term disability, you may be entitled to long-term workers’ compensation benefits, including ongoing medical treatment, permanent disability payments, and vocational assistance. It is important to understand the full scope of benefits available to you and to work closely with your attorney to ensure you receive the support you need.
Appealing a Denied Disability Claim
If your application for permanent disability benefits is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. This process involves submitting additional medical evidence, undergoing medical evaluations, and attending hearings. An experienced workers' compensation attorney can help you navigate the appeals process and increase your chances of success.
Conclusion: Get Legal Help from Charlotte Workers' Compensation Lawyers
If you’ve been injured at work and are unable to return to your job, you don’t have to face the challenges alone. Workers' compensation benefits, including TTD, permanent disability, and vocational rehabilitation, can help you recover and support you during this difficult time. If you need help navigating the workers' compensation process or need assistance appealing a denied claim, contact Charlotte Workers' Compensation Lawyers today. Our experienced team is here to help you get the benefits you deserve. Reach out to us for a consultation today!