Workers Compensation Neck Injury Claims
Under North Carolina workers’ compensation law, the neck is part of the back. Like a back injury, an injury to your neck will require proof of a specific traumatic incident or an “injury by accident.” Terminology is very important, and you should be very careful about how you describe an accident that may have caused your neck injury to any workers’ compensation insurance adjuster. What you say could determine whether or not you receive any benefits. You should also consider consulting with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer before allowing any recorded statement about the accident.
Neck Injuries and Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
Although neck injuries are usually associated with car accidents, we have seen many clients who have suffered accidents at work resulting in neck injuries. Whether caused by an accident or an unusual strain from lifting, neck injuries are often debilitating, resulting in long-term disability. Many workers attempt to ignore their neck injury, deciding to “tough it out” until the problem goes away. This may be a critical mistake as you need to report an injury to your neck as soon as possible to your employer. If you are experiencing tingling or burning sensations in your fingers, stiffness, numbness or weakness in the neck and the arm, trouble swallowing, writing, talking, severe headache, blurred vision or nausea following an on-the-job accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible and report the injury to your employer.
Disability Benefits for Your Workplace Neck Injury
Neck injuries can range from minor to life altering. If you have to be out of work for a period of time for a neck injury, you may be eligible for Permanent Partial Disability (PPD), Temporary Total Disability (TTD), or Temporary Partial Disability (TPD). However, some serious neck injuries do not fully heal. If your neck injury has left you with permanent pain and limited mobility, you may be entitled to benefits for Permanent Total Disability (PTD) under North Carolina workers’ compensation law.
If you have suffered a neck injury, we can help you understand your rights, answer your questions and explain your legal options. Contact the law firm of Hemmings & Stevens, PLLC for a free consultation.