Losing a loved one to a work-related accident or illness can be devastating. Sadly, this is something many North Carolina families have experienced over the years. The losses associated with such a death can be significant. Thankfully, eligible individuals may be entitled to seek workers’ compensation death benefits to cover some of those losses.
What do these benefits cover?
According to the state’s Workers’ Compensation Act, death benefits are to cover a percentage of the employee’s lost wages and burial expenses. Weekly payments of nearly 67% of the employee’s pay may be made to eligible dependents. For how long depends on their relationship to the decedent. As far as funeral expenses go, up to $10,000 may be covered.
Who is eligible?
Individuals who were wholly or partially dependent on the decedent may qualify for death benefits. If a minor child is left behind, the child’s new guardian may qualify. Any funds received are to be used to care for the minor. Beneficiaries need not be residents of North Carolina to receive the death benefit.
Get help
Those who have lost loved ones to work-related accidents or illnesses only have so much time to seek workers’ compensation death benefits to help cover their losses. In other words, this is not something to wait on. Legal counsel can help determine if one is eligible and, if so, file the claim in a timely manner. If there is any pushback on eligibility or the amount offered is less than expected, one’s attorney can help fight for coverage and maximum compensation.