When working in a high-risk industry, you may worry about what to do if you suffer an injury on the job. Fortunately, workers’ compensation exists to address these needs. If you have coverage, you can receive various benefits based on your condition and eligibility, usually determined by law.
The policies concerning qualifications can vary from state to state. In North Carolina, distinct and clear provisions can indicate eligibility, including rules on who may be ineligible. Depending on the details and the events leading to the injury, an incident may not qualify for coverage, such as the following:
- An accident happens because of the victim’s drunkenness or intoxication
- The victim was under the influence after consuming a controlled substance or medication taken without proper prescription
- The victim had the intention to hurt themself, leading to the injury or fatality
If any of these conditions existed during your incident, it might not receive coverage from workers’ compensation. Other rules can also apply based on what caused the accident. If the employer’s noncompliance to safety standards contributed to the injury, the compensation amount and conditions could vary, requiring higher values to reflect the severity of the circumstances.
Gauging eligibility for workers’ compensation
Aside from regulations regarding eligibility, other details of your injury can affect your ability to file for workers’ compensation. Before taking any measures, seeking legal guidance can be helpful.
It might not ensure your access to benefits, but it could help you gauge your situation and determine the most appropriate course of action. Experienced insight can also help you prepare any requirements while meeting deadlines and addressing issues that arise along the way.