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Can you seek compensation for contracting COVID-19 at work?

On Behalf of | Oct 16, 2024 | Workers' Compensation |

Have you or someone you know contracted COVID-19 at work? If you’re feeling overwhelmed and wondering if you can seek compensation, you’re not alone. Many workers across North Carolina are facing the same challenge.

In this blog, we’ll explore your rights and options, helping you understand how to take action and protect your health and finances. Read on and determine how to get the support you need during these difficult times.

What are your options?

Your first option is to file an occupational disease claim. However, you must prove that your job exposed you to a higher risk of getting COVID-19 than the general public.

For instance, employees in the healthcare sector or those who work in densely populated settings where maintaining social distancing measures is impractical are at a greater risk of contracting illnesses. Additionally, you must prove a causal link between your occupation and the contraction of the disease, demonstrating that your job duties directly contributed to your sickness.

Your second option is to file an injury by accident claim. For this type of claim, you must show that you got COVID-19 due to an accident or an unusual event at work. These events could include interruptions in your regular job routine that led to your infection.

For example, your manager asked you to work in a different area where a sick person infected you with the virus. Under North Carolina law, this could be considered an accident.

To formally commence your claim, you need to file a notice of accident with the North Carolina Industrial Commission. The filing of this document serves as the official notification of your illness and marks the start of the process to pursue compensation.

Understand your rights

It’s crucial to recognize that every situation is distinct and requires a personalized approach. It is also essential to collect all pertinent information and consult with a legal expert. By understanding your rights and the procedural steps involved, you can take proactive measures to secure the compensation you need.

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