Do you work in a dangerous environment or occupation in North Carolina? If you’ve been injured on the job, you may be wondering how much workers compensation you can get. Let’s take a look at what kinds of injuries qualify for the largest workers comp settlements, and why it’s a good idea to hire a dedicated NC workers compensation attorney to fight for your rights.
What Are Clincher Agreements?
North Carolina workers compensation claims are often settled through “clincher” agreements. A clincher is a lump-sum payment that closes the claim and releases the employer from further liability. Clincher settlements typically only happen if both parties agree to the amount. If an agreement can’t be reached, the claim may go to an appeal or court trial.
The largest workers comp settlements generally involve severe, permanent injuries that significantly impact a person’s ability to work and quality of life. While amounts vary, settlements for traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and other catastrophic injuries can reach well into the millions of dollars.
Back and Spine Injuries
Back and spine injuries are some of the most common workplace accidents, especially for those doing physical labor. The spine is delicate yet crucial for mobility, so damage can be debilitating and lead to lifelong problems. If you’ve suffered a back injury at work, you may be entitled to compensation.
Slipping, tripping, and falling are common causes of back injuries at work. A fall from any height can strain muscles, fracture vertebrae, or rupture discs. Employers are required to provide proper safety equipment, warning signs, and non-slip flooring to prevent falls. If they fail to do so and you are injured, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
The severity of your back injury will determine appropriate settlements. Minor strains may yield smaller settlements, while permanent partial disability could warrant much larger compensation. Speaking to a workers compensation lawyer can help you understand your legal options and the potential value of your claim.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are one of the top causes of the largest workers comp settlements in North Carolina. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe, life-threatening head traumas. Any injury that disrupts normal brain function can have devastating and long-lasting effects.
The most common type of TBI is a concussion. Concussions are caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that can cause a quick change in brain movement. Concussions are usually not life-threatening but can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and memory problems. While most concussion symptoms resolve within days or weeks, some may persist for months or longer.
More serious head injuries like contusions, hematomas, and skull fractures can require emergency treatment and often intensive rehabilitation. Symptoms may include loss of consciousness, confusion, weakness, vomiting, and seizures. Severe TBIs can cause permanent disability or reduced life expectancy.
Amputation and Loss of Limb
Amputation of a limb, like an arm or leg, is one of the most traumatic workplace injuries. The physical and psychological impacts are lifelong. Losing a limb means adapting to a new way of living and often requires extensive rehabilitation and prosthetic care.
Sometimes, limbs can be partially amputated or crushed beyond repair in workplace accidents. The crushing of limbs, especially hands and feet, leads to immense suffering and permanent disability. Crushed limbs often require amputation and result in settlement amounts comparable to full amputations.
Third-Degree Burns
Third-degree burns are the most severe type of burn, destroying the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and the layer below (dermis). They cause white or blackened skin and numbness in the area of the burn. The pain from third-degree burns may seem less intense than with second-degree burns because the nerves have been damaged.
However, they still require emergency care and hospitalization. Doctors will need to surgically remove damaged tissue and skin graft the area to promote healing and reduce scarring. Severe third-degree burns may also require physical therapy and additional reconstructive surgeries.
In some cases, third-degree burn victims may require skin grafts from donor areas of their own body or synthetic skin substitutes to cover and heal the area. The recovery process can take months and require extensive rehabilitation and scar management.
Get Help With Your Workers Comp Settlement from an Experienced North Carolina Workers Injury Lawyer!
If you’ve been injured at work, you need an advocate in your corner fighting for the compensation you deserve. As North Carolina workers compensation attorneys, we understand how difficult and stressful this time can be for you and your loved ones. We will fight to get you the best possible workers comp settlement as soon as possible.
Contact us at 919-328-2336!
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