A new bill that is currently being considered by the House of Representatives seeks to change the procedures and treatment for workers injured on the job. If passed, it could cause serious delays in workers’ compensation claims processing and prevent injured employees from receiving prompt treatment.
Called Senate Bill 174, Disapprove Industrial Commission Rules, the bill is backed by at least ten North Carolina organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce. Business owners support the proposed laws because they claim that it will allow them to keep workers’ comp costs in check.
However, opponents of the bill point out that its passage would further delay an already drawn-out process. Senate Bill 174 would eliminate the option to file special medical motions for workers’ comp claims. Instead, claims would require a full hearing in front of the Industrial Commission, with witnesses — a process that could take months.
Several Raleigh attorneys and North Carolina lawyers who represent workers’ compensation claims oppose the bill, citing unfairness to injured workers who typically must remain out of work until their claims are settled. Meanwhile, they suffer with untreated injuries that may worsen without proper medical attention.
As Raleigh workers’ compensation lawyers, the attorneys of Kelly & West are experienced with handling and representing workers’ compensation cases. We understand the considerable stress caused by on-the-job injuries, from costly medical bills to the loss of salary resulting from being unable to work.
If you or someone you love is injured at work and struggling with a workers’ compensation claim, our dedicated Raleigh attorneys can help. Contact Kelly & West today to discuss the possibility of filing a workers’ comp claim with us.
