What Happens if You’re Injured on Your First Day of Work in North Carolina?

Starting a new job is usually exciting, but suffering an injury on your first day can turn that excitement into fear and confusion. You may wonder whether you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits or if your short time on the job affects your rights.

The good news is that in North Carolina, most employees are covered by workers’ compensation from the moment they begin working. Understanding what to do after a first-day injury can help you protect your health and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.

You Are Covered from the Moment You Begin Work

North Carolina law requires most employers with three or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage begins as soon as you start working, regardless of how long you have been employed. You do not need to complete a probationary period, reach a certain number of hours, or receive your first paycheck before coverage applies.

If you are injured while performing your job duties, even on your first day, you are generally eligible for benefits. These benefits can include medical treatment, wage replacement if you miss work, and compensation for long-term disability if your injury prevents you from returning to your job.

Common first-day injuries include:

• Slips, trips, and falls during orientation or training.
• Back or shoulder injuries from lifting heavy materials.
• Cuts or burns from equipment or machinery.
• Vehicle-related injuries for delivery or transportation workers.
• Falls from heights on construction or warehouse sites.

Regardless of the type of injury, prompt reporting and proper documentation are critical.

Steps to Take Immediately After a First-Day Injury

Getting hurt on your first day can be overwhelming, but the steps you take immediately afterward can make a significant difference in your claim.

1. Report the Injury Right Away: Notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. North Carolina law requires employees to report workplace injuries within 30 days, but the sooner you report it, the better.
2. Seek Medical Treatment: Your employer may direct you to an approved medical provider. Follow all medical recommendations and keep copies of your records.
3. Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, write down what happened, and collect witness names if possible.
4. File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: Your employer should file a Form 19 with the North Carolina Industrial Commission. You can also submit your own Form 18 to ensure your claim is on record.
5. Consult an Attorney: If your employer or insurer questions your claim or delays benefits, our attorneys can help protect your rights.

Following these steps can help establish a clear link between your injury and your work duties, strengthening your case for benefits.

What If Your Employer Denies Your Claim?

Unfortunately, some employers or insurance companies may try to deny workers’ compensation claims from new hires. They might argue that the injury happened outside of work or that their policy did not yet cover you. These denials are often based on misunderstanding or misrepresentation of the law.

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal through the North Carolina Industrial Commission. Our Charlotte workers’ compensation attorneys can help gather evidence, obtain witness statements, and present a strong case showing that your injury occurred on the job and that you are entitled to benefits.

Contact Our Charlotte Workers’ Compensation Attorneys at Ramsay Law Firm

If you were injured on your first day of work in North Carolina, you do not have to face the process alone. The attorneys at Ramsay Law Firm understand how confusing and stressful a workplace injury can be, especially for new employees. We are here to help you file your claim, deal with the insurance company, and secure the medical care and compensation you deserve.

Call (704) 376-1616 or contact us online today for a free consultation. We will stand by your side, explain every step of the process, and fight for your rights under North Carolina law.

A Voice For The Injured. Here Every Step of The Way.