Settlement?

[tguy]

What is the name of your state? North Carolina

I injured my elbow at work. My boss recomended his doctor,
so I went. The doctor said it was Lateral Epicondylitis. So
workers comp sent out a specialist and he said, definatley
happened on the job. He tells me this is never going to "go
away" even after surgery. I had surgery last thursday. A
guy at work told me workers comp will eventually settle
with me. Is a settlement for everyone? Do I have to go
after this? He tells me they're just gonna contact me when
the time comes, is there anything I have to do? I don't
want to tick my boss off, but if this is going to effect my
ability to get or keep jobs in the future then I should be
compensated...right?

thanks

 

[Ramoth]

Most likely, this is how it will play out:

First, sometime after the surgery you will be released to work with restrictions. If your employer has a job you can do within those restrictions, you'll do it. Otherwise you stay home collecting a portion of your pay from WC. Then you will either be released with no restrictions and go back to work, or the doctor will say that you have a permanent disability of x%. The WC company will settle your case by paying you an amount of money based on the level of disability, and you will have to find a job within those restrictions. Your employer may have a job for you, or you may need to find a new employer.


You employer is not allowed to take any disciplinary action against you because of your injury.

 

[tguy]

First off thanks for taking the time to answer my question.

They have a job the specialist said I will be able to do, it doesn't involve repetive movement or lugging wheels up to 100 lbs anymore.

I just don't want my boss to be upset with me, he's like a Father to me.

You say they will come to me correct? If I have to go after them, I won't. If they come to me, I'll accept, but I don't want to upset my employer.

Thanks again

T

 

[Ramoth]

You need to continue getting treatment for your injury. The doctor's will provide the necessary information to the WC company, and they will make the decisions. If you stop going for treatment, you could lose your rights to any compensation for this injury, even if you re-injure yourself later.

 

[tguy]

Oh, I'm still getting all the treatment. I haven't missed an appointment yet. I just got home from the doctors. They took the cast off but left the stiches in. It's still in a sling for the next four weeks. I can work but I'm not to use the injured arm for four more weeks, then I go back for another check up.