When Will Workers’ Comp Offer A Settlement in North Carolina? 2025

A work-related injury can leave you in financial straits. As medical bills and lost wages pile up, you’re likely to ask yourself, “When will workers’ comp offer a settlement in North Carolina?” Settlements are lump sum payments that can be sizable. The large single payment can compensate you for past, present, and future medical bills in addition to payments for lost wages and disability if you suffered a catastrophic injury.

Factors That Influence When Workers’ Comp Offers a Settlement

Any workers’ compensation settlement can be influenced by numerous factors. One key factor is the severity of your injuries. It is common for insurers to wait until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) before they offer a settlement. The cost of your medical treatments and whether or not you need ongoing care can determine your medical treatment costs.

The time it takes to reach MMI can significantly influence how long it takes to receive a settlement. Some recoveries, especially for head and spinal cord injuries, can take several months to over a year to reach MMI.

When you receive your settlement, it can be influenced by your ability to effectively negotiate with the workers’ compensation provider. If any disputes over liability arise, this can delay the settlement process. Disputes about benefits can also delay settlement payments. It is important to understand that not all workers’ compensation claims ultimately result in a lump-sum settlement.

Some claims lead to regular payments over time. If a settlement is not offered, injured workers may still seek one by negotiating with the insurer or filing for a hearing. Even after a settlement is reached, additional time is required for approval by the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC) and processing payments. While settlements are not guaranteed, injured workers can seek one by negotiating with the insurer.

Can You Speed Up a Workers’ Comp Settlement in North Carolina?

While some aspects of a workers’ compensation claim may be out of your hands, you can take steps to prevent unnecessary delays. By following medical recommendations and attending appointments, you can reduce the risk that your recovery will be unduly delayed. Workers compensation insurers often wait until claimants reach MMI before they offer settlements. By following your doctor’s medical advice, you can avoid unnecessary delays.

Providing complete and accurate documentation of your injury, treatment, and work restrictions also prevents disputes that could slow things down. If the insurance company is delaying a settlement, a lawyer can push for negotiations and even request a workers’ comp hearing to encourage resolution.

If the workers’ compensation carrier does not offer a fair settlement, further delays may be needed to ensure that you receive the compensation you need to recover and pay for lost wages.

Understanding Workers’ Comp Settlement Negotiations in North Carolina

If this is your first time seeking a settlement from a workers’ compensation carrier, you may not be familiar with the negotiation process. The insurer starts by looking at the extent of your injury. They may not agree with your assessment when it comes to making an offer. If they offer an amount that you are not happy with, you can reject that offer.

The North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC) must approve all settlements. Many injured workers rely on the services of personal injury attorneys who understand how to negotiate with workers’ compensation insurers. An attorney can make sure that your insurer knows you are seeking a one-time lump sum payment. Having one payment paid at once can provide you with financial security during a challenging time.

FAQs

Q: How Long Does It Take to Receive a Workers’ Compensation Settlement in North Carolina?

A: The time it takes to receive workers’ compensation can vary considerably. The time it takes to receive workers’ compensation settlements can vary considerably, ranging from several months to more than a year. However, medical expenses typically get paid much sooner. Once your claim is accepted, the workers’ compensation insurer should immediately cover medical treatments.

Q: What Factors Determine the Amount of a Workers’ Compensation Settlement?

A: In North Carolina, the size of a settlement largely depends on the severity of your injury and your need for ongoing medical treatments. The time missed from work can also influence the amount of compensation you are owed. If you require home modifications for a disability, that could also add to the amount you receive. Having strong legal representation can also ensure that you receive the full range of benefits that you are owed.

Q: How Does the Workers’ Compensation Settlement Process Work in North Carolina?

A: The workers’ compensation settlement process begins after you reach MMI. You can hire an attorney who tells your insurer that you are requesting a lump sum settlement. If you do not notify your insurer of this goal, they may make weekly payments instead. Your lawyer can make sure the workers’ comp insurer has all the paperwork they need while seeking a settlement amount that covers your medical bills and other financial needs.

Q: Can a Workers’ Compensation Settlement Be Higher if Surgery Is Required?

A: Yes, the cost of surgery can significantly increase the size of your settlement. It is important to make sure that all of your medical needs, including future surgeries, are accounted for.

Your recovery should be directed by your medical doctor, and your workers’ comp insurer should not interfere with your doctor’s recommendation. If surgery or other medical treatments may be needed in the future, you don’t want to settle for a lump sum payment that leaves you without the funds to pay for those procedures.

Schedule Your Workers’ Comp Settlement Consultation Today

The Gastonia workers’ comp attorneys at Bridgman Gantt Law Offices understand that a settlement that is fair can feel like getting a new lease on life. We have helped many former clients secure fair settlements following a work-related injury. We know what it takes to negotiate with workers’ comp providers for fair outcomes that fully pay your medical bills and more.

Don’t risk having your settlement request denied. Without legal representation, you could be offered a lowball settlement that leaves you struggling to pay for future medical treatments and lost wages. Our law firm can carefully review your case so you are not left facing financial hardships. Contact our office today to schedule your workers’ compensation settlement consultation today.