Workers in North Carolina who suffer injuries on the job have the right to file for workers’ compensation. One of their options is total temporary disability. It’s important to understand the details of this workers’ comp benefit.
What workers are covered by workers’ compensation?
Employers of three or more employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance. Anyone who is an employee of a company whether they work full- or part-time, is eligible for benefits.
The types of workers covered by workers’ compensation are broad. Those performing internships or apprenticeships, undocumented workers, sole proprietors and even minor employees are entitled to file if they suffer on-the-job injuries.
What is temporary total disability coverage?
One of the types of workers’ compensation benefits available in injured employees is temporary total disability. This coverage is given to a worker shortly after they have suffered their injury or work-related illness and are unable to work. It’s provided when the worker is out while recovering. Workers entitled to this coverage must wait seven days before they can begin receiving temporary total disability benefits. They can receive benefits for up to 500 weeks and in certain situations even longer.
Workers qualified for these benefits receive two-thirds of their average weekly wages. A worker can continue receiving their benefits until they have returned to work or are no longer considered disabled.
How can a worker qualify for temporary total disability benefits?
When a worker seeks temporary total disability from workers’ compensation, they must prove their disability to qualify for benefits. A doctor treating the person can assign work restriction to prove their disability and inability to work.
Workers who are injured at work and unable to do their job should immediately notify their employer and apply for workers’ comp.