Legal Question in Workers Comp in North Carolina

Re: permanent partial disability settlement

Yes, generally, it is one of three potential benefits you may select once you reach maximum medical improvement or "MMI", assuming you do not reach a "final settlement" with the carrier. The size of the PPD recovery is based on the size of your weekly compensation rate and size of rating. Make sure they have calculated your compensation rate properly and know you have the right to a second opinion with a dr of your own choosing under 97-27(b) of the Act.

See more info on WC at our website site (ncworkcomp.com), and link to the NC Industrial Commission website as well for a Bulletin and other materials. Good luck!

S. Neal Camak

Lennon & Camak, PLLC

Raleigh, NC

Re: permanent partial disability settlement

You may be entitled to an election of benefits under one of three statutes for (1) permanent total disability if you cannot work; (2) a wage loss claim if you can work but only at lower wages; or (3) the disability rating assigned by your doctors. In addition, you may be entitled to (1) lifetime medical care if you file the right form and get it approved by the Commission (2) a claim for change of condition if you get worse within 2 years (3) payment for sick travel, etc. Check ncworkcomp.com for info and links.