Q. How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim?

A. As soon as possible, you should file a Form 18 (Notice of Accident or Injury) with the Industrial Commission and employer informing them that you wish to make a claim. While N.C. law requires this Form 18 to be filed within thirty (30) days, an absolute time limit of two (2) years may be applicable to your claim depending on the facts. After your claim is settled, time limits also exist for reopening the case.

NC law requires you to file a written notice of accident with the NC Industrial Commission within thirty (30) days of your injury. You should file the claim regardless of the extent of injury since many small hurts can become major injuries over time. Since the Courts are forgiving of late filings up to two (2) years from the date of accident, you should not hesitant to file your claim even if more than thirty (30) days have passed. While reporting claims can cause some grief from employers, more heartache happens when insurance companies refuse to pay medical bills and other damages because of late filings.