How Long Does It Take to Receive a Decision from the N.C. Industrial Commission?

This is a common question among injured workers that are faced with the prospect of litigating disputed issues against an employer or workers’ compensation insurance carrier.  The short answer to this question is, “It depends.”  The reason for this non-committal response is that it depends on  whether the injury has been accepted or denied by the employer, as well as the issue involved.  Under the best circumstances, there are procedures in place in admitted cases that can provide a remedy (either in the form of weekly compensation or payment of medical treatment) within 30 to 60 days.  At the other end of the spectrum are cases that involve facts and legal issues that will require a full evidentiary hearing.  Thus, pushing the time that an employee can expect a final decision to over a year from the time that the request is made.  Attorneys who focus their practice in the area of workers’ compensation can help ensure that a remedy is provided as quickly as possible and also prepare you for the road ahead by letting you know just how long that road may be.