What to Know About Form 18 for a Workers Compensation Claim

What to Know About Form 18 for a Workers Compensation Claim

Filing the correct paperwork is one of the most critical steps in securing the workers’ compensation benefits you need after a workplace injury. For injured workers in North Carolina, understanding and properly submitting Form 18 is key to initiating the claims process. However, navigating the intricacies of this form while dealing with an injury can feel overwhelming. That’s where legal guidance can make all the difference. At Waple & Houk, PLLC, we are here to help you understand and complete Form 18 accurately, so you can focus on your recovery.

What Is Form 18?

Form 18, officially titled the “Notice of Accident to Employer and Claim of Employee, Representative, or Dependent,” is a document required by the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC). This form serves as your official notice to both your employer and the NCIC that you are filing a workers’ compensation claim. It provides details about your injury, the date it occurred and how it happened.

Filling out Form 18 correctly is essential because it acts as the foundation of your workers’ compensation claim. Without a properly completed Form 18, your claim could face delays, disputes or even denial.

The Role of Form 18 in the Workers’ Compensation Process

The primary role of Form 18 is to alert your employer and the NCIC about your workplace injury. The information you provide allows the NCIC to begin processing your claim, and it formally notifies your employer and their workers’ compensation insurance carrier.

When completing Form 18, you’ll need to include:

• Details of the incident – Describe how the injury occurred, including the specific actions or events that led to it.
• Date and time of the injury – Include the exact day and time when the accident happened, as this establishes the timeline for your claim.
• Body parts injured – Specify which parts of your body were affected by the injury or occupational illness.
• Employer and wage information – Provide your work schedule, wages and other employment details.

Accurate and comprehensive information is critical. Any omissions or errors on this form could cause delays in processing your claim, making it harder to access the benefits you are entitled to.

Deadlines and Requirements to Keep in Mind

Timing is everything in workers’ compensation claims. Form 18 must be submitted within two years of the workplace injury or diagnosis of an occupational disease. Failure to meet this deadline will likely result in the forfeiture of your right to claim benefits.

Additionally, it is crucial to provide written notice of your accident to your employer within 30 days of the incident. Providing your employer with a copy of Form 18 is the best method to provide this notification. While two years may seem like ample time, any delay in submitting the form is likely to be used as a defense to your claim and therefore delay your access to necessary medical or wage loss benefits.

How a Lawyer Can Help with Form 18

Filing Form 18 may sound straightforward, but the level of precision and detail required can be challenging, especially when you’re already dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of an injury. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can ensure that your form is completed correctly and supported by the necessary evidence.

At Waple & Houk, PLLC, we assist clients in preparing Form 18 and other required documents with meticulous care. We review the details of your case, gather the necessary documentation, and work to prevent errors or omissions that could jeopardize your claim.

Contact Waple & Houk, PLLC, for Assistance with Your Workers’ Compensation Case

The workers’ compensation process can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Waple & Houk, PLLC, we are dedicated to guiding injured workers in North Carolina through every step of their claims, starting with the proper filing of Form 18. Our goal is to alleviate your stress and secure the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been injured on the job and need assistance with your workers’ compensation claim, contact us today. With Waple & Houk, PLLC, you can have confidence that we are here to provide the support you need during this challenging time.