Hurt At Work
G.S. 97-22 — written notice within 30 days, and a claim within two years
Written notice, within 30 days. In North Carolina, an injured employee gives the employer written notice of the accident immediately or as soon as practicable. No compensation is payable unless written notice is given within 30 days of the accident, unless the Industrial Commission accepts a reasonable excuse and finds the employer was not prejudiced.
The right to compensation is forever barred unless a claim is filed with the Commission, or compensation is paid, within two years after the accident, or a claim is filed within two years after the last payment of medical compensation where nothing else has been paid.
The employer provides medical compensation. On the employee's written request, the employer may agree to a second opinion; if the request is denied or no agreement is reached within 14 calendar days, the employee may ask the Commission to order one at the employer's expense.
For total disability, the weekly payment is sixty-six and two-thirds percent of average weekly wages, up to the maximum set each January 1 and not less than $30 a week. Temporary total disability runs no more than 500 weeks from the first disability, unless extended compensation is granted for a total loss of wage earning capacity.
The General Assembly has enacted a new version of G.S. 97-29, in force from July 1, 2027, that raises the weekly minimum. Until then the version above is the law.
Sources for this section (4)
- G.S. 97-22 — Notice of accident to employer
- G.S. 97-24 — Right to compensation barred after two years
- G.S. 97-29 — Rates and duration of compensation for total incapacity
- G.S. 97-25 — Medical treatment and supplies
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed North Carolina attorney.