Medical Transportation in North Carolina Workers' Compensation Claims

When someone is injured on the job, getting to medical appointments is a necessary part of the recovery process. In North Carolina, workers’ compensation may cover the cost of that transportation under certain circumstances.

Does Workers’ Comp Cover Transportation to Medical Appointments in NC?

The clearest case is when a treating physician documents that the injured worker should not drive. A formal restriction in a work note gives the insurance carrier a straightforward reason to arrange transportation to and from medical appointments.

Even without an explicit restriction, carriers will sometimes provide transportation to avoid delays in treatment, particularly when an injured worker is out of work and attendance issues would slow the claim’s progress.

Why Insurers Sometimes Refuse to Cover Medical Transportation

The most common point of friction is when an injured worker is receiving weekly indemnity benefits. Carriers may take the position that transportation falls under ordinary living expenses, already accounted for in those payments.

Documentation matters in these situations. A clear paper trail showing how transportation barriers are affecting medical attendance can help support the worker’s position.

Form 25T: Getting Reimbursed for Mileage Under North Carolina Workers’ Comp

For workers who travel more than 20 miles round trip to medical appointments, the North Carolina Industrial Commission provides a mechanism for mileage reimbursement through Form 25T. This applies regardless of who is driving, making it a useful option even when the injured worker is not behind the wheel.

How Transportation Problems Can Hurt Your NC Workers’ Comp Claim

Transportation is not just a convenience issue. Consistent medical attendance affects the treating physician’s ability to evaluate the injury, recommend treatment, and guide the worker toward maximum medical improvement. Delays in any of those areas can ripple through the entire claim, affecting timelines, benefits, and outcomes for everyone involved.

Speak With A North Carolina Workers’ Comp Lawyer

If you have questions about transportation coverage or how your North Carolina Workers’ Comp claim is progressing, we’re here to help. Contact us today to speak directly with an experienced North Carolina workers’ compensation attorney at no cost to you.