If your company has 3 or more employees, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. This is true regardless of your immigration status. North Carolina's workers' compensation laws cover injuries that result from an accident arising out of and in the course of employment. The law also covers "occupational diseases," which include some lung conditions such as asbestosis and some repetitive-motion conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. State law is very specific and insurance carriers are skilled at applying these rules to limit or deny claims. For this reason, it's wise to consult with a skilled work injury lawyer if you are filing a claim.