Many injured workers are hesitant to file a Workers’ Compensation claim, worried that their boss will retaliate. Will they get fired or demoted? Will their employer deny that their accident occurred?
Keep in mind that if your employer has more than four workers on the payroll, they are legally required to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance (also known as workers’ comp or workman’s comp). This coverage, not your employer themselves, pays the cost of your claim.
While you must report your injury to your employer within 90 days, you have up to two years to officially file a claim. But it is best to file as soon as possible – and to speak to a Workers’ Compensation attorney immediately. The longer you wait, the more complicated your case may become.
If you have been injured on the job, contact the Charleston Workers’ Compensation lawyers here at Hoffman Law Firm. Our team will be there every step of the way, offering helpful legal advice in pursuit of the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation benefits you deserve. Benefits include the following:
- Medical treatment for on-the-job injuries
If you think medical treatment is necessary, be sure to follow the instructions dictated by your employer and/or the insurance company. For instance, you must visit a physician who is on the list of approved providers. All medical treatment should be covered, including surgery, hospitalization, prescriptions, medical supplies, prosthetic devices, and more.
Because South Carolina abides by a “no fault” Workers’ Compensation system, fault is not a factor in your claim. That means that you are still eligible for benefits of Workers’ Compensation in South Carolina even if you are to blame for your accident. There are a few exceptions to this rule, though, such as workplace intoxication or intentional harm.
- Medical treatment for work-related illness
If you developed an illness caused by harmful substances or allergens at your workplace, you are covered under South Carolina Workers’ Compensation law. It is important to identify the type of substances you’re being exposed to – and to communicate this information to your Workers’ Compensation attorney here in Charleston, SC.
Note: If you have a pre-existing condition that was worsened due to a workplace illness or hazardous working conditions, you still have the right to file a claim.
- Lost wages
If your doctor deems you unable to work, or your employer cannot accommodate your restrictions, you are entitled to weekly compensation. While you recover, Workers’ Comp will help cover ⅔ of your average weekly wage.
- Travel expenses
You are also entitled to compensation for health-related travel expenses, such as doctor’s appointments. If the round-trip distance to your appointment is more than 10 miles from your home, you are entitled to reimbursement for miles driven at the rate given to SC state employees. In addition to retaining all medical records, don’t forget to log your mileage and retain fuel receipts.
- Long-term care
Some injured workers require physical therapy or some other form of ongoing medical care. If your doctor orders it, this long-term care is another benefit of Workers’ Compensation in South Carolina.
- Funeral costs
If a work-related injury or illness results in the death of an employee, funeral costs will be covered. Workers’ Comp also provides additional benefits to the deceased employee’s beneficiaries.
- Temporary and permanent disability
Severe workplace injuries or illnesses may result in disability. There are four categories with varying benefits: temporary total disability, temporary partial disability, permanent total disability and permanent partial disability. Contact your trusted personal injury attorneys in Charleston to learn more about each type of disability – and the benefits available.
Trust Hoffman Law Firm With Your Workers’ Compensation Claim!
If searching for a Workers’ Compensation attorney near me, contact Hoffman Law Firm today!
Our dedicated team is proud to serve North Charleston, Summerville, Mount Pleasant and the surrounding areas. If you have suffered a workplace injury or illness, we are here to help.
Because we believe your focus should be on your recovery, our team will handle your personal injury case from start to finish – including all communication with the insurance company. Let our Charleston law firm put our experience of legal advice to work for you during this difficult time.
Contact Hoffman Law Firm’s team of South Carolina attorneys today to schedule your free consultation!