Anyone is entitled to benefit from the The Workers’ Compensation Act for an injury, occupational disease, or even death that occurs at work or on the job.
Benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Getting your medical bills paid and mileage to and from medical appointments
- Prescription reimbursement
- 2/3 of your weekly wages (there is a maximum limit) while you are unable to attend work
- Money to replace some percentage of your weekly pay check while you are out of work fully
- Disfigurement award for scars & burns that are visible (under certain circumstances)
- Payment for permanent injuries
- Enforce penalties if the workers’ compensation carrier does not follow the established laws and rules
Everyone needs someone on their side
Despite all laws and protections, all workers’ compensation insurance companies want to pay out as little as possible and keep their costs down, and employers want to file as few claims as possible. This keeps their workers’ compensation premiums as cheap as possible for your employer. You need someone that knows workers’ compensation law in your corner. This is even more evident in severe injuries or permanent impairment that make you unable to work.
There are several things that may make your case more complex. Examples are inadequate instruction or supervision. The insurance carrier may/will ask you to settle your claim. They may try to convince you that coverage does apply due to fine print or circumstances surrounding your case. Greenville Workers’ Compensation Lawyers has the resources to protect your rights and investigate. We pursue all available legal options.
Can you sue a 3rd party?
It may be necessary to sue a 3rd party that is negligent in your accident. This may increase your potential recovery amount greatly due to workmens’ comp limits.
Most states require that state’s workers’ compensation laws are posted in a public employee and visible place at work site. Employers that do not carry workers’ compensation insurance, can be sued by the employee injured on the job.
Even if your employer’s workmens’ compensation insurance company goes bankrupt, usually other insurance carriers will purchase and take their claims. In some cases, states have funds setup to guarantee injured workers’ benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions.
What is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ Compensation laws are designed to compensate you for any injuries you receive on the job. Based on these laws, your employer is not liable for your injuries, so you cannot sue your employer. Instead, you will be provided compensation for lost wages and medical expenses regardless of whether your employer is at fault for your injury.
Am I eligible for Workers’ Compensation?
Most employees in South Carolina are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Please talk to one of our attorneys to determine eligibility. Examples of employees who may not be eligible for the benefits include Federal employees, railroad company employees, agricultural employees, and people working at businesses with less than four employees.
Do I need an attorney for Workers’ Compensation?
You don’t have to hire an attorney file a claim. However, it may be in your best interest. Going up against big insurance and dealing with the paperwork can be extremely burdening. It is usually a lot of paperwork, deadlines and required proper communication between the insurance company and your physician. Greenville Workers’ Comp will ensure all proper steps are completed on time and correctly. This will allow you to receive a fair settlement in a reasonable time.
Who pays workers’ compensation benefits?
In South Carolina, employers are required to purchase workers’ comp insurance for their employees. Very small companies (with fewer than three or four employees) are not required to carry the workers’ compensation insurance. Larger employers, who demonstrate financially stability, may have self-insuring workers compensation coverage.
Does workers’ compensation cover only injuries or does it also cover long-term problems and illnesses?
Many workers receive compensation for injuries that are caused by long term overuse or misuse. You may also be compensated for some illnesses and diseases that are a gradual result of work conditions such as heart conditions, lung disease, and stress-related digestive problems.
Do I have to be injured at my workplace to be covered by workers’ compensation?
No. As long as your injury is job-related, it should be covered. Some examples are traveling on business, doing a work-related errand, or even attending a required business-related social function.
Can I be treated by my own doctor or do I have to see the company physician(s)?
Usually, you have a right to see your own doctor. Certain restrictions and processes have to be followed. An insurance carrier or company will typically refer to a doctor recruited and paid for by your employers. This doctor’s report will have a big impact upon the benefits you receive. A doctor paid for by your employer’s insurance company is not going to work for you. The doctor wants more business from your employer or your insurance company. This may motivate a doctor to minimize your injury or to identify it as a preexisting condition.
Filing these claims can be complex. Please contact Greenville Workmens’ Compensation Lawyers. We have the experience necessary to make sure you receive the benefits you deserve. Our primary SC office is located in Greenville, South Carolina. We handle cases throughout South Carolina on behalf of injured individuals. We are ready to fight for your rights. Call us today.
