Being sidelined due to a workplace injury creates financial problems for many South Carolinians. If you were hurt on the job in South Carolina, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation benefits cover your medical expenses and a portion of your lost income while you cannot work.
Workers’ compensation benefits can be a vital lifeline to keep individuals afloat while they heal. But it can be difficult to get approved for benefits, and many people do not know what to do if their claim is denied. Get in touch with a South Carolina workers’ compensation lawyer at Stewart Law Offices.
Our accomplished legal team will work to give you the best chance of securing the benefits you need. Call or contact us today for a free consultation. Stewart Law Offices has offices conveniently located in Rock Hill, Spartanburg, Columbia, and Beaufort **.
Important Workers’ Comp Facts in South Carolina
The laws that govern workers’ compensation in South Carolina are very specific. Here are the top five things you need to know if you’ve been hurt or diagnosed with an occupational illness:
- Report the injury immediately. State law gives you 90 days to notify your employer about the accident. However, the best rule of thumb is to tell your employer as soon as possible.
- The insurance company picks your doctor. While workers’ compensation does cover most of your “reasonable” medical expenses, you are required to see the doctor the insurance company chooses. You can request to see a different provider, but you may be denied.
- You may qualify for partial or total disability: If you cannot return to work for more than seven days, you may qualify for total disability benefits. If you can return to work but in a different, less strenuous capacity, partial disability benefits may be available.
- You have the right to a hearing: If your employer or their insurance company denies your claim, you have a right to a hearing in front of the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission.
- Most cases settle out of court: While the experienced attorneys at Stewart Law Offices are prepared to go to trial, it is important to know that most workers’ compensation cases settle out of court. A qualified workers’ compensation lawyer can also help you prepare for any appeals as necessary.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Settlement
Though workers’ compensation benefits should be paid regardless of fault, there are cases in which insurers refuse to pay for certain treatments. To maximize your claim, you should work with a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer.
Here are other tips to protect your claim:
- Seek medical attention immediately for your injuries.
- Meet all workers’ compensation notification and filing deadlines.
- Document your case carefully.
- Attend any independent medical examinations (IMEs) that the insurer requests.
- Go to every doctor’s appointment and follow the treatment plan as prescribed.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion.
- Beware of private investigators that the insurer may hire.
- Appeal any denial.
Call Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in South Carolina Today
You’re in pain. You can’t work. If you were hurt on the job, you shouldn’t have to stress over whether you’re going to receive a fair workers’ compensation settlement, too.
Let Stewart Law Offices help. Our attorneys have successfully represented employees in South Carolina workers’ compensation claims for more than three decades. We can help you apply for benefits and prepare strong appeals on your behalf.
You don’t have to wait to get the legal help you need. Stewart Law Offices can start on your case immediately. Call or contact us for a free consultation.
