Workplace injuries cost companies millions of dollars each year. The effects on workers are even more stark. In addition to needing expensive medical care, workers usually need time off from work, which means no income coming in the door. Serious injuries require rest and time off from work.

Hart Law has helped many workers seek compensation following an accident. South Carolina’s workers’ compensation system covers most workers in the state, but approval for benefits is not automatic. Many workers with significant injuries are denied benefits or forced to go back to work too soon. For legal help with your case, contact our office to speak with a Dentsville workplace injury attorney.

We Help with All Types of Injuries and Accidents

Workers’ compensation covers on-the-job injuries. Anyone injured due to their job conditions can probably file a claim.

Our firm is particularly experienced with:

  • Struck-by accidents. A worker can be struck by falling materials or motor vehicles.
  • Caught in between accidents. A worker can have a limb caught in a machine or be pinned against the ground by heavy materials or machinery.
  • Falls. Many workers slip and fall at the workplace, or they can fall from several levels to the ground at a construction site.
  • Toxic exposure. Toxic substances at a worksite can lead to occupational illnesses, including cancer or respiratory diseases.
  • Excessive noise. Loud jobsites often result in hearing loss and sometimes total deafness.
  • Repetitive strain injuries. Tiny repetitive motions can lead to inflammation and compressed nerves. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common example.
  • Overexertion. This is one of the most common injuries. A worker can strain or sprain muscles when pushing, pulling or lifting.
  • Motor vehicle accidents. Some workers are struck in a parking lot or job site by a motor vehicle. Others travel as part of their job and are struck while working.

Questions about whether you can file for workers’ comp? Reach out to our office. We’ll listen to your story and analyze your rights under the law.

What Benefits Can You Receive?

Workers should receive medical care benefits. A worker should not have to pay out of pocket for any necessary and reasonable medical care. An employer can decide which doctor you meet with, so be sure to check after being hurt.

Injured workers often need to miss time from work. The state makes a variety of disability or wage loss benefits available for workers who are totally or partially disabled. The amount you receive will depend on your average weekly wage, as well as your level of impairment.

If a worker dies in an accident or from an occupational illness, then wholly dependent family members might receive a death benefit. The benefit includes burial expenses, as well as weekly wage loss benefits.

Why Are Workers Denied Benefits?

Although workers’ comp is a no-fault system, some workers do not receive everything they deserve. Some common reasons include:

  • Pre-existing injuries
  • Non-covered injury
  • Lack of medical evidence for the injury
  • Late reporting or filing a workers’ compensation claim
  • Not an employee

Consult Hart Law if your application is denied. We have the experience to gather sufficient evidence in support of a claim and can handle any appeal.

FAQs about Workers’ Comp in Dentsville

What are deadlines regarding workers’ compensation?

You must report the accident or illness to your employer within 90 days of the accident or diagnosis. Don’t delay. South Carolina law states you might not receive any benefits if you wait too long. Also, a worker should file their workers’ compensation claim within one year. Notifying your employer of an accident is not the same thing as filing a claim.

Can I sue my employer for compensation for an accident?

No. Workers’ compensation is the exclusive remedy for most workers. But you might be able to sue someone other than your employer. For example, a ladder might collapse due to a manufacturing defect. The injured worker can bring a product liability claim against the manufacturer.

What is the first step to take after an accident?

Seek medical care. And then report the accident to your boss. Those steps will increase the odds of making a full recovery and preserve your legal rights.

What can I do if my employer cuts off workers’ compensation benefits?

There are many reasons this might happen. Your doctor could clear you to return to work despite lingering disabilities. If you refuse, then they can cut off benefits. Reach out to our law firm if this has happened to you.

Call a Dentsville Workplace Injury Attorney

Hart Law has the necessary experience to file or appeal a workers’ compensation claim. We can also negotiate a fair settlement once you reach maximum medical improvement. Call our office at (803) 771-7701 to schedule your free consultation.