Workers power the South Carolina economy, and they deserve compensation whenever they are hurt on the job. At Hart Law, we understand the difficulties workers face when they are dealing with injuries. Many are afraid that they will be unable to provide for their families and that they might lose their home. Fortunately, the majority of workers in the state are covered by workers’ compensation.

In South Carolina, injured workers can request no-fault benefits if they are hurt while working. You should receive medical care for free, along with wage loss or disability benefits if you cannot work. Contact our office to speak with a Florence workplace injury attorney at our office.

Workplace Injuries at a Glance

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 30,000 workplace injuries in South Carolina, which led to a day off or job restrictions in 2023. That is far too many accidents. Workers are hurt on the job in a variety of accidents, including falls, fires, electrocution, and being struck by accidents.

Other workers struggle with repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel or bursitis. These injuries develop slowly, but at some point, they are so painful that a worker needs to stay home.

Still, other workers pick up an occupational illness. Many workplaces have pollution or toxic chemicals. A worker can develop respiratory issues, cancer, or another disease. Contact Hart Law to discuss whether your injury is covered by workers’ comp.

Can You Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

Most employers are covered by the system. You should receive benefits if you are hurt within the scope of employment. This is a no-fault system, so your own negligence would not matter.

Workers should receive:

  • Medical care to cover the cost of doctor’s visits, diagnostic tests, surgery, hospital visits, and rehabilitation. All reasonable and necessary care is covered.
  • Wage replacement benefits. Tens of thousands of workers need time off to heal. You should receive a portion of your average weekly wage to help defray the financial burden.
  • Disability benefits. Some workers are permanently disabled even after they reach maximum improvement. South Carolina makes disability benefits available. Someone who is totally and permanently disabled might receive benefits for life.
  • Vocational rehabilitation. To become gainfully employed, some workers need to transition to a new industry. Workers’ comp can pay for additional training or education.
  • Death benefit. Some family members can receive workers’ comp when a loved one dies on the job.

When You Need to Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Too many workers are denied benefits. You might be denied because you applied too late or failed to report the accident to your employer within 90 days. Other workers are denied because their injury is not work-related or not serious enough.

We can help with an appeal. Often, we work with your medical team to fully document the severity of the injury and prove it is work-related.

Other workers are initially approved but pressured to return to work too soon. We can review and advocate for extended benefits, where necessary.

Retaliation in South Carolina

It is illegal for your employer to retaliate if you file a workers’ compensation claim. You should not be demoted, suffer a cut in pay, or terminated for filing a claim.

Hart Law can make sure your rights are protected. Raise any concerns you have about workplace retaliation so that we can investigate. Employers rarely admit they are firing someone for filing a claim, but there are red flags, such as threats or rumors.

FAQs: Florence Workplace Accidents

How much time do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim?

Workers must meet two deadlines. First, you need to report a work-related injury or illness to your employer within 90 days. The clock begins when you are hurt or diagnosed with a workplace illness. Second, a worker must file a workers’ compensation claim for benefits within two years (S.C. Code § 42-15-40.) Please reach out to our firm so you don’t miss these deadlines.

Should I sue my boss for an injury?

Workers’ compensation is the sole legal remedy you have against your employer after an on-the-job injury. However, you might sue a third party if they are liable. For example, you might have been hurt by a defective product, in which case you can sue the manufacturer.

How much can I receive in benefits?

Wage replacement benefits are typically 2/3 of your average weekly wages, for up to a maximum of 500 weeks. Someone who is totally and permanently disabled might receive benefits longer.

Contact a Florence Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Hart Law is proud to help injured workers with their claims. We have a thriving personal injury practice along with deep knowledge of the workers’ compensation system. Reach out to schedule a free consultation by calling (803) 771-7701.