Workers are the foundation of the Orangeburg economy, but too many are left in a fragile state after an on-the-job accident. Medical bills and other expenses pile up, but workers are unable to get back to work due to serious injuries. Contact Hart Law today. Our legal team is dedicated to helping injured workers navigate the claims system. You might be entitled to workers’ compensation and other benefits, which our Orangeburg workplace injury lawyer can explain in greater detail in a free, no-obligation consultation.

We Help with All Kinds of Workplace Accidents

Workers can count on Hart law to assist them after the most common workplace accidents, including:

  • Falls
  • Electrocution accidents
  • Burn injuries
  • Struck-by accidents
  • Crush injuries
  • Motor vehicle collisions
  • Toxic exposure
  • Repetitive movement injuries

Virtually any accident that happens while you are working is covered. Workers’ comp will not cover ordinary travel to and from work, unless you are hurt on your employer’s property. However, some workers travel for their job, and you might qualify if you are hurt outside your ordinary place of business. Call Hart Law so we can review.

When Can You Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

An injured worker first turns to workers’ comp for immediate help after an on-the-job injury or illness. This is a no-fault system. If your employer has purchased an insurance policy, you are covered if you are hurt while working. South Carolina does not consider whether a worker was negligent or at fault.

Workers’ compensation usually covers:

  • Emergency medical care. You should not have to pay for treatment in the emergency room or for life-saving surgery.
  • Rehabilitation and ongoing doctor’s appointments. Many workers need months of physical therapy to help them relearn how to walk or strengthen muscles. Regular doctor’s visits are necessary to ensure your condition is improving.
  • Wage loss benefits. If you cannot work, then you should receive temporary disability benefits based on your average pre-accident wages.
  • Permanent disability benefits. Some injuries never heal, and workers are left with lifelong injuries. Permanent disability benefits are available for some workers.
  • Vocation rehabilitation. Workers’ comp should cover retraining so you can return to gainful employment.

If a loved one dies on the job, workers’ comp should even provide a death benefit for certain surviving family members. (South Carolina Code § 42-9-290.)

How Third-Party Claims Help

Workers’ compensation does not pay any compensation for mental distress or pain and suffering. And workers usually receive only 2/3 of their lost income, at most.

Unfortunately, the workers’ comp system also prevents workers from suing their employer. These benefits are the exclusive remedy available, regardless of whether your employer was lax when it comes to job safety.

Helpfully, Hart Law can review whether you can sustain a third-party lawsuit. You might have a valid claim in different situations:

  • You are hurt by defective equipment or products. The manufacturer could be liable when a product malfunctions and injures you. We can inspect the product to search for a design or manufacturing flaw.
  • A negligent driver strikes you. Some construction workers are struck by forklifts or dump trucks. And any employee who travels for work could bring a motor vehicle claim against a negligent driver.
  • Dangerous property hazards cause an accident outside of work. You might visit a client and be injured when you fall on their premises or are attacked due to negligent security.

Let Hart Law review if this type of lawsuit is a possibility. We can usually increase the amount of compensation our clients take home.

FAQs about Orangeburg Workplace Injury Cases

How Much Time Do I Get to Report the Accident?

You should report a workplace accident as soon as you can. If you wait too long, then South Carolina can prohibit you from receiving any workers’ compensation benefits. Avoid delay.

Can My Employer Choose My Doctor?

Yes. The general rule is that your employer, or more likely their insurance carrier, can choose the doctor who treats you. (South Carolina Code § 42-15-60.) If you don’t go to this doctor, then workers’ comp might deny your medical benefits.

Must My Employer Keep My Job Open?

No. Your employer cannot retaliate against you and fire you for making a workers’ compensation claim. But they also aren’t required to keep a position open indefinitely.

Call Our Orangeburg Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today

Workplace accidents can happen to anyone, even the most experienced and careful employee. Workers’ compensation benefits provide a safety net, but many workers need a seasoned lawyer to guide them through the process. Reach out to Hart Law to schedule your free consultation by calling (803) 771-7701.