South Carolina Workers Compensation Laws
The Workers Compensation Act provides compensation to employees who suffer injuries that occur during the course of employment. South Carolina workers compensation law states that all employers with four or more domestic employees are required to have workers compensation insurance. Establishing fault is not required to receive benefits.
Your rights under the South Carolina workers compensation act
South Carolina worker compensation laws are detailed and complex. If you are hurt on the job, it is best to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights. Some of the key points to understand about South Carolina workers comp include the following:
- Time limits: Once an injury is discovered, you have 90 days to report it or you may lose the right to benefits. However, according to South Carolina worker comp law you have up to two years to file a claim. Additionally, if an employee dies from work-related injuries, the deceased’s family has two years from the date of death to file for benefits.
- Compensation benefits: Benefits under South Carolina worker compensation law entitle individuals to compensation for lost wages, permanent injuries, as well as current and future medical expenses. Temporary disability benefits are paid at the rate of two thirds of your average weekly salary with a weekly maximum that is determined each year by the South Carolina Employment Security Commission. Permanent partial disability benefits are based on the extent of the injury and your salary before the injury occurred.
- Termination of benefits: Payments for temporary and permanent disability benefits may only continue for up to 500 weeks. When a doctor releases you to return to work, compensation is also stopped.
- Medical care: South Carolina workers compensation laws dictate that the employer or its insurance representative has the right to select the doctor who will treat you. You are entitled to all necessary medical treatment that lessens your disability including surgery, rehabilitation, hospitalization, and prescriptions.
We understand the workers' compensation system and can help you maximize your recovery
The experienced and dependable workers' compensation lawyers at Chappell, Smith & Arden have represented thousands of injured employees over the years and are ready to put that experience to work for you. Employers and their insurance carriers have lawyers working hard to minimize workers' compensation claims. It is important that you have an experienced attorney ensure your rights are protected, too.
