Workplace accidents are disturbingly common. Even without working in construction, you may overexert yourself or suffer a repetitive motion injury. If you are too injured to work, your medical bills may cause financial hardship.
You may have a long road to recovery after suffering an accident on the job. Fortunately, a Moncks Corner workers’ compensation attorney from Miller, Dawson, Sigel & Ward can help you file a claim. We know you need your benefits and won’t let any setbacks prolong the process.
Working With a Moncks Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you have been injured at work for the very first time, the thought of filing a workers’ compensation claim may feel overwhelming. While you do not necessarily need a lawyer to file your claim, you should at least consult with one. Working with an attorney can help you immensely.
Concentrate on Your Wellbeing
After sustaining an injury, your first priority should be to get better. Whether your accident was minor or catastrophic, you will need to rest and recuperate. Don’t let the stress of dealing with insurance and paperwork take precedence over your recovery.
Let Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward Injury Attorneys handle your accident claim so that you can direct your efforts on regaining your health.
Results You Can Count On
If you are covered by workers’ compensation insurance, you may have a right to receive benefits. Unfortunately, your employer may dispute your claim or the insurance company may not offer to cover all your medical bills. Working with a legal advocate can ensure you are treated fairly and receive the benefits you deserve.
Our workers’ compensation attorneys in Moncks Corner understand the steps you need to take after a workplace accident and we are ready to help you get started.
What Damages Are Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation insurance claims offer limited benefits to injured workers. You are not eligible to receive the same damages you might expect from a personal injury lawsuit. For example, you cannot claim damages for pain and suffering.
Your workers’ compensation claim will cover damages like:
- Medical treatment
- Future medical care needs
- 66% of your average income
- Lost earning capacity
An attorney from our legal team can review the details of your claim to give you an idea of what your workers’ compensation case is worth.
Death Benefits
If you lost a loved one in a fatal workplace accident, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation death benefits. Under South Carolina Code § 42-9-110, qualifying family members may recover:
- An injured relative’s medical expenses
- Funeral expenses up to $12,000
- Two-thirds of a loved one’s average wages for up to 500 weeks
Typically, an employee’s spouse or dependent children may claim death benefits. A workers’ compensation lawyer in Moncks Corner can determine whether you qualify for death benefits.
Is There a Time Limit to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in South Carolina?
Inform your employer about your accident on the job within 90 days. Your workers’ compensation claim has to be filed with the South Carolina agency within two years of the accident. Usually, an employer will file the claim on your behalf.
You should report your accident to your employer as soon as possible. That will ensure your claim is filed promptly and you get the benefits you need. Your case will be stronger if the accident is fresh in your mind and the evidence is still valid.
Can I Sue My Employer for a Worksite Accident?
Unfortunately, you likely cannot sue your employer for a worksite injury. Workers’ compensation insurance prevents common personal injury lawsuits from congesting the courts. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 2.5 million workplace injuries occurred in 2018 alone.
However, there are exceptions under certain circumstances. You may be able to sue your employer if your state requires employers to have workers’ compensation insurance and your employer doesn’t provide it. You may also be able to sue an employer for gross negligence or purposely harming you.
Suing your employer may allow you to recover non-economic damages that workers’ compensation claims do not provide. Our workers’ compensation lawyers in Moncks Corner can advise you on whether you are eligible for a lawsuit against your employer.
Schedule Your Free Case Review With a Moncks Corner Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
The Moncks Corner workers’ compensation attorneys at Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward Injury Attorneys want everyone to have excellent legal care. We represent the underdog and prevent insurance companies from taking advantage of our clients. Call us today if you were hurt at work in Moncks Corner, South Carolina.