In 2019, there were nearly 35,000 accidents reported on the job in South Carolina. This shows that workplace accidents aren’t uncommon. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says millions of people get injured each year in the U.S. Fortunately, workers in this state can access workers’ compensation benefits to cover the costs of injuries and the time lost recovering.
A Hanahan workers’ compensation attorney from Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward can assist you with making your workers’ compensation claim. While you have the right to claim compensation, there are mistakes you must avoid that can trap you and increase the chances of your claim getting denied.
Why Workers’ Compensation Exists
There are two benefits to the system. The first is for the worker. Workers’ compensation can pay for medical expenses related to your accident and some of your lost wages. If you must change jobs, you can also get job training, or even disability payments if you cannot return to work.
For the employer, workers’ compensation protects them from getting sued by employees. Only in exceptional cases of negligence or deliberate misconduct can an employee sue their employer directly.
This system works well for many people. But sometimes, claims are denied for the wrong reasons, or insurance companies try to give you less than your case should be worth. That’s when you need the help of a workers’ compensation attorney.
What to Do After a Workplace Injury in Hanahan
There is a procedure you and your employer must follow to file a claim with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. You can lose your claim or delay it greatly If you do not perform these responsibilities. Here is a list of things you need to do:
- Report the injury to your supervisor, preferably in writing
- Visit the doctor you’re told to see by your employer (workers’ compensation will cover that diagnostic visit)
- Save all documentation related to your case and make copies of any forms you send
- Keep personal notes of how the accident happened and how your life has changed physically and mentally
- Follow all doctor’s instructions for care
If you’re not certain what needs to be done, or you feel like you can’t complete some of these because of your employer, a workers’ compensation attorney in Hanahan can guide you on what to do.
Do I Always Need a Worker’s Compensation Lawyer?
You do not need a lawyer to file a claim, but you may need one to defend it. If you’ve followed the steps above and there’s no interference from your employer, your claim may be approved and you’ll get fair compensation.
However, if you are denied or if your injuries get worse, you may need the help of a lawyer from MDSW Legal. Some of the situations that could need a lawyer include:
- Disputes about the nature or existence of your injury
- You’re denied necessary treatment from the insurer
- Your employer refuses to file a claim or interferes with it
- You become unable to work
- You’re asked to attend a hearing about your claim
- Your claim is denied
If you are in these situations, let us help you get the benefits you deserve for your situation. We can help you appeal denials and push for more benefits. Our results page speaks for itself. All it takes is one phone call or email to reach our offices for a case evaluation.
Call Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Hanahan
If you’ve suffered a workplace injury in Hanahan, contact the Hanahan workers’ compensation lawyers from Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward Injury Attorneys. Our team will contact you within 24 hours to schedule a consultation with you. Your consultation is free, and we will give you legal advice on what to do next in your workers’ compensation case.