As a South Carolinian, when you are hurt on the job you are entitled to financial support from your employer. In order to achieve the best results, we have listed the best course of action to take after a work related injury below.
I was hurt at work. What should I do?
When you are injured at work, you should report your injury to an individual with a supervisory role at your company as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need to seek emergency care first, but reporting a work-related injury within 90 days of the date of the accident is critical. Reporting after 90 days may disqualify you from receiving benefits.
Does Workers’ Compensation cover any doctor in South Carolina?
There is a possibility that medical costs will not be covered if you choose your own doctor. In South Carolina, your employer has the right to choose your treating doctor; therefore, it is important to ask for their recommended physician. Follow-up treatment must also be authorized by your employer for the costs to be covered. Do not assume a referral by a doctor has been approved by your employer. If you are unsatisfied with the care of the recommended doctor, you can ask the employer’s representative if he or she will allow you to go to another doctor. If they deny your request, you may request a hearing with the Workers’ Compensation Commissioner.
I have reported my injury to my supervisors. What should I do next in my Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Once you have reported your injury to your work supervisors, often an employer’s representative will file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Commission. However, you must also file a Form 50, or a Form 52, and submit it to the Commission within 2 years of the accident date. The forms are available to download on the Workers’ Compensation Commision website.
Do I need the help of a Lawyer for a Workers’ Comp Claim?
There are many different factors that can influence the outcome of your Workers’ Compensation Claim. Often, employers will try to deny responsibility for your work-related injury or deny payment of your medical bills. The complexity of Workers’ Compensation claims can be too much for someone to navigate alone, especially while injured. That is why enlisting the help of an experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer will help you ensure the best possible results for your case.
The lawyers of ML Lawyers have been representing individuals in the Upstate of South Carolina for over 30 years, and would love to discuss your Workers’ Compensation Claim. Please call our office today for a free initial consultation from legal professionals.
