If you or a loved one were seriously injured in an on the job accident in South Carolina, you need to have a compensation lawyer working on the workers comp case immediately. As Columbia workers compensation attorneys, the Strom Law Firm in South Carolina offers local expertise and is readily available to assist injured workers in Columbia. The Columbia Workers Comp Lawyers at the Strom Law Firm can ensure that your personal injury claim is timely initiated, preserved, and filed to seek the compensation you deserve.

Our legal team is dedicated to representing injured workers and injury victims, providing aggressive legal representation to protect your rights and secure the maximum benefits available. While the Marc Brown Law Firm is recognized as a reputable provider in injury and accident cases, Strom Law Firm stands out for its client-centric approach and personalized service for every client.

Have you or someone you know been injured while working in Columbia, South Carolina? A worker in the United States is injured on the job every seven seconds, according to the National Safety Council. In 2017, there were over two million reports of on-the-job injuries and illnesses. Filing a worker’s compensation claim can be confusing, especially for injured workers. An experienced Columbia personal injury Lawyer can help navigate through the issues and questions that will arise when filing a compensation claim.

Introduction to Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation is a vital safety net for employees who suffer injuries or illnesses as a result of their job. In South Carolina, the law requires most employers with four or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance, ensuring that injured workers have access to essential financial and medical benefits. The workers’ compensation system is designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs that arise from workplace injuries or occupational illnesses. Navigating a workers’ compensation claim can be complex, but an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help injured workers understand their rights, file the necessary paperwork, and pursue the benefits they are entitled to under South Carolina law. Whether you are facing mounting medical bills or are unable to work due to your injury, workers’ compensation is there to provide support during your recovery.

Workers’ Compensation Statistics

• Every hour in the U.S., there are 510 workers injured on the job. That would be 12,600 reports in a day and a total of 88,500 a week.
• In 2017, the National Safety Council reported these injuries and illnesses resulted in 104,000,000 production days being lost.
• Overexertion from repetitive motions and the action of lifting and lowering accounted for almost 34 percent of workplace injuries that resulted in a loss of workdays. These were the most common injury reported, according to the National Safety Council, with contact with objects and equipment and slips, trips, and falls coming in second and third at roughly 25 percent. Sprains and strains are the most common workers’ compensation scenarios, accounting for roughly one-third of claims, and are frequently the result of a work related injury.
• The occupation with the highest number of workplace injuries was service industry workers – firefighters, police officers, and other first responders. Other fields seeing high numbers of injuries include transportation/shipping, manufacturing/production; installation, maintenance, and repair; and the construction industry.
• In 2017, there were 4,414 preventable work deaths. This was after three years of increase in number. In addition to this, there were 733 homicides and suicides in the workplace that year.
• In 2018, the construction industry experienced its most significant number of fatal injuries, followed by transportation and warehousing.
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports there were over 32,000 workplace injury cases in 2016 in South Carolina. Of those, over 18,000 missed days away from work, and almost 10,000 involved a job transfer or restriction.

Types of Workplace Injuries

Workplace injuries can happen in any industry and can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering conditions. Some of the most common types of workplace injuries include sprains, strains, and fractures, often resulting from slips, trips, and falls. Construction accidents and motor vehicle accidents are also frequent causes of serious injuries for South Carolina workers. In addition, repetitive strain injuries, such as those caused by performing the same motion over time, can lead to chronic pain and disability. Occupational illnesses, like respiratory issues or skin conditions, may develop after exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace. No matter the type or severity of the injury, a Columbia workers compensation lawyer can help injured workers understand their options and guide them through the process of seeking compensation through the Columbia workers compensation system.

Benefits of Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation offers a range of benefits designed to help injured workers recover and maintain financial stability after a workplace injury. Medical coverage is a key benefit, ensuring that injured workers receive necessary medical treatment, including doctor visits, hospital care, surgeries, and rehabilitation. Wage replacement benefits provide partial income to help cover lost wages while the worker is unable to perform their job duties. For those who suffer a permanent disability as a result of their injury, workers’ compensation may provide ongoing disability benefits to support long-term needs. Navigating these benefits can be challenging, but a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney can help injured workers understand what they are entitled to and assist them in applying for and receiving the full range of benefits available under South Carolina law.

How to File A Workers’ Compensation Claim In Columbia with Columbia Workers Comp Lawyers

In South Carolina, workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance program that provides financial assistance to employees injured while performing job-related duties.

The South Carolina Bar provides workers and employers with a brief overview of the workers’ compensation process:

• The South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act entitles injured workers arising out of and in the course of their employment to recover medical expenses, compensation for lost time, and permanent disability benefits in the event the employee suffered any permanent injuries. South Carolina employers with four or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
• In South Carolina, your employer has the right to select the treating physician and facility for your medical care. While some workers prefer to see their doctor, the employer may not be liable to pay those medical expenses. This does not preclude injured workers from seeing their doctor, but the injured worker will likely pay the costs. Medical providers typically send bills directly to the insurance carrier for payment, ensuring proper medical coverage for work-related injuries.
• An on-the-job injury must be reported immediately to a supervisor. At the same time, it is important to request that all appropriate medical treatment be covered by workers’ comp. Your employer is responsible for reporting the accident to their insurance carrier after you notify them. You have the right to hire an experienced workers’ compensation attorney as soon as the injury is reported.
• If the workers’ comp claim is denied with no foreseeable resolution, you or your attorney can file a Form 50 with the Workers’ Compensation Commission. This will start the legal process of filing a claim and communicating with the employer or their insurance company. Workers compensation law in South Carolina involves specific procedures and deadlines, and workers compensation attorneys or a workers comp attorney can help ensure all required documentation is correctly filed and deadlines are met.
• Insurance company disputes can arise, with insurance companies often having teams of lawyers and adjusters trained to deny valid claims or argue that the injury did not occur in the course of employment. This makes legal representation crucial to protect your rights and advocate for maximum benefits.
• The employer or insurance company will then answer the claims in Form 50, and a hearing will be held before a Commissioner. It can take anywhere from three to five months for the hearing to be scheduled where the injured workers can present their case.
• The Commission will issue an Opinion and Award setting forth their ruling of fact and law and what relief the injured workers get. The decision can be appealed in the event a party is dissatisfied with the result. At that point, another hearing will be held before the other Workers’ Compensation Commissioners. After this Order is issued, a party has 14 days to appeal to the South Carolina Supreme Court.

How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Columbia, SC

Many injuries can occur in the South Carolina workplace. Depending on the industry you work in, there could be severe or even life-threatening injuries. If you experience a serious injury that requires emergency care, seek medical attention first and notify your employer afterward. If you experience an injury at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. The most common injuries we have seen with our workers’ compensation clients include:

1. Carpal tunnel syndrome: This condition affects the hand and wrist of injured workers. Working with vibrating tools or prolonged and repetitive flexing may create harmful pressure on the median nerve. Several studies have evaluated the association between computer use and carpal tunnel syndrome.
2. Head injuries: These types of injuries are commonly caused by workers coming into contact with objects in the workplace. Objects could include equipment, debris, or falling from a structure and hitting the ground. The objects can strike workers on the head and cause serious injuries and are one of the most common ways for a brain injury to occur.
3. Back and neck injuries: Many professions in SC can put significant demands on your back, making it hard to concentrate on your job. Exerting too much force by lifting or moving heavy objects, repeating precise movements, or an inactive job at a desk can contribute to back pain. Some injuries may include herniated discs or spinal cord injuries that can be life-altering or even cause death.
4. Shoulder injuries: These injuries are most common in jobs that require heavy lifting or moving, but they can also occur in office settings. Typically, these types of injuries may not appear on an X-ray, and it is important to relay all of your symptoms of the injury to your doctor for the most accurate diagnosis and treatment.
5. Hip or leg injuries: Falls can happen anywhere, but workplace falls have become a cause for workers’ compensation claims. Hip and leg injuries typically occur because of a fall or objects falling on your legs. Sometimes the job will require awkwardly rotating your legs, which could cause serious injury.
6. Catastrophic injuries: These injuries are usually entitled to compensation for total disability. As defined by state law, the loss of both hands, arms, shoulders, feet, legs, hips, or vision in both eyes, or any two thereof, constitutes a total and permanent disability. Compensation for these types of injuries are not limited to the five-hundred-week limitation for payment and entitles an injured person to lifetime benefits. Injuries can also occur from work site exposure to chemical and water contamination.
7. Workplace deaths: In 2018,SCOSHA reported there were 898 total fatal injuries in the workplace. The State Accident Fund explains that these deaths allow for a benefit payment equal to 500 weeks based on the compensation rate prescribed by S.C. law. You can also receive burial expenses up to $2,500. These benefits are exempt from creditor claims and all estate taxes. A claim to receive death benefits must be filed with the Commission within two (2) years of the employee’s death.

Please note: Federal employees may be covered under different workers’ compensation rules than other South Carolina workers.

The Importance of Medical Treatment

Prompt and appropriate medical treatment is essential after any workplace accident or injury. Seeking medical attention right away not only ensures the best chance for recovery but also creates a clear record of the injury, which is crucial for a successful workers’ compensation claim. A qualified medical provider will diagnose the injury, recommend a treatment plan, and document all findings—information that is vital for the workers compensation process. Following the prescribed medical treatment plan is important for both your health and your claim, as insurance companies and the workers compensation commission will review your medical records when determining benefits. A Columbia workers compensation lawyer can help you find the right medical provider and make sure you receive the care you need to support your recovery and your claim.

Tips for Hiring the Right Columbia Workers Compensation Lawyers

When you get injured at work, it could mean losing your livelihood, especially if the injuries are serious enough to leave you completely incapacitated. This is why you need a qualified and experienced work injury compensation lawyer to help you file a successful workers compensation claim. It is crucial to hire a legal team that will pursue maximum compensation and provide aggressive legal representation in workers compensation cases, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the benefits you deserve.

You’ll rely on your compensation benefits to survive, especially if you can no longer work for your South Carolina employer. Your workers’ comp lawyer understands the important steps you need to take to make a successful compensation claim in South Carolina. But how do you find the right workers’ comp lawyer in Columbia? Here are some useful tips to help you hire a good compensation attorney in South Carolina.

Do Thorough Compensation Attorney Reviews

Filing a claim that’s related to work injuries in South Carolina can be tricky because the burden of proof lies with you. That’s why it’s crucial to choose experienced workers compensation attorneys with a proven track record of guiding injured employees through the process and advocating for maximum benefits. Your workers’ comp lawyer must have the prerequisite knowledge and experience to provide enough evidence to support your injury and claim.

By reading reviews of the Columbia workers’ compensation attorney you wish to hire, you’ll know if they have the necessary competence to handle complex personal injury cases successfully. Make sure the reviews are genuine because some unscrupulous attorneys and law firms hire people to write fake reviews heaping them with praise.

Analyze Their Communication Skills

One thing that separates real lawyers from amateurs is effective communication. A good lawyer should have impeccable communication skills to effectively argue your claim and get you sufficient compensation. Your compensation lawyer should also know how to communicate with you about your claim.

As much as having enough evidence for your claim is important, the success of your case depends on your lawyer’s ability to convince the court that you’ve suffered a devastating loss due to the injury, and therefore, you deserve sufficient workers’ compensation to continue living a normal life.

Success Rate

A work injury case can be complicated, especially if your employer doesn’t want to accept liability for the injury. In such instances, your employer will employ all kinds of tactics to subvert justice and avoid paying workers’ compensation. Only an experienced compensation lawyer with an impressive success rate can successfully take such an employer to task and ensure they’re held responsible for your injuries.

So, take your time to analyze the kind of personal injury cases your attorney has handled before and their success rate. Specifically, look for an attorney with a strong record in workers compensation cases, as this will give you peace of mind knowing that your claim is in the hands of someone who knows what they’re doing.

This process includes studying the attorney’s previous cases and contacting some of their clients to learn how they feel about the attorney. Additionally, have a one-on-one discussion with your South Carolina compensation attorney during which you can ask them important questions about their qualifications, experience, and success rate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Filing a workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming, and certain missteps can jeopardize your ability to receive maximum compensation. One of the most common mistakes is failing to report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Delaying medical attention or not following through with recommended medical treatment can also harm your claim. It’s important to thoroughly document the accident, your injuries, and all medical care received. Another frequent error is accepting a settlement offer from the insurance company without first consulting a Columbia workers compensation lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you avoid these pitfalls, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve under the Columbia workers compensation system. By taking the right steps and seeking professional guidance, you can maximize your recovery and secure the support you need during this challenging time.

Frequently Asked Questions from a Columbia Workers’ Comp Lawyer

Do I have to hire a workers’ comp lawyer in order to receive workers’ compensation benefits?

There is no rule stating that a Columbia workers comp lawyer must represent you and your claim. However, as with many injury claims, having an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer working on your behalf can significantly assist you with understanding the process and obtaining the best result in your claim. A Columbia workers’ comp lawyer can help injured workers navigate the complex claims process, including managing paperwork and deadlines, to ensure all requirements are met and to avoid mistakes or additional costs that could result in your workers’ compensation claim being denied.

How do I report an on-the-job injury?

All injuries and requests for medical treatment must be reported to your employer immediately. You have 90 days in South Carolina to report your injury to your employer from the date of the accident, or you may lose your workers’ compensation benefits. Although you only have 90 days in which to report your injury to your employer, you have up to two years to file a claim for benefits with the Workers’ Compensation Commission.

How do I file a claim?

You can file a workers’ compensation claim if your employer does not report the accident, denies your injury, or if you believe you did not receive all of your benefits. To file a claim, you must submit a Form 50 or Form 52 to the Commission. An experienced Columbia Workers Comp Lawyer can assist you in filing the correct forms and marking the appropriate boxes for your claim.

How is the compensation rate determined?

You are entitled to compensation at a rate of 66 2/3 percent of your average weekly wage based on the four quarters prior to your injury. You can not receive more than the maximum average weekly wage determined each year by the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce. Any jobs you are working at the time of the accident may be included as part of the wage and compensation rate.

Will I get compensated for missing time from work?

There is a seven-day waiting period before any workers’ compensation benefits can be paid by your employer. If you are out of work for more than seven days, the payments will come from your employer’s insurance company. If this exceeds 14 days, you will receive compensation for the first seven days from your employer as well. Payments will be made directly to you and will continue until a doctor releases you to return to work.

What if the doctor releases me to light duty?

If a doctor releases you to light duty, you must accept. If you do not, any workers’ compensation you receive may cease for as long as you refuse to return to work. If you feel you are unable to do the work your employer assigned to you, you have the right to request a hearing. In the alternative, if you return to light work at a wage less than you were earning prior to the time of the original injury and before a doctor discharges you, you are entitled to compensation at the rate of 66 2/3 percent of the difference between your average weekly wage and your new wage.

Do I get reimbursed for my travel expenses when I go to the doctor?

You can be reimbursed for travel for doctor’s appointments if the round-trip travel is more than ten miles from your home. As of August 23, 2004, the Commission also approved allowance for trips to the pharmacy if the round-trip distance is more than ten miles from your home. The mileage rate is the allowable rate for South Carolina employees for mileage.

Contact Our Columbia Workers Comp Lawyers Today

If you have been injured on the job in Columbia, SC you likely have many questions about this claim filing process. While South Carolina law provides avenues for compensation for workplace injuries, it is important to know that South Carolina employers with four or more employees are legally required to provide workers’ compensation insurance. The process of filing for the benefits can be complicated and confusing for employees, but the experienced Columbia workers comp lawyers can help you secure the workers comp benefits you deserve. Let the Strom Law Firm and Pete Strom focus on the benefits, lost wages, and payment of your medical expenses so you can focus on a full recovery from your injury and getting back to work.

If you have questions or concerns about your workers’ compensation claim, call the Strom Law Firm at (803) 252-4800 to schedule a free consultation and case review.