Workplace accidents sometimes leave an employee unable to perform the same job. If you find yourself in this situation, you may qualify for vocational rehabilitation services and workers compensation permanent disability benefits.
The first step is to prove that your condition is a result of a workspace accident (or otherwise related to your work). Reach out to a capable Charleston workers compensation lawyer at our firm for help with your claim.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Charleston, SC
When a worker is injured on the job, they can file a claim for work injury compensation under the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act. The best practice here is to report the injury/accident to your employer as soon as possible.
You must also see a doctor for a written report of your injuries. Submit this report, along with a claim form, to the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission.
If your claim is approved, you’ll receive coverage for medical costs, lost wages, and so on. Plus, if you’re unable to return to work due to your injuries, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation benefits to help you retrain for a new job.
If a worker dies as a result of a workplace accident, their family can receive death benefits through workers compensation. For more specific information about benefits that apply to your case, contact an experienced Charleston work injury lawyer today.
Permanent Disability Benefits Through South Carolina Workers Comp
There are two types of permanent disability benefits in South Carolina’s workers comp system. Permanent partial disability means your ability to work is impaired, but you could still perform some type of job. You can receive two-thirds of your average weekly wages.
South Carolina law sets a limit on how many weeks you can receive PPD benefits based on your specific disability. For example, you can collect partial permanent disability benefits for 220 weeks after losing one arm.
A worker is considered to have a permanent and total disability after losing:
- Both hands
- Both shoulders
- Both arms
- Both legs
- Both feet
- Both hips
- Vision in both eyes
- 50% or more use of your back
- A combination of two major body parts (such as one arm and one leg)
If you have a “permanent and total disability” as defined above, you can receive up to two-thirds of your average weekly wages for 500 weeks. This is usually paid in a lump sum settlement.
You may collect benefits for life if your injury leaves you quadriplegic, paraplegic, or with brain damage.
Steps to Take After an Accident on the Job
If you have been in a workplace accident or have suffered an injury while on the job (an automobile accident while delivering something, for instance), you may be able to receive compensation to cover associated financial burdens.
Here’s what you should do after a workplace accident.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident or injury, even if you do not think you are seriously injured. This will help document your injuries and ensure that you get the treatment you need.
Notify Your Employer
You should notify your employer of the accident or injury as soon as possible. Your employer is required by law, more specifically, the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act, to report any workplace accidents or injuries to help you get compensated.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
Once you’ve notified your employer, preferably in writing, you must file a claim with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. Reach out to a Charleston workers compensation lawyer for help filing your claim.
Let a Charleston Work Injury Lawyer Help You
If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident in Charleston, SC, you should contact a competent lawyer at our firm. We will help you navigate the complicated workers’ compensation system so you can obtain the benefits you deserve.
Reach out to our Charleston workers’ compensation attorneys today for a free initial consultation!