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Although every state has a workers’ compensation program, each state has unique rules governing its application. For example, South Carolina requires all employers with four or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. The program also has restrictions on the medical professionals an injured employee can use for diagnosis and treatment. Making sure you receive the payments you deserve begins with learning how to apply for workers’ compensation in Greenville.
Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job. South Carolina allows employers to purchase coverage from a private company, through a state-funded program, or be self-insured. The state also maintains a fund to compensate employees if their employers fail to have coverage.
Employees should report a work-related injury within 90 days of the occurrence. Even if they don’t know if they will file a claim, workers need to ensure the incident is documented. They should consult an experienced workers’ comp attorney in Greenville who can guide them through the documentation and application process.
Employers have the right to select the medical providers their employees must use. Once the injury is reported, employers should identify the providers employees can consult for coverage of medical expenses. In emergencies, the requirement may be waived. All follow-up services should be through employer-approved providers.
Once employers receive a claim, they must file it with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission (SCWCC) within seven days. A commission member will then review the claim and either accept or deny it.
The insurance program allows employees to receive compensation for medical treatment and partial recovery of lost wages. It also provides benefits for permanent disability or death.
Medical benefits can cover treatment and rehabilitation services. It may include equipment such as wheelchairs. However, employees must use the medical professional selected by their employers. If workers fail to use the employer’s preferred provider, their benefits may be denied or reduced. In emergencies, the requirement may be waived for the initial treatment.
Employees can recover up to two-thirds of their pre-tax weekly earnings beginning eight days after the injury is reported. The weekly checks stop when a licensed physician clears employees to return to work. Workers can receive lost wages compensation for up to 500 weeks.
If work-related injuries prevent employees from returning to work, they may be eligible for ongoing compensation based on their disability. Injured parties should consult a seasoned workers’ compensation application lawyer in Greenville to ensure they are receiving the maximum possible compensation.
If employees die from a workplace injury, their survivors may collect death benefits. The maximum benefit is two-thirds of the deceased’s pre-tax earnings up to a maximum of 500 weeks.
In exchange for these benefits, employees waive the right to sue their employer for job-related injuries. Personal injury attorneys with experience managing workers’ compensation cases could advocate for their clients to ensure they receive the payments they need and deserve.
While some workers’ compensation claims may be straightforward, many injuries require complex treatment and days, if not weeks, of missed work. Work with an experienced lawyer to learn how to apply for workers’ compensation in Greenville and avoid unnecessary delays or denials. Call today to schedule a free consultation with one of the knowledgeable legal professionals at our firm.