If you sustain an injury on the job, your employer will likely simply give you paperwork to fill out to begin the application process for workers’ compensation benefits.1 In too many situations, a worker will assume that their employer and its workers’ compensation insurer have their best interests in mind and will not even consider discussing their case with a qualified South Carolina workers’ compensation attorney. Unfortunately, employers and insurance companies are often seeking to limit their liability and reduce costs and, therefore, do not always grant you the benefits to which you are entitled. The following are examples of only some ways in which an experienced attorney can help you during the workers’ compensation process.
Calculate the benefits you deserve for your losses
Many injured or ill workers are not aware how to calculate the correct amount of benefits they should be receiving for medical treatment and lost wages under state law.2 The calculations can be complex and an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can review your case and advise you whether you are receiving everything to which you are entitled.
Help you decide whether to accept a settlement offer
Many workers’ compensation insurers will offer you a lump sum settlement in lieu of continuing payments. While settlements can be beneficial, many workers hastily accept a settlement that is too low and, therefore, lose the right to claim future benefits for their injury. If you have a particularly serious, long-lasting, or permanent injury, you should always have a lawyer review your case before accepting a settlement offer.
Help you appeal a wrongful denial
Many injured workers are shocked to receive a denial of benefits, either because of a paperwork error, a mistake by a doctor, or a belief that the injury did not actually occur at work. The appeal process can be complicated and extensive and the assistance of a skilled attorney is imperative.
Find out how an experienced Charleston, SC workers’ compensation attorney can help you
Having quality representation by an attorney who understands the often complex and confusing workers’ compensation process in South Carolina can only improve your chances of receiving the full amount of compensation to which you are entitled under the law. Discussing your case with the Law Firm of Walter Hundley does not cost you anything, so please do not hesitate to call our office at 866-723-1995 or 866-723-1995 for assistance today.
References:
1https://www.wcc.sc.gov/pages/default.aspx
2https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t42c009.php
