Experiencing a workplace injury can be devastating, but understanding the right things to do can help secure your well-being, your financial situation, and your legal entitlements. However, with everything you have going on, between dealing with the initial injury, going through medical care/recovery, and the lost time at work, it can be difficult to also educate yourself on the legal ins-and-outs of workplace injuries.
If you find yourself the unfortunate victim of a workplace incident in South Carolina, the professionals at Jeffcoat Injury & Accident Lawyers in South Carolina suggest following these steps:
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your primary concern should be your health and safety. If your injury is severe, dial 911 or head to the nearest emergency room. For less serious injuries, notify your boss and request medical treatment.
South Carolina law mandates that workers’ compensation pay for medical care related to on-the-job injuries. However, you must see a doctor approved by your employer unless it’s an emergency.
Report the Injury to Your Employer
The law in South Carolina says that you must tell your employer about any work-related injury right after it happens or, at the very latest, 90 days after the event. If you wait too long, you may end up forfeiting your rights to the benefits that should come to you under workers’ compensation.
When you report, be as specific as possible about the injury itself, the conditions that led to it, and any effects you may be experiencing.
Key Points:
- Report workplace injury to employer immediately, but no later than 90 days post-accident
- Not reporting in time may lead to losing the right to get workers’ compensation
- Be specific about how, where, and what the injury entails
- File a Workers’ Compensation claim
Follow Your Treatment Plan
Jeffcoat Injury & Accident Lawyers in South Carolina strongly recommend sticking to the medical therapy your authorized healthcare provider has prescribed. Go to all of your medical appointments, follow your doctor’s orders, and keep track of your symptoms and how you respond to treatment. If you do not comply with your treatment plan, it could affect your benefits.
Keep Records and Documentation
Keep detailed accounts of your work incident, healthcare, and any talks with your employer or insurance firm. This means:
- Making a record of the day-to-day events leading up to your accident, the accident itself, and the aftermath
- Keeping all medical records which should include diagnosis, prognosis, medical reports and treatment plan
- Keeping all correspondences with your employer and insurance company
- Billing and medical records
- Out-of-pocket expense receipts
- Correspondence by email or letter, pertaining to your injury and claim
- Statements from witnesses, if they are accessible
Jeffcoat Injury & Accident Lawyers in South Carolina Will Make Certain Your Interests Are Represented
Injuries that occur at work can have grave results, but understanding your rights and taking the proper actions can make sure that you receive the medical attention and monetary reimbursement you should get.
If you are hurt in a work-related incident in South Carolina, move fast, make records of everything, and get legal counsel if you feel like you aren’t being treated fairly by the company and/or its insurance providers.