5 Facts about Workers Compensation in South Carolina

Workers compensation is a topic frequently ignored until attention is needed to be paid to it. If you or a loved one recently got injured on the job, it’s important to understand your rights in South Carolina. If you haven’t already spoken to an attorney, it’s important to contact a workers’ compensation attorney that can fight for your rights.

Here are the top things you may not know about workers’ compensation:

• Workers compensation in South Carolina is “no-fault”
  • No-fault workers’ compensation means even if your injury was a result of recklessness, you are entitled to benefits. This doesn’t apply if you intentionally hurt yourself or were under the influence. If your employer is trying to withhold compensation because they claim it was your fault, you should immediately contact a workers’ compensation attorney.

• There are a few exceptions to who is covered under workers’ comp laws. If you work for a company with less than 4 employees, or if your company has a payroll of less than $3,000 annually, you might not be covered under South Carolina’s laws. Additionally, some industries like agriculture and realtors may also not be covered.
• Your employer cannot legally fire you after you file a workers’ compensation claim. If they attempt to do this, contact a workers’ compensation attorney right away so you can discuss legal action.
• The cost of your medical treatments should be covered from day one of your incident. This is covered by your employer’s insurance and includes things like hospitalization, medical supplies, surgery and more.
• Workers compensation also covers work-related illnesses. For example, if you were exposed to harmful chemicals or harmful conditions, you can also seek workers’ compensation.

If you have questions about workers’ compensation laws in South Carolina, contact the law offices of John Price for a confidential consultation on your rights.