If you have suffered a recent injury while on the job, you may be eligible for several types of benefits through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy. In South Carolina, state law requires most businesses to carry WC coverage, which may provide compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and more.
However, to ensure that you receive needed benefits, it is important that you report your injury early, seek appropriate medical care and keep track of health care records related to your recovery.
1. Report your injury quickly
The first step in establishing your claim for benefits is notifying your employer of your injury and requesting medical treatment. Keep in mind that, under SC law, you may need to report a work-related incident within a limited time period to remain eligible for workers’ comp.
2. Visit an approved doctor
Once you have reported your injury, workers’ compensation may entitle you to pay for necessary medical treatments, including surgery, medical supplies, hospitalization, prescriptions and other costs. However, in South Carolina, you may have to visit a doctor approved by either your employer or your employer’s insurance representative to receive benefits.
3. Follow through with recommended care
If you do not follow through with the physician’s recommended treatments, an insurance adjuster may try to argue that your injury is not as severe as you claim. Making sure to follow your treatment plan and keep copies of your medical bills, tests and reports may help you to make a strong case for full compensation.
Receiving a rejection of WC benefits may not mean you are ineligible to receive compensation. If your employer or an insurer has denied your claim, you may be able to appeal the decision by requesting a hearing with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission.
