Workers' Compensation Claims in Conway: Your Guide After a Workplace Injury

Health Care

Nurses and medical staff may be exposed to infectious diseases and face physical injuries from patient handling. The emotional toll of caring for others can also lead to stress-related injuries. Implementing proper lifting techniques, infection control measures, and adequate staffing can help reduce these on-the-job accidents for health care workers.

Retail and Hospitality

Slip and fall accidents, as well as injuries from lifting heavy objects, may occur. Long hours on foot can also lead to chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis. Regular maintenance of floors and proper training in ergonomics can significantly reduce these risks for hospitality and retail workers.

 Construction

Falls from heights, equipment-related injuries, and struck-by incidents pose significant dangers on job sites. The fast-paced nature of construction work can sometimes lead to safety shortcuts, increasing the risk of accidents. Strict adherence to OSHA guidelines and regular safety audits are essential in this industry.

Education

Teachers and staff may suffer repetitive stress injuries, slip and fall injuries, or even injuries from student interactions. The physical demands of classroom management and potential safety hazards in school buildings create unique risks. Implementing ergonomic workstations and maintaining safe school environments are critical preventive measures.

5 Important Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury

If you've been hurt on the job in Conway, taking the right actions may help protect your workers’ compensation benefits. We encourage you to:

1. Seek medical attention. Your health is the top priority. Even if an injury seems minor, get it checked out immediately. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not show immediate symptoms but can have serious long-term effects if left untreated.
2. Report the injury. Inform your supervisor or employer about the accident as soon as possible, preferably in writing. This creates an official record of the incident and starts the clock on your workers' compensation claim. Be sure to keep a copy of this report for your own records.
3. Document everything. If possible, take photos of the accident scene and keep detailed notes about the incident and your injuries. This documentation can be crucial if there are any disputes about your claim. 
4. Gather witness information. If coworkers saw the accident, get their contact information for potential statements later. Eyewitness accounts can provide valuable support for your claim, especially if there are any questions about how the injury occurred.
5. Avoid social media. Refrain from posting about your injury online, as it could potentially be used against your claim. Insurance companies often monitor social media accounts for evidence that could contradict your reported injuries or limitations.

Critical Components of South Carolina Workers' Compensation Law

South Carolina's workers' compensation system is designed to benefit employees injured on the job. 

Most employers with four or more employees are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. This ensures workers have access to benefits if they're injured, regardless of the company's financial situation.

You don't need to prove your employer was at fault to receive benefits. 

You usually have 90 days to report an injury and two years to file a workers’ compensation claim. It's crucial to act promptly to protect your rights, as failing to meet these deadlines could result in a loss of benefits.

Types of Compensation Available in Conway Workers' Comp Claims

A successful workers' compensation claim in Conway can provide various forms of financial support, including:

Medical Benefits

You should be compensated for all necessary medical treatment related to your work injury. Medical expenses may include doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and even travel expenses for medical appointments.

Wage Replacement

If you can’t work, you may receive payments based on your disability and how long you are out of work. These benefits include:

• Temporary total disability (TTD). TTD payments replace a portion of your lost wages while you're unable to work. In South Carolina, these benefits are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to a maximum set by state law.
• Permanent partial disability (PPD). PPD provides compensation for lasting impairments that affect your ability to work. The amount and duration of these benefits depend on the severity of your impairment and which body part is affected.
• Permanent total disability (PTD). Long-term benefits may be available if you cannot return to any type of work. These benefits can continue for a significant period.

Vocational Rehabilitation

You may get assistance finding new employment if you can't return to your previous job. This can include job training, resume preparation, and job search assistance to help you transition to a new career that accommodates your limitations.

Your exact benefits will be based on your specific injuries.

How to Choose the Right Conway Workers' Compensation Lawyer for You

Selecting the right attorney to handle your workers' compensation claim is an important decision. Here's what to look for when choosing a Conway workers' compensation lawyer:

• Workers’ compensation experience. Look for an attorney who handles workers' compensation claims. At Derrick Law, we have thirty years of experience representing injured workers. While past results do not guarantee future results, you can read about some of our workers’ compensation case results here.
• Reviews and reputation. You may find other clients’ reviews helpful as you choose an attorney. We invite you to read all of our workers’ compensation testimonials. Here’s what a few injured workers in Conway have said about us. J.S. said, "Derrick Law Firm was compassionate and concerned for my injury, and was treated with the utmost respect. Would definitely use them again." S.R. said, “Simply put, Choosing Brandon to represent my daughter in her worker's comp case was hands down one of the best decisions I made. Brandon and his team made my life so easier. No more run arounds, no more playing phone tag with the workers comp adjuster. I finally got a chance to take care of my daughter and nurse her back to health." Again, any prior result achieved on behalf of one client does not guarantee the same or similar result for another clients, and all cases are different, but you may find it helpful to read some of our testimonials.
• Clear communication. Your lawyer should be able to explain complex legal concepts in terms you can understand. They should also be responsive to your questions and keep you updated on your case's progress.
• Resources and support. Consider the size and resources of the law firm. Make sure the firm you choose has has appropriate resources and experience to dedicate to your case, including investigators and medical experts if needed.

Why You Need a Conway Workers' Compensation Lawyer

Navigating the workers' compensation system can be overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with an injury. Our workers' compensation lawyers can help prepare your claim and fight for your benefits. We are here to guide you through every step of the process, and we will work tirelessly to protect your rights.