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The percentage of your wage workers’ compensation will pay in South Carolina is typically two-thirds, so you will receive 66 2/3 of your average weekly wage. The South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission states that the maximum weekly compensation in SC is $963.37. So, while you will not get your full weekly wage, you will receive the majority of your wage.
If you are injured at work or are diagnosed with an illness or disease related to your job, you could apply for workers’ compensation benefits and receive this financial compensation.
How Long You Can Keep Receiving Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
According to S.C. Ann § 42-9-10(21), in general, you can receive benefits for a maximum of 500 weeks. The allotted time may vary according to the type and severity of your injury. Accordingly, S.C. Ann § 42-9-30 entitles you to:
- 185 weeks of your average weekly wage for the loss of a hand
- 223 weeks of your average weekly wage for the loss of an arm
- 195 weeks of your average weekly wage for the loss of a leg
- 140 weeks of your average weekly wage for the loss of an eye
- 80 weeks of your average weekly wage for the loss of hearing
This is only a partial listing. The lawyer who represents you in your request for benefits will make sure you understand the maximum number of weeks for which you can receive compensation.
The amount of weekly financial benefits you receive is dependent upon your overall income before your injury, the extent of your injuries, and the length of time you will be unable to work. Your lawyer can help ensure your medical records accurately reflect the severity of your injury.
Your Eligibility Does Not Start as Soon as the Injury Happens
Just as benefits have an anticipated end date, they also have a clearly defined start date. For the first seven days after an injury, you are ineligible for workers’ compensation’s financial benefits. You become eligible for benefits on the eighth day after your injury occurs, and prevents you from returning to work.
Any time you spend away from work without pay can cause financial hardship. The lawyer you choose to help you fight for benefits will review all paperwork related to your case. He can ensure the information it contains is accurate and that your benefits start on the correct date.
You Do Not Need an Attorney To File a Claim for Workers’ Compensation
You can file a claim on your own in South Carolina, but the process is complex and can be frustrating. When you choose to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer, you put familiarity with federal, state, and local law behind your fight for benefits. Your lawyer can:
- Explain applicable laws and their impact on your case
- Review your medical records and reports
- Locate and interview witnesses
- Handle all forms and documentation
- Represent you in negotiations
Your attorney will make sure you understand the application process and provide you with ongoing updates. He will also make sure your application is complete and contains all requested information.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 828.286.3866
Additional Benefits of Securing Workers’ Compensation Benefits
According to South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission guidelines, you are entitled to benefits in three categories—loss of income, medical benefits, and permanent disability.
Covering the wages you cannot earn while you recover is an important part of workers’ compensation. However, there are additional benefits you should be aware of, including:
- Treatment-related travel expenses
- Retraining expenses if you cannot return to your former job
- Financial compensation for permanent disabilities
- Death benefits for families of fatally injured workers
On your own, it can be difficult to understand the full range of benefits you are entitled to. Your workers’ compensation lawyer can carefully examine your case and fight for the benefits you need to foster a healthy recovery and support yourself and your family throughout.
Injured South Carolina Workers Can Also Receive Medical Care
You could also receive medical care for your injury at no cost to you. Your medical benefits continue throughout your recovery. Your health care provider will routinely evaluate your condition.
They will also let you know when you have reached the maximum expected medical improvement. Your lawyer can ensure you understand the full range of benefits you are entitled to.
We Will Help You Get Workers’ Compensation Benefits in South Carolina
If you were hurt or became ill at work, our law firm could help you file an effective case for workers’ compensation. We can also help you fight for fair benefits and file an appeal if your initial claim is denied.
Learn more about what percentage of your wage workers’ compensation pays in South Carolina by contacting our case review team at Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC today.
