When And Why You Should Hire A Workers’ Comp Lawyer
When you have been injured or suffered a work related illness, the process of getting your rightful compensation should be straightforward. However, that’s not always the case given the breadth of workers’ comp laws in the Palmetto State. While South Carolina law does not require an injured worker to hire a workers’ comp lawyer when filing a workers’ comp claim, getting one can improve your odds of receiving your benefits. Only an experienced South Carolina workers’ comp lawyer can protect your rights if your employer or their insurer decides to dispute your claim.
When To Hire a South Carolina Workers’ Comp Lawyer
Although you could handle your South Carolina workers’ comp claim without a lawyer, some situations call for the guidance and expertise of South Carolina workers’ comp lawyers. Some of the situations include:
- Your claim gets denied – Insurance carriers can deny claims for various reasons, some of which are invalid. An experienced South Carolina workers’ comp lawyer can help you challenge their denial.
- The insurance company demands that you give a recorded statement – If the insurance adjuster demands you record a statement after filing a work injury claim, it would be best to involve an attorney who can guide you so you don’t make a mistake that can damage your right to compensation.
- Your employer threatens to fire you if you file a workers’ comp claim – If your employer is threatening you with consequences if you file a claim, contact a workers’ comp lawyer immediately to protect your legal rights.
- Your permanent disability is disputed – The most significant portion of a workers’ compensation settlement is awarded as temporary or permanent disability benefits. The benefits are calculated depending on your permanent impairment rating from your treating doctor, which the insurance company may dispute. If the company is disputing then it’s time to get an attorney.
- You are having trouble getting medical help – Some insurance companies will often delay and deny approval for expensive medical procedures to save on costs. An experienced South Carolina workers’ comp lawyer can help you pressure the insurer to provide timely approval for all necessary medical treatments for your work injury.
- You suffer catastrophic injuries – Catastrophic injuries usually lead to temporary or permanent total disability that can be very costly to insurance companies, and for that reason, insurance carriers will do almost anything to keep you from getting what you deserve. Always ensure that you work with a reliable South Carolina workers’ comp attorney when filing a catastrophic injury claim.
South Carolina Workers’ Comp Statute of Limitations
Your right to file for compensation for a work related injury does not last indefinitely in South Carolina. Generally speaking, the statute of limitations (the time limit within which to file a workers’ comp claim) is two years from the date of the work accident.
Under South Carolina Law there are several deadlines you need to be aware of when filing a workers compensation claim; it’s not just the statute of limitations that matters. An experienced South Carolina workers’ comp lawyer will be aware of all the filings and deadlines applicable to your claim.
Why Hire a South Carolina Workers Comp Lawyer?
Although it is possible to pursue your benefits without having an experienced lawyer, working with a South Carolina workers’ compensation lawyer can make your chances of recovering a fair settlement for your damages much higher.
A workers’ comp lawyer helps you pursue your claim while allowing you to focus on your physical health and recovery, which should be your top priority. Better still, a lawyer can help you avoid the complex and costly mistakes that may arise when dealing with your employer’s insurer.
Other reasons that make a skilled South Carolina workers’ comp lawyer necessary include the following:
- Insurance can be complex and complicated and you don’t want to make costly mistakes
- The opposing side has attorneys to fight your claim so you should equip yourself with a workers’ comp attorney who can fight back
- A South Carolina workers’ comp lawyer is familiar with the state’s court system and everything to do with how to succeed in a workers’ comp claim.
What Exactly Does a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Do?
The South Carolina workers’ comp process should be smooth. Unfortunately, that is rarely the case, but an experienced South Carolina workers’ comp lawyer can help you when things get complicated. When filing a claim, your workers’ comp lawyer will:
- Handle the Paperwork
- Inform you of what to expect and what is needed to succeed in your claim
- Help you gather and present the evidence including witness testimonies, doctor reports, and any other evidence relating to your case
- Develop a winning strategy
- Negotiate with the insurer (in cases where a claim is settled without going to trial)
- Prepare you to answer questions in court
- Provide compassion and emotional support throughout the process
Considering that most lawyers will offer a free initial consultation, it wouldn’t hurt to consult one if you’ve suffered an injury on the job. During the consultation, your lawyer can advise you on whether your case needs legal representation or not.
Ready to Have an Experienced South Carolina Workers’ Comp Lawyer on Your Case?
If you have suffered a work-related injury or illness in South Carolina, there’s no need to panic. Our team at the Law Office of Mary E. Jordan, LLC can help ensure you receive all the benefits and compensation to which you are entitled. When you hire our team, we’ll fight aggressively against your employer’s insurance company and defend your rights to compensation. Contact us online or give us a call at (843) 689-9565 today to schedule your free consultation.
