Sustaining a serious injury that keeps you out of work is incredibly stressful. Even with a sizable emergency fund, a few missed paychecks can affect the entire family’s financial security. Fortunately, if you get hurt on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. In addition to all the necessary medical care, they include 67% of your average weekly wage while you’re recovering. 

Who Is Entitled to Workers’ Comp Benefits?

1. Covered Employee

Under South Carolina’s Workers’ Compensation Act, most individuals fall under their employer’s coverage and are entitled to benefits following an injury. Exceptions include federal employees, railroad workers, agricultural laborers, casual or temporary staff, and independent contractors. You may also be excluded if the company you work for has less than four team members and opted out of purchasing the policy. 

2. Worker Hurt on the Job

Employees are eligible for workers’ compensation if they sustain an injury while performing their job duties. Certain conditions or illnesses that develop as a direct result of the professional environment may also be covered. As long as you can prove the damages incurred are the result of employment and happened while on the job, you should be able to file a successful claim.  

3. An Individual Unimpaired at the Time of the Incident

Although fault does not usually factor into an employee’s eligibility for benefits, there are certain scenarios in which individuals can lose their right to workers’ compensation. For example, if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the incident occurred, it is typical for the insurance company to deny the claim. Likewise, you can expect a denial if your employer can prove you were blatantly ignoring reasonable safety standards at the time of the accident.

If you sustained an injury on the job and want to file a workers’ compensation claim, turn to Love-Sloan Law, LLC, in Rock Hill, SC. A personal injury attorney on their team will ensure your employer takes the case seriously and facilitates the proceedings with their insurance provider so that you can receive benefits as soon as possible. Visit the firm online to learn more about the legal support they provide, or call (803) 326-0000 to schedule an initial consultation today.