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If you have been injured on the job for the first time, you may not be fully aware of workers’ compensation and how the process works. While you deal with physical pain, you likely also have some concerns about how to pay your bills. Fortunately, workers’ compensation can help you.

The following are some of the more common questions employees have about workers’ compensation benefits.

What Is the First Step After an Injury?

Once you are hurt in a work accident, you need to notify, as quickly as possible, your direct supervisor or someone in a supervisory capacity.  If you have a substantial injury, one of your co-workers should notify your supervisor for you if possible. You should not wait to see if you will get better before reporting the injury.

Your employer and/or the insurance company may question whether you were hurt at work if you wait too long to report the injury to your employer.

You should also ask for medical attention after a work injury. If the injury is not an emergency, you need to ask for medical care when you inform your supervisor of the accident.  If they refuse to provide you medical care you should see a doctor for your own health and for purposes of documenting your injuries.

How Long Does the Case Take?

The length of your workers’ compensation case will depend on the injury you have. If you have a minor injury, your case will typically take a short time to resolve. If you have a serious injury or an injury that results in a disability, the claim can take a long time to resolve.

Can You Lose Your Job?

In the state of South Carolina, you can technically lose your job at any time for any reason or for no reason.  However, your employer cannot terminate your employment in retaliation from your employer for making a workers’ compensation claim. You can, however, lose your job while your claim is in process for various reasons, but not because you filed a claim and are receiving benefits.

How Much Is Your Payment?

In South Carolina, you will receive 66 2/3% of your average gross wages while you are out of work on a workers’ compensation claim. To determine your benefits, your average weekly gross wages are calculated. This number is not the same as your typical weekly pay.

It is very important that the wages be properly calculated to ensure that you receive the correct compensation.

Work-related injuries are frustrating and scary if you do not have enough funds to pay your expenses. If you need assistance with your workers’ compensation claim, please contact us at Smith Jordan, Attorneys at Law. We will work hard to ensure you receive the medical care and other benefits that you deserve.  We will also work diligently on your behalf for a fair payment to you for any permanent disability as a result of your injuries. Contact us today by visiting our website.