What to Do After a Workplace Injury in South Carolina

Steps to take after a Greenville workplace injury

When you suffer a workplace injury, you might not just be physically hurt, but also upset and confused. At Mann Law Firm, John Mann is an accomplished Greenville, SC workers compensation attorney who has a strong track record representing clients throughout the area who seek reimbursement for the medical bills, rehabilitation expenses and lost wages associated with an on-the-job accident. You can rely on the firm for sound legal guidance, but there are also ways you can help yourself in a potential workers’ compensation case.

Attorney advises on workers’ compensation claims and personal injury actions

As a workers’ compensation lawyer with more than 30 years of experience, John Mann understands how to create a compelling case for individuals who suffer an injury at work. Whatever your particular incident involves, there are some steps you should take to give yourself the best chance of a favorable outcome, such as:

• Notifying your employer — Many people try to work through the pain after getting hurt on the job, but this can be a big mistake. If you do not notify your employer within 90 days of your injury, you might give up your right to workers’ compensation benefits. Even if you remain eligible, the fact that you waited so long to report what happened could be used against you in a workers’ comp proceeding, or any resulting litigation.
• Getting medical attention — In some on-the-job accidents, the harm is immediately apparent and victims get the urgent medical attention they need. However, in other instances, an employee might choose to self-medicate or stay away from the doctor in hopes that things will get better on their own. Even if you expect to recover quickly from your ailments, it is critical to see a healthcare professional who can assess the extent of your injuries and advise as to whether other symptoms may present themselves down the road.
• Documenting everything — The more information you have, the better, especially if your version of what happened is being challenged. Sometimes, an insurer will push back on a worthy workers’ compensation claim by alleging the victim wasn’t actually hurt at work or that they were engaging in an activity unrelated to their job. Take photos of the scene and write down your impressions and the names of any witnesses.
• Understanding your options — Workers’ compensation benefits reimburse you for medical costs and a portion of the income you’ve lost because of an accident that occurred in the course of your job duties. However, if the negligence of a third party (not your employer or co-worker) contributed to your injury, you might be able to collect damages for these items in a personal injury lawsuit.
• Knowing when to hire a lawyer — After a workplace injury, you might receive a prompt settlement offer. If you’re facing the prospect of medical bills and time out of work, it can be very tempting to take the deal. Insurance companies and defense lawyers know this and exploit victims’ circumstances to get away with paying less than they otherwise would owe. Hiring a qualified attorney means you have someone on your side fighting for the compensation you deserve. John Mann can identify what types of decisions and settlements have been made in other cases in the area that involve similar injuries. If you have concerns about the doctor provided by your employer’s workers’ compensation carrier, the firm can advise you about getting a second opinion.

Taking effective action from the moment you’re hurt on the job could have a significant impact on the eventual outcome of your claim.

Contact a South Carolina workplace injury lawyer for a free phone consultation

Mann Law Firm in Greenville represents injured South Carolina employees in workers’ compensation claims. For a free telephone consultation regarding your legal options, please call 864-326-0535 or contact the firm online.