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Precedent Impacts Workers’ Compensation Disability Claims

If you’ve experienced a workplace injury, chances are you’ve gone through a number of steps to establish that the incident did indeed result in an injury, and you’ve filed for Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) payments through workers’ compensation insurance. Hopefully, that process went smoothly, and your employer has accommodated your disability by placing you on light duty, adjusting your work hours, or otherwise ensuring that you are able to retain your job.  If you recovered fully within 104 weeks, all is well, and you can return to your previous level of engagement at work. But what if the recovery has not been as successful as you’d hoped? What are your alternatives now? A Greenville, SC workers compensation attorney may be able to help.

Jones v. Food Lion

Vincent Jones found himself in precisely this situation following an on-the-job accident.  His 104 weeks of benefits expired, yet his injuries prevented him from returning to work. Even so, further benefits were denied by workers’ compensation.  Seeing no other alternative, Jones filed suit based on a precedent set by a previous case.

Westphal v. City of St. Petersburg

In this case, Westphal collected benefits for a Temporary Total Disability (TTD) until the benefits expired.  He then attempted to qualify for Permanent Total Disability (PTD), but was unable to do so because he’d not reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI).

When the court considered the situation, it found that it was unconstitutional to deny payments related to a disability resulting from a workplace injury simply because an arbitrary time period of 104 weeks had expired, if the worker was still unable to be gainfully employed.

While Jones had been looking to secure further benefits related to partial disability payments, and Westphal wanted an extension of total disability payments, the premise behind both arguments was based on the same foundation: arbitrary timelines should not be the basis for determining whether or not injured workers receive needed benefits.

Back to the Jones Case…

After considering the issues in the Westphal case, the Appellate Court found in favor of Jones, stating that benefit gaps were unconstitutional in situations involving both partial and total disability benefits and extended TPD payments for up to 260 weeks for Jones.

What Does it Mean for South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the number of weeks allowed for disability compensation differs from other states.  But the precedents set in both the Jones and Westphal cases indicated that whatever is on the books may be subject to adjustment in particular situations.  

If you are experiencing difficulties when it comes to getting the workers’ compensation payments necessary, you should know that these laws are complex, and are subject to change at any given time.  Having an experienced and knowledgeable Greenville, SC workers compensation attorney fighting on your behalf can make all the difference in the world. That’s why at the first sign of trouble, you need to call Dan Pruitt Law Firm.  Our team works tirelessly on workers’ compensation issues and will strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for you.  Schedule a free, confidential consultation in Greenville today.

What You Don’t Realize About Big Rigs

An injured tractor-trailer driver wound up in the hospital after attempting to avoid another vehicle that had made a lane change improperly along a South Carolina highway.  Although his injuries were not life-threatening, it was an alarming accident involving the loss of control of the big rig, which crossed the median, struck a barrier, and flipped over. The May 2018 accident was one of many involving these monstrous vehicles on South Carolina roadways.

 

Avoiding These Horrific Incidents

Drivers of big rigs face extraordinary challenges maneuvering cargo across the country. They encounter all kinds of drivers, all kinds of weather conditions, and both daytime and nighttime hours on the road.  As they trek across the country, it’s possible that their safety—and yours—could be enhanced if only motorists understood the nature of their work a little better.

  • The time required to bring several tons of machinery to a stop is longer than you might imagine. When drivers dart in front of big rigs, the possibility of a rear-end collision increases exponentially.  In some cases, the only other option is to swerve and potentially lose control of the rig. Neither option is appealing, and both have the potential to cause serious harm or even death.
  • The turning radius of these vehicles is substantially less than that of a personal vehicle.  Give them plenty of room when you see them signal a turn, particularly at intersections and on freeway ramps.
  • The blind spots for these rigs are enormous.  If you can’t see the driver, chances are he or she can’t see you. Avoid traveling next to a large truck.  Instead, stay a good distance behind, or choose a safe opportunity to pass them.
  • Avoid tailgating these vehicles.  They are often much higher from the ground than passenger vehicles, so if you run into one the chances of serious harm is significant.
  • Use extra caution around these rigs when weather conditions are perilous.  Truckers are expected to be on the move in order to make delivery deadlines, regardless of weather conditions.  Be sure to avoid a close encounter when slick roads or poor visibility could increase the chances of a collision.

 

What to Do if an Accident Does Occur

No one wants to be involved in a collision involving a tractor-trailer!  They are the kings of the road, to be avoided at all costs. In the event, an accident does occur that results in serious injuries or death, you can count on the experienced South Carolina Trucking Accident Attorneys at Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm to have your interests at heart.  Whether you drive the truck or are the little guy involved in the collision, we will investigate the crash and provide vigorous representation for you.  Contact us in Greenville for a free, confidential consultation today.

Improper Care Results in Nursing Home Fatalities

When a nursing home is the chosen option for elderly or incapacitated individuals, one would expect quality care by attentive staff.  Unfortunately, that is not always the case, and vulnerable adults are susceptible to negligent, and even abusive, treatment. If your loved one has not received proper care in a nursing home, speaking with a local Greenville, SC Nursing Home Abuse attorney who focuses on nursing home abuse is advisable.

Local Problems

The summer of 2018 revealed serious problems occurring in Richland County.  A report requesting a welfare check at a residential facility due to alleged lack of appropriate medicinal administration was filed with the sheriff’s department after lab work on two of the residents suggested they were not receiving suitable medications.  Investigators found that four patients were in serious peril, and placed those patients in emergency protective custody. A fifth patient’s death is being investigated.

The facility in question was no stranger to problems.  Previous investigations during the past couple of years revealed a number of issues:

  • The temperature in some rooms was only 60.5 degrees, not the required 72-78 degrees;
  • Water in bathroom sinks measured only 50 degrees;
  • Written records, including assessments and care plans, were nonexistent for some patients;
  • Expired medications were stored alongside current medications; and
  • Unclean equipment was located in the kitchen.

Negligence with Horrendous Outcomes

In more shocking incidents, patients across South Carolina have lost their lives due to improper care in nursing homes:

  • One resident in a Greer facility went into septic shock after wounds oozed with a nasty smelling, discolored drainage.  Three days after being hospitalized, he died.
  • A gentleman experienced a number of falls, eventually dying at age 75 in a Piedmont nursing home.
  • In Greenville, a woman who refused to eat or to take her medications died.
  • One man fell within hours of moving into a nursing home in Simpsonville and died weeks after surgery.

Residents’ Rights

Nursing home residents and their representatives are guaranteed certain rights under South Carolina law.  Just a few of those rights include  the following:

  • To choose a personal physician;
  • To actively participate in planning the care and treatment required;
  • To have access to medical records;
  • To be free from physical and/or mental abuse;
  • To be treated with respect and dignity; and
  • To be guaranteed of privacy.

Violations of Standards

Nursing homes are required to provide appropriate care in a safe environment for residents.  When that does not occur, legal action may be taken to address the specific violations.  In addition to fines, civil and/or criminal penalties may be in order.  Violations are divided into three classes:

  • Class I:  Situations that present an imminent danger to residents;
  • Class II:  Situations that impact residents in a negative way;
  • Class III: Situations that are in violation of recognized best practices.

If You have Serious Concerns

In the event, your loved one is not receiving the quality of care you believe is necessary and required by law, let the experienced, aggressive, and compassionate legal team at Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm fight for justice on your behalf.  We focus specifically on nursing home abuses and will demand a just and reasonable outcome. Contact us in Greenville for a confidential consultation today.

SC Nursing Home Abuse: What You Need to Know

Many people have an unpleasant picture in their minds as to what life in a nursing home is like. While it’s true that some nursing homes continue to live down to the stereotypes, the fact is that nursing homes are highly regulated these days, and many provide excellent care for residents.  If, after your search for the appropriate nursing home, you find the care to be negligent or abusive, consulting with a local attorney who specialized in these institutions may be worthwhile.

 

Who Lives at SC Nursing Homes?

While nearly 50 percent of nursing home residents are over age 85, the majority ranges in age from 65-84; only a handful are younger. Roughly three-fourths of residents are women, the majority widowed, divorced, or never married.   

 

Reasons to Consider an SC Nursing Home

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If you suspect nursing home abuse of your loved one, contact a Greenville nursing home abuse attorney today.

People move to nursing homes for a variety or reasons, but the most common one is that they have trouble handling daily activities without assistance.  Four out of five residents require help attending to daily activities such as dressing themselves, bathing, or eating. Some are able to walk, but need supervision or assistance. Many also have difficulty with vision, hearing and other functions.

But physical limitations are only part of the story.  Many individuals in nursing homes—up to 70 percent, in fact, battle with issues related to dementia.  Over 75 percent struggle to make daily decisions, and over 65 percent forget where they are from time to time or have other memory problems.

 

What SC Nursing Homes Offer

While number of factors may play into the question of whether or not nursing home care is the right choice for your loved one, it is worth understanding precisely what nursing homes have to offer: skilled nurses and physicians available to assist with a variety of medical complaints, from orthopedic problems to intravenous therapies and breathing treatments. Short-term occupational therapy or wound care may be necessary for some patients who are recovering from an accident. And some patients may require respite care, hospice attention, or other end-of-life services.  Beyond medical care, nursing homes are able to provide nutritious meals, recreational activities, companionship, and social work services.

 

The Right Home for Your Loved One

Finding the right care facility is an important decision for many families. As you consider issues such as cost, distance, and comfort, it’s nice to know that Medicaid rates nursing homes in several areas, including staffing, health inspections, and quality of care.  They consider the nurse to patient ratios, and the number of aides, therapists, and other caregivers.  Fires safety is evaluated, as well as evacuation procedures designed to deal with other types of emergencies. They look at patient care, and whether or not residents required emergency services, reported high levels of pain, or experienced pressure ulcers.

 

When You Suspect Problems, call a Greenville Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

If your loved one is not getting the care they deserve, the nursing home may be guilty of more than just ethical lapses.  They may face legal consequences. To discuss your concerns, contact Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm in Greenville today for a free, confidential consultation.

South Carolina Workers’ Compensation: What You Should Know

Workplace injuries are inevitable, regardless of the occupation.  Secretaries may develop carpal tunnel syndrome from long hours on a keyboard; warehouse workers may develop back strain from heavy lifting, chefs might experience a kitchen burn, and postal service workers could encounter a perilous situation with an angry dog.  All of these incidents, and more, entitle workers to diagnostic and medical care through South Carolina’s Workers’ Compensation.  But sometimes navigating the complex bureaucracy can be cumbersome and overwhelming. That’s when having an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer on your side can be helpful.

 

The South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act

Workers' Compensation Attorney Greenville South Carolina

Not sure if you should file a workers’ compensation claim? Reach out to Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm today!

South Carolina’s Workers’ Compensation Act (WCA) allows for employees who have experienced accidents or injuries as a result of their employment to receive medical treatment, as well as compensation for lost wages, for a period of time.  If a long-term or permanent disability results from a workplace incident, a worker is entitled to permanent disability benefits.

 

Employer Rights in South Carolina

To be sure, employers do have specific rights and responsibilities in workers’ compensation claims.  They may select the doctor you see. If you choose to be treated by your own physician in circumstances not deemed a medical emergency, it may not be reimbursable by workers’ compensation.

 

Employee Responsibilities in South Carolina

Employees are required to report workplace injuries to their employers right away, and request information as to how to obtain services from an approved physician.  Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance will then cover any treatments that are authorized by that physician.

 

Lost Wages in South Carolina

In the event you are unable to work for a period of time, workers’ compensation will compensate you roughly two-thirds of your usual weekly wages, maxing out at just over $800 per week.  

 

Disability Impairment Ratings in South Carolina

If your injury results in some degree of permanent impairment, your doctor will determine what is called the maximum medical improvement (MMI).  This designation indicates that your progress has reached its plateau, and further treatment will not significantly impact your recovery. The American Medical Association has published a guide to help physicians evaluate impairments.  Your physician will determine an impairment rating based on your circumstances, which will be used to determine the amount of compensation you receive in a workers’ compensation claim.

 

Challenges Along the Way in South Carolina

Throughout the workers’ compensation process, you will be required to follow specific procedures in order to avoid negating your workers’ compensation claim.  A number of issues may prompt you to seek legal assistance along the way. Some common problems include:

  • Your employer denies the claim altogether;
  • Your employer retaliates against you for filing a claim;
  • You wish to challenge the impairment rating assigned following an injury; or
  • You disagree with the MMI determination.

 

Legal Assistance in South Carolina

Suffering a workplace injury is bad enough without having to battle your employer and their insurance carrier for the coverage you deserve.  If you find that you are not getting a fair and reasonable response to your injuries, the aggressive and experienced team at Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm can help.  We are experienced in workers’ compensation cases, and will fight to ensure you get the treatment and financial assistance to which you are entitled. Contact us in Greenville for a free, confidential consultation today.

Hit and Run Collisions in South Carolina

There’s no such thing as a good auto collision, but everyone can agree that there’s something particularly unnerving about the hit and run accidents.  When another driver is responsible for the crash and dashes away without bothering to exchange insurance information, or even check on the medical status of people in the other vehicle, it can be both maddening and dangerous.  So what should you do following this type of event?

 

Think Fast after an Accident — Call 911

Greenville SC auto wreck injury claim attorney

If you’ve been involved in a hit and run collision and don’t know what to do, call Greenville Car Accident Attorney Dan Pruitt.

For starters, call 911. Then assimilate whatever information you can about the other driver.  Make a mental note about as many details as you can about the accident, including:

  • The make and model of the other vehicle;
  • The gender and general appearance of the driver;
  • Details of the accident itself;
  • The direction the other vehicle headed in its escape;
  • The contact information of any witnesses to the events.

If possible, take pictures that could help in identifying the other driver or reconstructing the accident.  Keep a copy of the police report with the investigating officer’s name and badge number in case you remember any details later.  Law enforcement will likely attempt to locate surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses in order to locate the missing driver.  Meanwhile, you may want to contact a local attorney to help you proceed.

 

Hit and Runs are a Serious Problem Nationwide

Hit and run incidents are on the rise across the country.  Incredibly, there were over 2,000 hit and run fatalities in 2016 alone. And that is just a fraction of the total number of cases involving just property damage or personal injuries.

 

SC Car Insurance

Your collision insurance will cover the property costs associated with the accident, after the deductible.  Injuries will be addressed by your personal injury policy.

In South Carolina, another option is available:  uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Purchasing this type of policy (insurers are required to offer it) with higher levels of reimbursement can be a godsend in the event of a serious hit and run accident.  South Carolina law Section 38-77-170 allows drivers to file a claim to sue John Doe in a hit and run situation to recover damages for property damage and/or personal injuries.  However, this option is available to you only under very exacting circumstances:

  • You reported the accident quickly after it happened;
  • Property damage and injuries occurred as a result of a physical crash, and were seen by another witness who is willing to sign an affidavit stating the facts of the case;
  • You’ve made a reasonable attempt to identify the other motorist.

 

Recovery from SC Auto Accidents

Following this horrendous type of accident, you may feel bewildered and disappointed in humanity. But you are not alone.  At Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm, our experienced legal team will fight to achieve the best possible outcomes for you after a hit and run accident.  Contact us for a free, confidential consultation in Greenville today.

Auto-Pedestrian Crashes

When Claudia McGilvery crossed Main Street in Easley, she could not have imagined that those steps would be her last. Sadly, she was hit by a car and died shortly afterward. This is one of many auto-pedestrian accidents that has brought heartache to families across the country. In 2015 alone, nearly 130,000 pedestrians were sent to emergency rooms, and over 5,000 pedestrians lost their lives in auto collisions. That’s more than one death every two hours. In South Carolina, roughly 100 such fatalities occur annually.

 

Facts Worth Knowing about Pedestrian Accidents in South Carolina

A number of environmental factors impact pedestrian safety throughout the country. This is what studies tell us about pedestrian fatalities:

  • Nearly three-fourths occur in urban locations;
  • Roughly 70 percent occur outside of intersections;
  • Almost 75 percent occur in darkness;
  • The average age of individuals is 46;
  • Five percent are youth aged 14 or younger;
  • Nearly 20 percent are elderly individuals over age 64; and
  • Almost 70 percent are males.

 

Impaired Drivers and Risks to Pedestrians

Unfortunately, approximately half of the fatalities involved in auto-pedestrian accidents were preventable. Studies indicate that nearly 50 percent of these incidents involved alcohol consumption by the vehicle driver (15 percent) and/or the pedestrian (34 percent).

 

Staying Safe on South Carolina Roads

Greenville, SC Car Accident Lawyer

Greenville, SC pedestrians run a greater risk of injuries during car accidents.

Experts provide a number of safety tips for pedestrians:

  • Use crosswalks and intersections when available;
  • Dress for visibility;
  • Avoid drugs or alcohol that might impair coordination, judgment, or agility;
  • Stay on the path or sidewalk when available; otherwise, face traffic and stay as far to the right of traffic as possible; and
  • Be particularly cautious at night.

Drivers, too, can take steps to avoid accidents involving pedestrians:

  • Keep an eye out for pedestrians all the time; children often dart out unexpectedly;
  • Never fail to make complete stops at stop signs and signals;
  • Do not pass stopped vehicles at crosswalks or flashing lights;
  • Never get behind the wheel if fatigued or impaired;
  • Follow posted speed limits; and
  • Use extra caution in neighborhoods and at night.

 

South Carolina Laws

Although pedestrians have a certain duty to be responsible, drivers are required to exercise due care in order to avoid crashing into pedestrians. Even if the individual is not in a crosswalk, drivers have a higher duty of caution because pedestrians are much more vulnerable in a collision. Drivers must always stay aware and keep their vehicles under control.

 

Calling a South Carolina Accident Lawyer Following a Collision

Any auto-pedestrian collision is a shock. Drivers are expected to stay at the scene and to assist in creating as safe a scenario as possible. 911 should be called, and appropriate law enforcement and medical personnel will make determinations as to next steps.

If the injuries or fatalities are the results of someone else’s negligence or recklessness, or if a driver leaves the scene without taking responsibility for the accident (hit and run), the aggressive and experienced legal team at Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm will investigate and work tirelessly in the quest for justice on your behalf. Contact us in Greenville for a free, confidential consultation today.

What you need to know about Workers’ Compensation Laws in South Carolina

Workplace injuries occur every day in South Carolina, and worker’s compensation is the safety net designed to provide the care and compensation necessary for injured workers. Understanding the guidelines and processes involved can be a bureaucratic nightmare, so working with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney is often a good idea.

 

Permanent Impairment Rating in South Carolina

workers comp attorney greenville sc

Dan Pruitt is a workers comp attorney in Greenville, SC.

An authorized physician must examine you to determine the level of impairment your injury has caused. The disability will then be evaluated to determine the degree to which it inhibits your ability to work. Beyond the injury itself, your education, experience, and other personal dynamics will be evaluated.

Notably, the determination of permanent disability is not based exclusively on medical factors. Rather, it is related to the ability of the individual to be gainfully employed. If that ability is limited or absent due to an impairment, and if it is unlikely to improve markedly in the future, it will be classified as a permanent disability. In fact, the rating of permanent disability is an administrative, not a medical determination.

On the other hand, physical impairment relates specifically to the functional or anatomical issues that may exist after an accident. If that impairment continues to limit functioning following rehabilitation, it is considered a permanent impairment.

In the event you experience something less than a total recovery, it is possible to receive compensation even though you may have returned to working full-time. Additionally, compensation may be awarded if you are disfigured, including if you experience keloid scarring or serious burns, or any scarring on your face, neck or head.

 

Total Permanent Disability in South Carolina

Individuals who experience brain damage, paraplegia, or quadriplegia are entitled to weekly benefits for life. Otherwise, those with total permanent disabilities are entitled to just nine and one-half years of compensation.

 

Appealing Decisions with the SC Court of Appeals

Except in rare cases, decisions made by a workers’ compensation commissioner may be appealed and be revisited by a panel. Such requests for an appeal must be filed within two weeks of the original decision, and include a $150 filing fee. Any appeals of the panel’s decision must then be filed with the Court of Appeals, which can then be appealed with the South Carolina Court of Appeals.  

Certainly, the appeals process can become quite cumbersome. The cascade of paperwork, investigation, and footwork necessary to secure a successful appeal can seem overwhelming.  But with the experienced and dedicated legal team of Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm on your side, you can rest assured that the deadlines and forms will be properly addressed, and your legal advocates will fight for the best possible outcomes. For a  free, confidential case evaluation, contact us in Greenville today.

Workers’ Compensation in South Carolina

Workplace injuries occur every day in South Carolina, and worker’s compensation is the safety net designed to provide the care and compensation necessary for injured workers. Understanding the guidelines and processes involved can be a bureaucratic nightmare, so working with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney is often a good idea.

 

Permanent Impairment Rating in South Carolina

workers compensation lawyer greenville sc

Dan Pruitt is a Greenville, SC Workers Compensation Attorney who can advocate for your compensation.

An authorized physician must examine you to determine the level of impairment your injury has caused. The disability will then be evaluated to determine the degree to which it inhibits your ability to work. Beyond the injury itself, your education, experience, and other personal dynamics will be evaluated.

Notably, the determination of permanent disability is not based exclusively on medical factors. Rather, it is related to the ability of the individual to be gainfully employed. If that ability is limited or absent due to an impairment, and if it is unlikely to improve markedly in the future, it will be classified as a permanent disability. In fact, the rating of permanent disability is an administrative, not a medical determination.

On the other hand, physical impairment relates specifically to the functional or anatomical issues that may exist after an accident. If that impairment continues to limit functioning following rehabilitation, it is considered a permanent impairment.

In the event you experience something less than a total recovery, it is possible to receive compensation even though you may have returned to working full-time. Additionally, compensation may be awarded if you are disfigured, including if you experience keloid scarring or serious burns, or any scarring on your face, neck or head.

 

Total Permanent Disability in South Carolina

Individuals who experience brain damage, paraplegia, or quadriplegia are entitled to weekly benefits for life. Otherwise, those with total permanent disabilities are entitled to just nine and one-half years of compensation.

 

Appealing Decisions in South Carolina

Except in rare cases, decisions made by a workers’ compensation commissioner may be appealed and be revisited by a panel. Such requests for an appeal must be filed within two weeks of the original decision, and include a $150 filing fee. Any appeals of the panel’s decision must then be filed with the Court of Appeals, which can then be appealed with the South Carolina Court of Appeals.  

Certainly, the appeals process can become quite cumbersome. The cascade of paperwork, investigation, and footwork necessary to secure a successful appeal can seem overwhelming.  But with the experienced and dedicated legal team of Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm on your side, you can rest assured that the deadlines and forms will be properly addressed, and your legal advocates will fight for the best possible outcomes. For a  free, confidential case evaluation, contact us in Greenville today.

What you need to know about Workers Compensation Laws in South Carolina

As a worker in South Carolina, Workers’ Compensation (WC) provides a safety net to address medical expenses and lost wages in the event you are injured on the job.  But strict rules and timelines impact your eligibility for thee benefits, so getting assistance from an experienced personal injury attorney to guide you through the process may be advisable.

 

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Dan Pruitt is a Greenville, SC Workers Compensation Attorney who can advocate for your compensation.

Types of Injuries at Work in Greenville, SC

Workplace injuries may be impacted by many factors, such as long-term exposure to toxins, repetitive motions, emotional stress, or single incidents.  Examples include:

  • Firemen breathing in smoke and getting lung cancer;
  • Secretaries developing carpal tunnel syndrome after years of typing;
  • A traumatic event causing serious psychological damage to a police officer;
  • Falling from a ladder and sustaining a back injury.

 

Occupational Diseases in Greenville, SC

Certain hazards are associated with particular occupations or duties, and treatment is covered by Workers’ Compensation.  There are many examples of conditions directly connected to exposure to hazardous materials, including:

  • Pulmonary disease
  • Cancer
  • Respiratory illnesses
  • Skin problems
  • Gastrointestinal diseases
  • Reproductive issues

 

Reporting Injuries and Filing a Workers Compensation Claim

It is essential that you report the incident to your employer as soon as possible after sustaining or being diagnosed with a workplace injury or illness.  This is critical, because if you allow 90 days to pass after a diagnosis without notifying your employer, you may become ineligible for benefits.

 

File a Workers Compensation Claim

If your employer doesn’t report the incident, workers may do so themselves using one of two forms provided by Workers’ Compensation.  Do this as quickly as possible, and not more than two years following an accident or illness.

 

Medical Care

Workers’ Compensation will pay for medical care required to lessen or eliminate your disability. This may include:

  • Surgery expenses;
  • Physical therapy
  • Hospital stays;
  • Medical equipment;
  • Prescriptions;
  • Prosthetics;
  • Travel expenses related to medical care;
  • Psychological care.

 

Wage Benefits

If your illness or injury interferes with your ability to work, you may be eligible for compensation at a rate of 66 2/3 percent of your typical earnings over the previous four quarters, up to a predetermined maximum amount of nearly $840.00 per week.  Eligibility for these payments occurs following a seven-day waiting period, and will then be made directly to you.

 

Light Duty

In some cases, individuals are capable of returning to work with certain limitations.  Workers must accept these light duty assignments, and are eligible for financial remuneration if such positions provide lower earnings than previously earned.

 

Your Greenville, SC Workers Compensation Claim

It is important to recognize that workers’ compensation is a huge system, and individuals frequently find the system to be unwieldy and convoluted.  That is why the experienced legal team at Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm takes such pride in efficiently and effectively addressing your concerns with workers’ compensation.  Whether you are just initiating the relationship with WC, or have been buried by paperwork related to your case over time, let us help.  Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.

Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm
300 Pettigru Street, Suite 100
Greenville, SC 29601
(864) 280-7660