Columbia Workers Compensation Lawyer

Common Workplace Injuries That Qualify for Workers’ Compensation

Workplace injuries vary depending on the industry, but some injuries are more common than others. Employees in physically demanding jobs — such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare — face higher risks, but even office workers can suffer work-related injuries.

Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Slipping on wet floors, tripping over hazards, or falling from heights can result in broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal damage. Falls from ladders, scaffolding, or loading docks are particularly dangerous and can lead to long-term disabilities.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Tasks that require repetitive movements — such as typing, lifting, or using tools — can cause conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and chronic joint pain. These injuries often develop over time and require ongoing medical treatment.

Machinery Accidents

Factory and construction workers who use heavy machinery face serious risks. Crushed limbs, amputations, and lacerations can occur if equipment malfunctions or safety protocols are ignored.

Exposure to Harmful Substances

Workers exposed to toxic chemicals, asbestos, or dangerous fumes may develop respiratory illnesses, skin conditions, or long-term occupational diseases such as mesothelioma.

Vehicle-Related Accidents

Truck drivers, delivery workers, and employees who drive as part of their job are at risk of motor vehicle accidents while on duty. If an accident occurs while performing work-related duties, the worker should be eligible for benefits.

Workplace Violence

Assaults and violent incidents at work — whether from customers, coworkers, or other sources — can result in physical injuries and emotional trauma, both of which may qualify for compensation.

What Benefits Are Available Through Workers’ Compensation?

South Carolina’s workers’ compensation system provides several types of benefits to injured employees. These benefits are designed to help workers recover physically, financially, and professionally after a job-related injury.

Medical Benefits

Workers’ compensation should cover all necessary medical treatment related to your injury. This includes doctor visits, surgeries, hospital stays, prescription medications, physical therapy, and medical equipment such as wheelchairs or prosthetics. However, your employer’s insurance company may require you to see an approved provider.

Temporary Disability Benefits

If your injury prevents you from working while you recover, you may receive temporary disability benefits. These payments typically amount to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to the state’s maximum limit.

Permanent Disability Benefits

If your injury results in a permanent impairment — such as loss of function in a limb, a disabling back injury, or a loss of vision — you may be entitled to additional compensation. The amount is based on the severity of your disability and how it impacts your ability to work.

Vocational Rehabilitation

If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, workers’ compensation may provide vocational training or assistance finding new employment.

Death Benefits

If a workplace accident results in a fatality, the worker’s surviving family members may be entitled to death benefits. These typically include financial support for funeral expenses and lost income.

What to Do If Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied

Many workers’ compensation claims are denied for a variety of reasons, leaving injured employees feeling frustrated and uncertain about their next steps. However, a denial is not the end of the road — you have the right to challenge the decision and fight for the benefits you deserve. Acting quickly and strategically can improve your chances of a successful appeal.

Understand the Reason for Denial

When a claim is denied, the insurance company is required to provide a reason. Common reasons for denials include disputes over whether the injury was work-related, claims that the worker failed to report the injury on time, or arguments that the injury was pre-existing or not severe enough to qualify. In some cases, claims are denied due to a lack of sufficient medical evidence. Understanding the exact reason for the denial is the first step toward building a strong appeal.

File an Appeal

If your claim is denied, you can request a hearing with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. The appeals process requires submitting legal documents, gathering medical evidence, and presenting a strong case before a judge. This step often involves additional medical evaluations, witness statements, and expert testimony to prove that the injury is work-related and that benefits should be granted. Missing deadlines or failing to provide proper documentation can hurt your appeal, so it is essential to stay organized and act quickly.

Get Legal Help

Appealing a denied workers’ compensation claim can be a complex legal battle. Insurance companies have teams of attorneys working to minimize payouts, so having a workers’ compensation lawyer fighting for you is crucial. An attorney can gather the necessary evidence, handle negotiations, and represent you at hearings to improve your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve. Having legal representation can also help prevent common mistakes that could delay or weaken your case. If your claim has been denied, seeking legal help as soon as possible can make a significant difference in securing the financial support you need.

How Long Do You Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

South Carolina law sets strict deadlines for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Generally, injured workers must report their injury to their employer within 90 days and file a formal claim within two years of the accident. If you miss these deadlines, you may lose your right to benefits.

Additionally, waiting too long to file can make it harder to gather evidence, secure witness statements, and prove that your injury was work-related. Consulting an attorney as soon as possible ensures that your claim is filed on time and that you receive the maximum benefits available.

Why Choose Lanier Law Group?

At Lanier Law Group, we understand the challenges injured workers face when seeking benefits. The workers’ compensation system is designed to protect employees, but too often, insurance companies and employers make it difficult for workers to get the financial support they need. Insurers frequently deny claims, minimize payouts, or delay compensation to avoid paying fair benefits. Our firm is committed to standing up for injured workers in Columbia and throughout South Carolina, ensuring they receive the benefits they are entitled to under the law.

Aggressive Legal Representation

Employers and insurers do not always play fair when handling workers’ compensation claims. They may dispute the severity of an injury, argue that it was not work-related, or pressure employees to return to work before they have fully healed. We push back against these tactics, using strong legal arguments, medical evidence, and expert testimony to build a compelling case.

Personalized Client Advocacy

Every injured worker has a unique situation, and we believe in providing individualized attention to every case. We take the time to understand your specific needs, listen to your concerns, and develop a legal strategy tailored to your circumstances. Throughout the process, we keep you informed, answer your questions, and ensure you never feel like just another case number. Our goal is to provide compassionate guidance while fighting tirelessly on your behalf.

No Fees Unless We Win

We understand that a workplace injury can create serious financial strain, which is why we handle workers’ compensation cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover benefits for you. This allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about legal fees. At Lanier Law Group, we are dedicated to making sure injured workers have access to strong legal representation, no matter their financial situation.

Injured at Work in Columbia? Take the First Step Toward Justice

If you have been injured on the job in Columbia, you should not have to fight for workers’ compensation benefits alone. The insurance companies may try to dodge responsibility, but at Lanier Law Group, we fight back. We’re in your corner, ready to go the distance to get you the benefits you deserve.

Call 919-342-1368 or reach out to us online for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing and moving forward with your life.