What Steps Should You Take After a Work-Related Injury?
Dealing with a work-related injury can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process, here are the steps to follow:
- Seek Medical Attention. Get the necessary medical treatment for your injury as soon as possible. This will not only prevent your injury from getting worse, but it will also provide documentation of your injury, which is crucial for a successful workers’ compensation claim.
- Report the Injury. Inform your employer about the incident, preferably in writing. In South Carolina, you have 90 days to report your workplace injury or you won’t be eligible to collect any benefits.
- Employer Files a Claim. After you notify them of your injury, your employer should file a claim with their insurance carrier. If they refuse to do so, you can file a claim yourself with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission by submitting Form 50.
- Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.
Common Workplace Injuries in Greenville
Greenville’s thriving economy includes industries such as manufacturing, construction, and healthcare, and workers in these sectors often face a higher risk of injury.
Some common workplace injuries include:
- Falls from heights
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Overexertion
- Repetitive motion injuries
- Machinery accidents
- Vehicle accidents
- Exposure to harmful substances
Major Employers in Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville’s thriving economy is supported by a diverse range of industries, attracting numerous businesses and workers to the area.
Below are some of the city’s major employers contributing to Greenville’s growth and prosperity:
- Greenville Health System (Prisma Health). As the largest private, non-profit healthcare provider in the region, Prisma Health offers comprehensive healthcare services to the community and serves as a major employer for healthcare professionals.
- Michelin North America. Headquartered in Greenville, Michelin North America is a leading tire manufacturer employing a considerable workforce of more than 1,400 employees from 30 different countries in its manufacturing and research facilities.
- General Electric (GE). With a significant presence in the area, GE is involved in manufacturing and engineering operations, providing jobs for skilled workers in these sectors.
- BMW Manufacturing Co. Located just outside Greenville in nearby Spartanburg County, BMW Manufacturing Co. is an important contributor to the local economy, employing more than 11,000 workers at their 8 million-square-foot production facility.
- Fluor Corporation. As a global engineering and construction company, Fluor Corporation offers numerous job opportunities in project management, engineering, and related fields.
- Bon Secours St. Francis Health System. As another key player in the healthcare sector, Bon Secours St. Francis Health System provides jobs for medical professionals and support staff in the region with their 2 Greenville-area hospitals.
- SYNNEX Corporation. This Fortune 200 company in Greenville specializes in business process services and technology distribution, employing workers in a variety of roles.
With such a diverse range of industries and job opportunities in Greenville, it’s crucial to ensure that workers are protected and supported in the event of a workplace injury.
Our work accident attorneys can provide invaluable assistance to employees navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation claims, ensuring they receive the benefits they deserve.
South Carolina Workplace Injury Statistics
While specific local data is limited, we can draw insights from statewide statistics and news stories to better comprehend the impact of job-related injuries on employees in the Greenville area.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were approximately 30,300 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported in South Carolina in 2021. This equates to a rate of 2.2 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers. South Carolina was one of only 12 states that year that had an injury rate significantly less than the national rate of 2.7.
Despite this relatively good news, there were also 107 work-related deaths in South Carolina in 2021 alone. About 46% of these deaths resulted from transportation-related accidents.
Other common causes of fatal work incidents included:
- Violence and other injuries by people or animals
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Exposure to harmful substances and chemicals
These injuries and deaths can occur in various industries, and employees in Greenville face similar risks while on the job.
Recent News on Workplace Injuries in Greenville
In recent years, there have been several notable incidents involving workplace injuries in the Greenville area. These cases emphasize the need for workers’ compensation insurance and the assistance of a skilled workers’ compensation attorney to help navigate the legal process.
Some of these incidents include:
- A plastic recycling plant in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, was fined nearly $34,000 for workplace safety violations relating to an employee’s suspected death. The citation comes several months after an employee, Duncan Alexander Burrell Gordon, went missing while working the night shift at Industrial Recovery and Recycling, Inc. in Greer. Authorities believe that he fell into an industrial shredder used to recycle industrial plastic waste for manufacturers.
- A missing person investigation was launched, and the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office and Coroner’s Office investigated the possibility of an industrial accident. Months later, human remains were discovered on the conveyor belt leading from the shredder, and DNA testing confirmed that they belonged to Burrell-Gordon. His father, Michael Gordon, is pursuing legal action.
- In January 2023, a lift carrying 2 construction workers made contact with a high-voltage power line while working outside the District West Apartments on Westfield Street in Greenville. According to police, when the lift caught fire, one of the workers was able to jump onto a nearby balcony, while the other was rendered unconscious inside the lift but was later rescued and taken to the hospital. Both workers survived, but this incident highlights the inherent risks involved in construction work.
These examples demonstrate that workplace injuries can happen in various industries and underscore the importance of seeking the help of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in Greenville, South Carolina. They can help protect your rights and ensure you receive maximum benefits and compensation after a work-related injury.
Were You Injured on the Job?
If you or a loved one has suffered a work-related injury in Greenville due to employer negligence, lack of training, or an unsafe workplace, you deserve compassionate and effective legal representation.
At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our workers’ compensation attorneys understand the emotional and financial toll that a job injury can take on you and your family.
That’s why we fight relentlessly to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on your feet.
FAQs About Work Accidents & Injuries
What Should I Do If My Employer Denies My Workers’ Compensation Claim?
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, it’s vital to act promptly. Begin by reviewing the denial letter carefully to understand the reasons cited by your employer or their insurance company. Common reasons for denial include failure to report the injury on time, discrepancies between your report and medical records, or the contention that the injury is not work-related. After clarifying these reasons, gather any additional documentation that might support your claim, such as medical records or eyewitness accounts. Engaging with a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney can provide critical insights and representation throughout the appeal process. They can guide you on how to file a claim with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission and prepare for any necessary hearings to ensure your rights are advocated for effectively.
How Are Work-Related Injuries Documented?
Documenting a work-related injury involves several key steps to ensure the injury is accurately reported for compensation purposes. Initially, you should seek immediate medical attention, wherein a healthcare provider will document your diagnosis, treatment plan, and any prescribed medications or disability status. Concurrently, it’s important to report the incident to your employer, preferably in writing, within the timeframe stipulated by South Carolina law. Maintain personal copies of all correspondence and files related to your injury. Additionally, journal your symptoms, the impact of the injury on your daily activities, and any interactions with your employer or insurance representatives. Keeping thorough and organized documentation can aid in substantiating your claim and streamline the process should any disputes arise.
What Are My Rights Under South Carolina Workers' Compensation Law?
In South Carolina, the Workers’ Compensation Law affords several rights to employees who experience work-related injuries. You are entitled to medical treatment paid for by your employer or their insurance, including doctor’s visits, hospitalization, surgery, and prescription medications. Moreover, if you are temporarily unable to work due to your injury, you have the right to receive temporary total disability benefits. For injuries resulting in permanent impairment, benefits for permanent disability may be available. Notably, you have the right to appeal a denial of benefits and will be protected against retaliation from your employer for filing a claim. Understanding these rights empowers you to advocate effectively for yourself and secure the benefits to which you are entitled.
How Can a Work Injury Lawyer Assist Me?
A work injury lawyer plays a crucial role in navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation claims. Their expertise can help you gather necessary documentation, meet critical deadlines, and negotiate settlements. An attorney can appraise fair compensation, considering medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering. Should your claim reach an impasse, they can represent you at hearings before the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. When disputes arise with employers or insurers, they can facilitate mediation to find amicable solutions. Consulting with a lawyer not only ensures your claim is accurately presented but also enhances confidence that your rights are being defended throughout the process.
What Are Common Challenges in Pursuing a Work Injury Claim?
Pursuing a work injury claim presents challenges, often complicated by legal, medical, and procedural nuances. One common hurdle is the timely reporting of the injury, as delays can jeopardize the validity of a claim. Another frequent issue is establishing that the injury is work-related, particularly in cases of repetitive stress injuries or those occurring gradually. Discrepancies between medical reports and injury claims can lead to disputes with employers or insurance providers. Navigating these challenges requires a strong understanding of relevant laws and access to medical documentation and expert testimony. Having experienced Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC attorneys by your side can alleviate these challenges, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the claim and enhancing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
