You’ve been hurt on the job, and you need your worker’s comp benefits to keep you and your family going. But how long do the benefits last?
If you've been injured at work in Spartanburg, South Carolina, you may be wondering how long you can receive workers' compensation benefits. The workers' compensation system can be complex, but having the right information can help you protect your rights. At the Law Office of Tyler Rody, our team of experienced workers’ comp lawyers is here to help.
In South Carolina, workers' compensation benefits are designed to provide medical treatment and wage replacement for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. The duration of workers' compensation benefits hinges on several factors, primarily the severity of the injury and the expected timeline for recovery.
Benefits typically begin one week after the injury occurs or when the employee becomes aware of the work-related illness and files a claim. They continue until the worker reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI), which is the point where further medical treatment is unlikely to result in significant improvement in the condition.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Employees unable to work at all due to their injury or illness may receive temporary total disability benefits. These benefits typically continue until the worker is able to return to work or reaches MMI. For instance, if a construction worker suffers a serious back injury from a fall at a job site, they may receive TTD benefits while undergoing physical therapy and recovering from surgery.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): Workers who can perform some work but not their usual job duties may qualify for temporary partial disability benefits. These benefits cover the wage loss difference between their pre-injury earnings and their reduced earning capacity due to the injury. For example, if a delivery driver injures their shoulder and can only perform light-duty tasks for a limited time, they may receive TPD benefits until they fully recover or transition back to their regular job.
Permanent Disability: In cases where injuries result in permanent impairment or disability, workers may be eligible for permanent disability benefits. These benefits provide ongoing financial support based on the degree of impairment and its impact on the worker’s ability to earn a living. For instance, a factory worker who loses a limb in a workplace accident may receive permanent disability benefits to compensate for the long-term impact on their earning potential.
It's important to note that there are strict time limits for filing a workers' compensation claim in South Carolina. In most cases, you must report your injury to your employer within 90 days of the accident or onset of the illness. Failure to meet this deadline could result in a denial of your claim. That's why it's essential to seek legal advice as soon as possible after a workplace injury to ensure your rights are protected.
A skilled Spartanburg workers' comp lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence to support your claim and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Having legal representation can increase your chances of receiving the full compensation you deserve.
At the Law Office of Tyler Rody, our team has a proven track record of helping injured workers in Spartanburg navigate the workers' compensation process. If you're unsure how long you can receive workers' compensation benefits or have questions about your eligibility, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized attention to each client and ensuring you have the information you need to make informed decisions about your case.
Get your claim started today. Contact the Law Office of Tyler Rody to schedule a consultation with a skilled Spartanburg workers' comp lawyer. Let us help you through the workers' compensation system and get you the benefits you deserve. Don't wait to protect your rights – reach out to us now to get started.