Hilton Head Workers' Compensation Lawyers Fighting for Injured Workers
Legal Help for Workplace Injuries in the Hospitality, Construction, and Service Industries
Thousands of people work hard every day to keep Hilton Head Island running — in hotel kitchens and on construction sites, maintaining vacation properties, landscaping resort grounds, and staffing the businesses that serve millions of visitors each year.
When one of those workers gets hurt on the job, the workers' compensation system is supposed to be there for them. But claims are frequently delayed, disputed, or denied. Twenge + Twombley Law Firm represents injured workers throughout Hilton Head Island and Beaufort County.
We understand the financial pressure a workplace injury creates. Our attorneys guide injured workers through every stage of the process and fight back when the system isn't working the way it should.
FAQs About Workers' Compensation in Hilton Head
- Who is covered by workers' compensation in South Carolina?
- What should I do if I'm injured at work in Hilton Head?
- What injuries and illnesses are covered?
- What benefits can I receive through South Carolina workers' compensation?
- Can I be fired for filing a workers' comp claim?
- What if my employer says my injury isn't covered?
- Can I choose my own doctor after a workplace injury?
- What happens if I reach maximum medical improvement but still can't return to work?
- Can I sue my employer for a workplace injury?
- How much does it cost to hire a Hilton Head workers' compensation attorney?
Who Is Covered by Workers' Compensation in South Carolina?
Most employees in South Carolina are covered by workers' compensation if their employer has four or more employees. Coverage applies regardless of how long you've worked there, whether you're full-time or part-time, and regardless of immigration status.
+ Contact Us TodayWorkers classified as independent contractors are generally not covered, but that classification is sometimes applied incorrectly. If you've been told you're a contractor but work under supervision and use employer-provided equipment, you may actually be an employee entitled to workers' comp. We can evaluate your situation.
What Should I Do If I'm Injured at Work in Hilton Head?
- Report the injury to your employer or supervisor as soon as possible. South Carolina law requires reporting within 90 days, but the sooner the better.
- Seek medical care through your employer's authorized provider. Following that process protects your benefits.
- Document everything, exactly how the injury happened, what symptoms you're experiencing, and the names of any witnesses.
- Keep copies of all medical records, correspondence, and documents related to your claim.
- Contact a workers' compensation attorney before giving any recorded statement to the insurance adjuster.
What Injuries and Illnesses Are Covered?
Workers' compensation covers injuries and illnesses that arise out of and in the course of employment, including:
- Sudden traumatic injuries, falls, lacerations, crush injuries, burns, and equipment accidents
- Repetitive stress injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, back injuries from repetitive lifting
- Occupational illnesses caused by workplace chemical exposure, heat, or other environmental factors
Pre-existing conditions don't automatically disqualify you. If your work aggravated a pre-existing condition, you may still be entitled to benefits.
What Benefits Can I Receive Through South Carolina Workers' Compensation?
- Medical benefits: All reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your workplace injury.
- Temporary total disability (TTD): Approximately two-thirds of your average weekly wage while you cannot work at all, up to the state maximum.
- Temporary partial disability (TPD): A partial wage replacement if you return to work at reduced pay.
- Permanent partial disability (PPD): A scheduled benefit under South Carolina law if your injury causes a lasting impairment.
- Death benefits: Weekly benefits and burial expense reimbursement for surviving dependents if a worker dies from a job-related injury.
Can I Be Fired for Filing a Workers' Comp Claim?
No. South Carolina law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for filing a workers' compensation claim. Retaliation can include termination, demotion, reduction in hours, or other adverse employment actions.
If you believe your employer retaliated against you, contact us immediately. You may be entitled to remedies beyond the workers' comp claim itself.
+ Contact Us TodayWhat If My Employer Says My Injury Isn't Covered?
Employers and insurance carriers deny claims for many reasons, some legitimate, many not. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal through the South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission.
Our attorneys handle these appeals regularly. We gather medical evidence, obtain expert opinions, and represent you at Commission hearings. A denial is not the end of the road. Contact us to discuss your situation.
Can I Choose My Own Doctor After a Workplace Injury?
In most cases, your employer or their insurance carrier has the right to select your treating physician. Seeing an unauthorized provider first can jeopardize your benefits.
However, if the authorized physician is providing inadequate care or releasing you prematurely, there are procedures for requesting a change of physician or a second opinion. We can walk you through those options.
What Happens If I Reach Maximum Medical Improvement but Still Can't Return to Work?
Maximum medical improvement (MMI) is the point at which your condition has stabilized and is unlikely to improve further with treatment. Once MMI is reached, your case shifts to a permanent disability evaluation.
If you cannot return to your previous job or any suitable employment, you may be entitled to permanent total disability benefits. Having experienced legal representation at this stage is critical to making sure your permanent disability is assessed fairly.
+ Contact Us TodayCan I Sue My Employer for a Workplace Injury?
Generally, no. Workers' compensation is the exclusive remedy against your employer in South Carolina. In exchange for guaranteed benefits, you give up the right to sue your employer for negligence.
However, if a third party, a defective equipment manufacturer, a subcontractor, or a negligent driver, contributed to your injury, you may have a separate personal injury claim against them. A third-party claim can include pain and suffering and other financial compensation (called damages) that is not available through workers' comp.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Hilton Head Workers' Compensation Attorney?
We handle workers' compensation cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing up front. Our fee is a percentage of the benefits we recover for you. If we don't win, you don't owe us anything.
Get the Workers' Compensation Benefits You're Owed
Workplace injuries are stressful enough without fighting the insurance system alone. If you were hurt on the job in Hilton Head or anywhere in Beaufort County, contact Twenge + Twombley today. Your consultation is free, and there's no obligation.
Twenge + Twombley. Rare name. Remarkable service. Real results.