If you’ve been injured at work in Rock Hill, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. However, too many injured employees don’t file these types of claims because they believe one or more of the many misconceptions surrounding them. Below are the five most common misconceptions about workers’ compensation claims in Rock Hill and the truth behind them.
You Only Need to Know About Workers’ Compensation When You Get Hurt
Too many employees think the only time they need to learn about workers’ compensation is if they are hurt in an accident at work. That is not true, however. When a company hires you, they will likely give you paperwork concerning your right to workers’ compensation. This often comes in the form of an employee handbook. It’s important you read through this and understand what your rights are before ever becoming injured. It will help you take the right action quickly, so you don’t hurt your claim.
If You Were at Fault, You Cannot Claim Workers’ Compensation
Many people think that workers’ compensation claims are like car accident claims. You have to go through insurance to claim compensation and, if you were at fault for the accident, are barred from receiving benefits. However, workers’ compensation doesn’t work that way. It is a no-fault system, meaning negligence does not need to be determined. As long as you were hurt at work performing duties in the scope of your employment, and your employer has more than four employees, you are entitled to compensation.
Workers’ Compensation Only Provides for Lost Income
Workers’ compensation does largely cover your lost income if your injury prevents you from working. However, it can also help cover costs of doctor’s appointments, medication, and when necessary, provide compensation for permanent disability or disfigurement.
You Should Always Accept the Insurance Company’s Settlement Offer
The insurance company your employer has chosen will work like other insurance companies. They will try to keep their profits, which many times means reducing your claim. An insurer will likely offer you a small amount, hoping you’ll be happy to receive anything at all and jump at the offer. Unfortunately, this is exactly what many injured workers do.
It’s important to know though, that the insurance company’s first offer is rarely their best one, or even a fair one. If you accept it, you could forfeit compensation you desperately need. An attorney can advise on a fair settlement offer, and even communicate with the insurance company to make them aware that you’ve hired legal representation, and that they will be held accountable.
You Don’t Need a Rock Hill Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Perhaps the biggest misconception when filing a worker’s compensation claim is that you don’t need a Rock Hill workers compensation lawyer. The chances are, you do. The workers’ compensation system in Rock Hill is extremely complex. One small mistake could bar you from receiving any compensation at all. At Elrod Pope Law Firm, we want to ensure that doesn’t happen. Call us at (803) 599-3080 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation to learn how we can help with your workers’ compensation claim.
