Comprehensive Guide to Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Charleston, SC
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Charleston
If you’ve been injured at work in Charleston, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, or surrounding Lowcountry communities, you may be wondering how to navigate South Carolina’s workers’ compensation system. At McDougall Law Firm, our experienced Charleston workers’ compensation lawyers understand the physical, financial, and emotional toll a workplace injury can cause.
Whether you’re a longshoreman at the Port of Charleston, a construction worker in downtown Charleston, a healthcare provider at MUSC or Roper Hospital, or a distribution employee in North Charleston, our South Carolina workers’ comp attorneys are here to fight for the benefits you deserve.
We proudly represent injured workers across Charleston County and the Lowcountry.
Why Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Essential in Charleston
Charleston has a thriving economy driven by maritime, construction, healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality industries—all of which carry a high risk of workplace accidents.
Workers’ compensation provides critical financial protection for employees by covering medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. With the help of a Charleston workers’ compensation lawyer, you can ensure you receive the maximum benefits available under South Carolina law.
Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation in South Carolina
Most Charleston employees are covered by workers’ compensation if they work for an employer with four or more employees. To qualify, you must:
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Report your injury to your employer within 90 days.
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File a claim with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission within two years.
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Prove your injury or illness occurred during the course of employment.
Our South Carolina workers’ comp attorneys can guide you through the filing process to help avoid costly mistakes or delays.
Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Medical Benefits
Workers’ comp covers medical treatment at Charleston facilities such as:
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Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)
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Roper St. Francis Healthcare
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Trident Medical Center
This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and rehabilitation.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
Provides two-thirds of your average weekly wage if your injury prevents you from working at all.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)
Pays partial benefits if you can return to light-duty work but earn less than before your injury.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
Compensation for long-term or permanent impairments.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Training for a new career if your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job.
Death Benefits
Financial support for dependents in the event of a fatal workplace accident.
Medical Benefits for Work Injuries in Charleston
If you’re hurt at work in Charleston, workers’ compensation ensures that your medical care is covered. For example, a construction worker injured downtown or a longshoreman injured on the docks can receive treatment at MUSC or Roper without worrying about medical bills.
Covered care includes:
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Emergency room visits
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Surgery
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Rehabilitation and therapy
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Prescription medications
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Medical equipment
Our Charleston workers’ compensation lawyers work to ensure you have access to the right doctors and treatment providers.
How Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits Work in Charleston
If your injury keeps you completely out of work, TTD benefits provide two-thirds of your average weekly wage until you recover or reach maximum medical improvement.
Example: A warehouse worker in North Charleston with a serious back injury may qualify for TTD while recovering.
What Are Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) Benefits?
TPD benefits help injured workers who can return to work in a limited capacity but earn less than before.
Example: A nurse at Roper Hospital restricted to light-duty administrative tasks may qualify for TPD benefits to cover lost wages.
TPD is especially important in Charleston’s construction, healthcare, and hospitality industries, where employees often face temporary work restrictions after an injury.
Why Choose McDougall Law Firm for Your Charleston Workers’ Compensation Case?
The workers’ compensation system can be confusing and overwhelming, especially when you’re focused on recovery. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts—but you don’t have to face them alone.
At McDougall Law Firm, our dedicated Charleston workers’ compensation attorneys fight for injured workers across the Lowcountry. We help you file your claim correctly, appeal denials, and maximize your benefits.
Call McDougall Law Firm today at 843-438-4386 for a free consultation with an experienced Charleston workers’ compensation lawyer.
Who Qualifies for Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits in Charleston, SC?
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits compensate injured workers for lasting impairments that reduce their ability to earn a living.
For example, if a construction worker on a Charleston job site or a longshoreman at the Port of Charleston suffers permanent hand, knee, or back injuries, PPD benefits provide financial support for the long-term loss of work capacity.
In South Carolina, PPD is calculated based on the severity of the injury and its impact on your ability to work. This benefit is an important safety net for employees in Charleston’s physically demanding industries such as construction, maritime, healthcare, and manufacturing.
What Is Vocational Rehabilitation and How Can It Help Injured Workers in Charleston?
Vocational rehabilitation benefits are designed for employees who can no longer return to their old jobs because of a work-related injury. These benefits may include:
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Career retraining
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Educational programs
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Job placement assistance
For instance, a Charleston construction worker who can no longer perform heavy lifting might be retrained for administrative or technical roles. Similarly, a healthcare worker at MUSC or Roper Hospital who develops permanent restrictions could be retrained for non-clinical positions.
In Charleston and across the Lowcountry, vocational rehabilitation ensures that injured employees remain financially independent while learning new skills for safe and sustainable employment.
How Do Death Benefits Work for Families in Charleston?
If a worker tragically dies from a job-related injury, workers’ compensation death benefits provide financial support to their dependents. This includes funeral expenses and ongoing weekly payments to a surviving spouse or children.
For example, a fatal accident at the Port of Charleston, a North Charleston warehouse, or a downtown construction site could trigger these benefits. Families in Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and surrounding areas can rely on death benefits to cover both immediate costs and long-term financial needs.
Why Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Essential for Charleston Employees
Charleston’s economy relies heavily on industries such as maritime, construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and healthcare—all of which pose high risks of workplace injuries. Workers’ compensation benefits, including medical care, wage replacement, rehabilitation, and vocational retraining, allow injured employees to recover without the added burden of financial instability.
Whether your injury is temporary, partial, or permanent, understanding your workers’ compensation rights is essential to protecting your health, income, and future.
Common Challenges in Workers’ Compensation Claims
In Charleston, workers’ compensation claims are often denied or delayed due to:
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Late reporting of the injury
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Insufficient medical documentation
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Disputes over disability ratings
These issues frequently arise in high-risk industries such as construction, maritime, and healthcare. Having an experienced Charleston workers’ compensation lawyer on your side can help you avoid these pitfalls and fight back against unfair denials.
Why McDougall Law Firm Is Trusted — Real Credentials, Real Results
Meet the Lawyer
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J. Olin “Lin” McDougall, II has been practicing law since 1996, with a focus on serious injury & death claims, workers’ compensation, medical malpractice, product liability, and more.
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He graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Law and is admitted to practice in South Carolina, federal courts in South Carolina, the Fourth Circuit, and the U.S. Supreme Court.
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Over the years, the firm has built a reputation for aggressive, strategic litigation and personalized client service.
Sample Verdicts & Settlements
McDougall Law Firm has recovered significant compensation for clients in a variety of cases. Here are some of their recent wins:
| Case Type | Amount Recovered |
|---|---|
| Confidential Settlement | $2,500,000+ |
| Manufacturing Defect – Surgical Cart | $1,500,000 |
| Sexual Assault Case | $1,500,000 |
| Auto Accident Case | $1,250,000 |
| Trucking Accident for Deceased Plaintiff | ~$1,158,812+ |
| Medical Malpractice | $1,000,000+ |
Note: Past results are not a guarantee of future outcomes, but they do reflect the firm’s capability in securing large recoveries.
What Clients Say — Real Testimonials
“My experience with this Law Firm has been nothing short of an A+. They were very informative with every step of the case … I not only recommend them, but I’d also use them again.” – C.M.
“I do appreciate the great services that you provided for me when every other lawyer I spoke with was afraid. Lin McDougall took my case on head on and I’m very satisfied with the outcome … they treated me like family.” – J.B.
“Mr. McDougall and the entire staff go above and beyond for their clients. Definitely want them in your corner for difficult cases!” – C.V.
“McDougall Law Firm’s professional service and thoughtful staff helped me through a hard time and really came through for me and my family.” – S.W.
Get the Legal Help You Need Today
If you’ve been injured at work in Charleston, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, or anywhere in the Lowcountry, don’t try to navigate the workers’ compensation process alone.
At McDougall Law Firm, our experienced South Carolina workers’ comp attorneys offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and secure the benefits you deserve.
Call McDougall Law Firm today at 843-438-4386 to speak with a Charleston workers’ compensation lawyer.
Workers’ Compensation FAQ – South Carolina (Charleston & Lowcountry)
What benefits are available through workers’ compensation in South Carolina?
South Carolina workers’ compensation provides injured employees with several key benefits, including:
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Medical care (doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, therapy, prescriptions, and medical equipment)
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Wage replacement for lost income while recovering
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Temporary and permanent disability benefits
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Vocational rehabilitation for retraining if you cannot return to your prior job
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Death benefits for eligible dependents
Medical treatment must be provided through an employer-approved physician or facility, which may include hospitals like MUSC, Roper St. Francis Healthcare, or Trident Medical Center in Charleston.
How much does Temporary Total Disability (TTD) pay in South Carolina?
TTD benefits pay two-thirds of your average weekly wage (AWW) if you are unable to work due to a job-related injury. Payments continue until:
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You reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), or
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You are released to return to work.
South Carolina law caps the maximum weekly benefit, but it is adjusted annually. A Charleston workers’ compensation lawyer can help you calculate your benefits and ensure you’re receiving the correct amount.
How are Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits determined in South Carolina?
PPD benefits apply when an injury causes a lasting impairment that reduces your ability to work. A doctor assigns a disability rating based on the severity of your permanent condition.
Compensation is then calculated according to South Carolina’s statutory schedule of injuries and your average weekly wage. Payments are typically made weekly over a defined period.
Can I choose my own doctor for workers’ compensation treatment in South Carolina?
No. In South Carolina, your employer (or their insurance carrier) has the right to choose your treating physician. However, if you are dissatisfied with the care provided, your South Carolina workers’ comp attorney can request a change of physician or appeal to the Workers’ Compensation Commission.
What should I do if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?
Denials are common and may occur due to:
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Delayed reporting of the injury
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Lack of sufficient medical documentation
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Disputes over whether the injury was work-related
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal before the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. Working with an experienced Charleston workers’ compensation lawyer significantly improves your chances of success.
Are repetitive stress injuries covered under South Carolina workers’ compensation?
Yes. Occupational diseases and cumulative trauma injuries are covered if you can prove they are directly related to your job duties. Examples include:
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Carpal tunnel syndrome
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Tendinitis
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Chronic back injuries
Strong medical evidence and expert testimony are often required for approval.
How long can I receive workers’ compensation benefits in South Carolina?
The duration depends on the type of benefit:
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TTD: Until you recover or reach MMI
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TPD: While working at reduced wages or hours
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PPD: Paid according to your disability rating and South Carolina’s injury schedule
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Vocational rehabilitation: Provided as long as retraining is necessary for job placement
Can my employer retaliate against me for filing a workers’ compensation claim?
No. South Carolina law prohibits retaliation against employees who file a workers’ compensation claim. This includes termination, demotion, reduced hours, or harassment. If your employer retaliates, a Charleston workers’ compensation attorney can help you take legal action.
What if I can’t return to my previous job due to a work injury?
You may qualify for vocational rehabilitation, which provides:
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Job retraining
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Educational programs
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Career counseling
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Job placement assistance
For example, a construction worker in Charleston who can no longer perform heavy labor may be retrained for an administrative or technical role.
Call McDougall Law Firm today at 843-438-4386 for a free consultation with an experienced Charleston workers’ compensation lawyer. We’ll help you fight for the benefits you deserve.
Workers’ Compensation Resources
| Topic | What You’ll Learn | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| What To Do If Your Employer Denied Your Workers’ Comp Claim | Learn the common reasons your claim may be denied, your rights in that situation, how to review the denial letter, and the appeals process in South Carolina. | Helps protect your rights early — knowing what to do can mean the difference between getting benefits or being stuck without support. |
| Disability Benefits & Workers’ Compensation | Explains the difference between temporary and permanent disabilities, what benefits might apply, how impairment is determined, and how state laws affect what you receive. | Clarifies a lot of confusion around “what type of disability benefit am I eligible for?” — very useful if you’re recovering but still dealing with ongoing limitations. |
| Third-Party Liability in Workers’ Compensation Cases | Covers when someone besides your employer (like a contractor, manufacturer, or property owner) can be held liable, what extra compensation may be possible, and what legal hurdles exist. | Important for maximizing compensation — sometimes workers’ comp isn’t enough to cover all your damages, so knowing your third-party options can make a big difference. |
| Workers’ Compensation Benefits: What You Need to Know After a Work Injury | Provides a full overview of the benefits you may be entitled to following a work injury — medical care, wage replacement, disability, etc. Also describes qualifying thresholds and what to expect. | Gives you a roadmap so you aren’t surprised by process steps or delays. Helps you understand what to ask for and what documentation you’ll need. |
Secure the Workers’ Compensation Benefits You Deserve in South Carolina
If you’ve suffered a work-related injury in Charleston, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, or anywhere in South Carolina, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights.
At McDougall Law Firm, our dedicated team of experienced Charleston workers’ compensation lawyers will fight to ensure you receive the full range of benefits you’re entitled to—including medical care, wage replacement, temporary or permanent disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and death benefits for dependents.
With decades of experience handling South Carolina workers’ comp claims, we know the challenges injured employees face, including insurance disputes, denied claims, and disagreements over disability ratings. Our team is committed to guiding you through every step of the process.
Free Consultation — Start Your Recovery Today
Call McDougall Law Firm today or complete our online consultation form to schedule your free, no-obligation case review.
Our team will:
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Evaluate your workers’ compensation claim based on your injury and work restrictions.
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Explain your rights under the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act.
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Help you navigate employer-approved medical treatment, disability benefits, and appeals.
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Fight to secure maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs.
Don’t face a workers’ compensation claim alone. Let McDougall Law Firm’s Charleston workers’ compensation attorneys fight for your recovery, your rights, and the financial security you and your family deserve.
