Working from home has become a norm, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic where many employees had to move from a traditional office to working from home. It has turned out to be a practical solution to ensure business continuity and meet the changing work-life balance needs of employees. However, this shift has raised one central question that is often asked by those who work from home: can remote workers receive workers' compensation if they’re injured on the job in South Carolina?
In this blog post, we will delve into the details of whether remote workers in South Carolina are eligible for workers' compensation. We will look at the criteria that qualifies remote workers for such compensation, what is covered by workers' compensation, what to do in case of an injury, and other essential considerations.
Are Remote Workers Eligible for Workers’ Compensation in South Carolina?
The short answer to whether remote employees in South Carolina can receive workers' compensation benefits is yes, they can. A remote worker is an employee who works from a location other than their employer's office or job site. The South Carolina Workers' Compensation Act covers employees who work at home and provides insurance to workers to receive benefits when they get injured while on the job.
However, to receive compensation as a remote worker, you must meet the same requirements as an employee who works on-site. First, you must be an employee and not an independent contractor. Second, your injury must have occurred while doing work-related duties. Lastly, you must prove your injury's connection to your job and show that the injury was not because of your own fault or a pre-existing condition.
What Types of Workers’ Comp Benefits Can Remote Employees Collect?
A remote worker, like an on-site employee, is entitled to different benefits, including medical expenses, lost wages, vocational rehabilitation, and even future lost wages. Suppose the injury causes permanent disability. In that case, the South Carolina Workers' Compensation Act permits additional compensation for the long-term effects of the injury, such as compensation for loss of earning capacity and disfigurement.
What Steps Do Remote Workers Need to Follow to Collect Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
After an injury, it is crucial to follow the correct steps. As a remote worker, you should notify your employer immediately. Your employer will review your request, and if accepted, provide details of the medical provider you should visit for treatment. Make sure to attend all medical appointments and treatments and keep detailed records of all communications and documentation.
It is essential to mention that it is not always easy to prove a work-related injury for remote workers, and this is where seeking legal advice is essential. Having a qualified workers' compensation lawyer in South Carolina can improve your chances of getting the benefits you deserve, especially if your employer's insurance company disputes your claim.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Workers’ Comp Attorneys in South Carolina
For nearly 25 years, Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC has been offering injured employees in South Carolina assistance with workers' compensation claims. Our workers’ comp lawyers can carry the burden of securing workers’ compensation benefits for you so that you can concentrate on recovering from your injury.
To learn more about Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC, review our case results.
Call Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC at (843) 968-0886 or connect with us online today for a free consultation with our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys.