If you’ve been hurt at work in South Carolina, the workers’ comp process can feel confusing. After the injury, your medical bills, lost wages, and pain may feel like too much to handle. So when you finally get a settlement offer, it might seem like a relief. But here’s something important to know. That first offer may not be your best option. Many times, the first settlement is made quickly to close the case and save money for the insurance company. That doesn’t always help you. Before you agree to anything, it’s good to understand what the settlement really means for your future.
Why the First Offer May Be Too Low
Insurance companies work fast after a claim is filed. They might send an offer before your doctor even knows how long your injury will last. They may base that offer on what they hope the case will cost them—not what you truly need. Some people accept that first check and then later find out they need surgery or more time off work. But once a settlement is signed, you can’t go back. That’s why the amount needs to cover not only what’s happened so far, but also what might happen later.
You Have a Right to Know What You’re Owed
South Carolina law gives you the right to workers’ compensation if you were injured doing your job. That includes medical care, lost wages, and sometimes payment for permanent injuries. But figuring out what your claim is worth takes time. It depends on your job, your pay, the type of injury, and how it will affect your ability to work. A quick offer doesn’t always take all that into account. You deserve to know what the law says you’re owed. And you deserve time to understand your choices.
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How Injuries Are Rated in South Carolina
In workers’ comp cases, doctors may give you a rating called an “impairment rating” or “disability rating.” This helps decide how much you should get in a settlement. But that rating might not be accurate if it’s too soon. Sometimes doctors change the rating later, or find new damage that wasn’t clear at first. You shouldn’t settle until all of that is known. If you accept a settlement early, you might lose the right to more treatment or payment later on.
What Happens After You Settle
When you accept a workers’ comp settlement in South Carolina, most of the time that means your case is closed. You may not be able to go back for more money even if you need more care. That’s why the timing of the settlement matters so much. Some settlements are called “clincher agreements,” and they usually mean you are giving up your right to future medical care. That’s a big decision. You should know exactly what you’re giving up before you say yes.
You Have the Right to Say No
Just because you get an offer doesn’t mean you have to accept it. You can ask questions. You can ask for more. You can also ask for time to think. South Carolina law gives you the right to take your case to a hearing if you think the offer isn’t fair. And even if you’ve already started talking about settlement, you can still change your mind—until the papers are signed and the agreement is approved by the Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Everyone there was very professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. My car was totaled, and I was a little intimidated talking with a couple of other lawyers in Greenville. But with Christian and Christian, not only did they answer my questions, but they did so in a way that made what could have been a hectic situation, easy. Overall, an excellent experience with high quality lawyers who truly go above and beyond and really try to get you the results or answers you need.
—Rob Young
I met Josh like 4 years ago when my Son was injured at Daycare. He was very concerned about the well being of my Child and Me. Very Understanding Professional and Just a great Staff. If You need a Lawyer that’s all about YOU this is the Place. I just closed a Case on 6/23/2021 from a injury on a Property. They handled everything because no one else would help Me. I’m forever grateful for Your hard Work and Time. Once again Thank You Josh and Sally.
—Rezillai Henderson
My husband was referred to this law firm from another lawyer after his mother passed away while residing in a nursing home. Matt took on his case and we are pleased with how everything turned out. It took a long, long time to finally settle, but it was worth the wait. The staff here is friendly and I’d be happy to recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance.
— Jen
I was referred to Harold by a family friend, and I couldn’t be happier. He took the time to listen to my case, answered all my questions and truly treated me like a friend not a client. His knowledge of medical malpractice is priceless he actually successfully won, one of the first medical malpractice cases in Greenville County.
— Lindsey
How a Fair Settlement Gets Decided
A fair settlement should cover all of your medical bills, your lost income, and the cost of any long-term problems your injury may cause. That may include future surgeries, therapy, job training, or permanent disability pay. These are all things that take time to figure out. A rushed offer doesn’t always include them. Insurance companies don’t always tell you everything. Sometimes they leave things out. That’s why it’s so important to go through the details carefully.
The Risks of Accepting Too Soon
When people accept a low settlement, they often regret it later. They may find that they can’t go back to work, or that their pain never goes away. But once the case is settled, it’s often too late to get more help. That’s why you should wait until your doctor says you have reached “maximum medical improvement.” That means your condition is as good as it’s going to get. Only then can you truly understand how the injury will affect the rest of your life.
Don’t Let Pressure Make the Decision
It’s normal to feel pressure. Bills are piling up. You might not be able to work. The insurance company may call often, making it sound like this is your only chance. But you have time. You have the right to think it over. You have the right to talk to someone who can help you understand what’s fair. You don’t have to go through this alone. The first offer is just a starting point—not the finish line.
Every Case Is Different
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Your injury, your job, your family, and your future are unique. Some people may be ready to settle quickly. Others may need more time. The most important thing is making sure you know what your rights are. And making sure the settlement will truly protect you and your family—not just now, but in the years ahead.
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Accepting the first settlement offer in a South Carolina workers’ comp case might feel like the easy path. But it’s not always the right one. Taking time to understand what’s fair can make a big difference in your future. The decision you make now can affect your health, your job, and your money for years to come.
Verdicts & Settlements
If you were hurt at work and have received a settlement offer, we can help you review it. You don’t have to say yes right away. Talk to someone who understands the law and will stand beside you. At Christian & Christian Law, we can help you know what your case is really worth—and help you make the best choice for your future. Reach out to us today. Your next steps matter. Let’s take them together.