Workers’ compensation provides South Carolina employees with medical coverage and wage-replacement benefits after a workplace injury. However, securing these payments can sometimes be challenging, especially if your employer or its insurance company accuses you of fraud. Getting legal help is essential to protect your rights to benefits.
Talk to a workers’ compensation lawyer from Land Parker Welch LLC. Our law firm can defend you from unfair fraud accusations and fight for the money you deserve for your injuries.
What is Workers’ Compensation Fraud?
Workers’ compensation fraud occurs when an employee falsifies an injury claim to take advantage of no-fault benefits guaranteed under state law. It also happens when employees exaggerate their injuries or continue to receive payments after their injuries have healed.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been Accused of Workers’ Compensation Fraud?
If you’re suspected of committing fraud, speak with an attorney immediately. Applying for workers’ compensation is a document-heavy process, and there are many places where employees can make mistakes that appear fraudulent but were unintentional.
An attorney can defend you against fraud allegations, build a claim proving your eligibility to collect benefits, and communicate with the insurance company to resolve your case.
In the meantime, protect yourself by staying off social media or discussing your injuries online.
Types of Workers’ Compensation Fraud
Common types of workers’ compensation fraud include:
- Embellishing the severity of an injury
- Filing a claim for an injury or illness that is not work-related
- Claiming more lost income than you earn
- Claiming medical costs you did not pay out of pocket
What Are South Carolina’s Laws for Workers’ Comp Fraud?
Your workers’ compensation claim will be denied if the insurance company or your employer believes you have committed fraud. You may also face penalties under South Carolina law, including paying fines to the state’s Insurance Fraud Division.
First-time offenders may face fines of up to $5,000, second-time offenders could pay between $5,000 and $10,000, and a third offense could result in penalties of $10,000 to $15,000. So, allegations of insurance fraud may prevent you from accessing the benefits you need and cause you to owe money on top of the cost of your injury. It can also jeopardize your relationship with your employer.
How Can a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Protect Me?
Land Parker Welch LLC provides aggressive legal support for workers across South Carolina. We help our clients pursue the maximum benefits possible for their workers’ compensation claims. If you are accused of fraud, we will defend you and work tirelessly to get the money you need to heal. Call or contact us online today for a free consultation.
