Your Plain-English Roadmap to SC Workers’ Compensation

Understanding Evidence, Treatment, Wages, and Timelines.

From hospitality and retail to construction and healthcare, injuries on the Grand Strand can derail your income and your health.

This plain-English guide explains what to do after a work injury in Myrtle Beach—and how South Carolina workers’ compensation actually works.

1) Report the injury ASAP (in writing if you can)

Tell a supervisor immediately and note the date, time, and how it happened. South Carolina generally gives you 90 days to report to your employer and two years to file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Commission—waiting risks your benefits.

2) Ask for an authorized doctor

In South Carolina, your employer (or its insurer) chooses the treating physician for workers’ comp. If you go to an unauthorized provider (outside of emergencies), the bill may not be covered. After ER care, don’t assume follow-up is approved—confirm authorization.wcc.sc.gov

Tip: If treatment stalls or you’re rushed back too soon, ask about a second opinion or an IME (independent medical evaluation).

3) Get emergency care first—then notify

Always prioritize emergency treatment. Once you’re stable, notify your employer and request directions to the authorized doctor. Keep every discharge sheet and prescription.

4) Document everything

• Photos of the scene/equipment
• Names of witnesses and who you told
• Every appointment, work note, and restriction
• Mileage and receipts (travel to medical care >5 miles each way and specific pharmacy trips are reimbursable)

5) Understand wage checks (TTD/TPD)

If you’re entirely written out of work (TTD) or can only work reduced hours (TPD), weekly checks are typically 66⅔% % of your Average Weekly Wage (AWW), subject to a state cap.

There’s a 7-day waiting period; if you’re out 14+ days, that first week becomes payable retroactively.

The South Carolina Safeguard, a program designed to protect injured workers, can provide additional support. For more information, visit wcc.sc.gov.

Example: If your AWW is $900, your compensation rate is about $600/week (before the statewide maximum is applied). The Commission publishes the maximum rate annually.

6) Light-duty offers—don’t guess

If the authorized doctor releases you to light duty, speak with a workers’ comp lawyer before refusing; declining suitable work can affect your checks.

7) Follow medical restrictions (and keep a symptoms journal)

Work within the doctor’s limits. Track pain levels, sleep issues, missed work, and activities you can’t do—this helps prove how the injury affects your life and future earning capacity.

8) Social media: less is more

Insurers review posts. Photos and comments can be taken out of context. Keep your recovery private until the case is resolved.

9) Third-party claims may add value

If a negligent driver, subcontractor, or defective equipment caused your injury, you may have a personal injury claim in addition to workers’ comp. Request an evaluation to ensure all sources of recovery are preserved.

10) Retaliation is illegal

You can’t be fired or punished because you filed a legitimate workers’ comp claim. If schedules change, write-ups appear, or you’re threatened after reporting an injury, document it and get advice.

Download Our Workers’ Comp Checklist

• Report the injury right away (ideally in writing)
• Ask for an authorized doctor; confirm follow-ups are approved.
• Photograph the scene/equipment; collect witness names.
• Keep mileage/receipts for medical travel (generally >5 miles each way).
• Follow work restrictions; discuss light-duty offers before refusing.
• Track symptoms, missed work, and expenses.
• Know the basics: ~66⅔% wage checks, 7-day wait, back-pay after 14 days (caps apply)
• If pressured or punished for filing, document it and 843-448-HELP (4357) or use this contact form to email us.

Why local help matters

Myrtle Beach claims often involve resort and hospitality employers, seasonal schedules, and multiple insurers.

A local team that knows the Commission’s procedures and area medical providers can move your case faster, protect your medical access, and maximize your recovery.

Talk to a Myrtle Beach Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Injured at work? Get clear next steps before you sign forms or return to work against restrictions. Free consultation. No fee unless we win.

Call 843-448-HELP (4357) or send a message through our contact page to start your free case review today.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Deadlines and benefits vary by case; speak with an attorney about your specific situation.