A spinal injury is devastating. Damage to the spine affects the body’s core support and nerve system. For workers in Columbia and across South Carolina, it often means months or longer away from work. Even when the initial injury seems manageable, the long-term consequences can be life-altering — chronic pain, limited mobility, neurological issues, and, in more severe cases, permanent disability.
An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can make a difference. Spinal injury claims are often complex and disputed, and the steps you take can shape your financial and medical recovery. At Lee Injury Law, LLC, we can help you understand your options and guide you through an often confusing and frustrating process. Injuries can ruin a life, but with dedicated legal help, you can recover. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7.
Understanding Spinal Injuries in the Workplace
Unfortunately, spinal cord and back injuries are common in South Carolina workplaces, including manufacturing plants, construction sites, healthcare facilities, warehouses and distribution centers, trucking and transportation jobs, farms, and restaurants or hotels.
Common causes include the following:
- Falls from ladders, scaffolds, or slippery surfaces.
- High-impact vehicle collisions.
- Repetitive heavy lifting or awkward lifts that damage discs over time.
- Crushing or jolt injuries from machinery or equipment.
- Sudden trauma (being struck, workplace violence) that injures the spine or cord.
Types of Spinal Injuries
Spinal injuries in the workplace can range from moderate back problems to catastrophic, life-changing conditions, such as:
- Fractures that destabilize the spine.
- Herniated discs that press on nerves and cause chronic pain.
- Spinal cord trauma that can lead to paralysis or loss of function.
- Sprains and strains from overexertion or heavy lifting
- Nerve damage resulting in weakness, numbness, or radiating pain
- Degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis often worsened by repetitive stress or poor ergonomics
Victims may live with chronic pain, reduced mobility, or permanent disability that limits their ability to work or enjoy daily activities. Some require lifelong medical care and rehabilitation. Even less severe conditions can result in recurring flare-ups, ongoing treatment costs, and emotional distress.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Spinal Injuries
If your injury occurred while performing your job duties, you may be eligible for a work-related spinal injury claim, that can cover:
Medical Treatment and Rehabilitation
Doctor visits, hospitalizations, imaging, surgery, physical therapy, medications, mobility aids, and modifications to your home or vehicle. In South Carolina, workers’ compensation also generally covers the cost of rehabilitation services needed to help you recover and regain function.
Wage Replacement
Partial wage replacement while you are unable to work. Typically, you can receive about two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to a state-set maximum. These benefits may continue for weeks, months, or even longer, depending on the severity of your injury and your doctor’s evaluation. In cases of permanent disability, additional long-term benefits may also be available.
Permanent Disability Benefits
In South Carolina, you may qualify for permanent disability benefits if your doctor determines you have a long-term impairment. This can be partial disability, such as being restricted from heavy lifting or certain types of work, or total disability, meaning you cannot return to the workforce. The type and amount of benefits you receive will depend on the extent of your medical restrictions and how they affect your ability to earn a living.
South Carolina law recognizes that injuries to the spine can have a profound impact on your ability to work and earn a living. For that reason, spinal injury benefits can be higher and longer-lasting than for many other injuries, but this also makes them a target for insurance company pushback.
Settlement Considerations for Spinal Injury Claims
Many spinal injury claims lead to settlement negotiations. However, a settlement is not just a check; it is a legal agreement that closes out some or all of your rights under the system. Before agreeing to a spinal injury settlement in South Carolina, consider the following:
Future Medical Treatment
Spinal injuries often require repeat surgeries, pain management, or long-term rehab. Settling without securing coverage can leave you paying out of pocket later.
Ability to Work Again
Can you realistically return to your former job? To any employment? Settlements should account for permanent loss of earning capacity – if applicable.
Lump-Sum vs. Ongoing Benefits
In South Carolina, a lump-sum settlement (especially a full clincher agreement) typically ends your ability to pursue further medical and wage benefits from that claim. However, not all lump sums do; there are versions of settlements (like indemnity-only or Form 16A) that preserve some medical or disability benefits.
By contrast, receiving ongoing weekly checks provides a steady income, but these benefits can sometimes be reduced, challenged, or ended if the insurance company believes your condition has improved. This is why careful negotiation and skilled legal representation are critical.
Why You Need a Workers’ Comp Lawyer for Spinal Injury Cases
The workers’ compensation system in South Carolina is designed to provide benefits to injured workers while they recover. Ideally, you would apply and get the financial support you need. However, that is not always the case. Insurance companies have every incentive to downplay your condition, deny costly treatments, or offer low settlements to minimize payouts.
Having counsel ensures that:
- Your spinal injury is properly and thoroughly documented, so your claim reflects your real condition.
- Ensuring disability ratings and benefits truly match your limitations.
- Handling negotiations and reviewing settlements to protect your future medical care and income.
At Lee Injury Law, LLC, we represent workers in Columbia, the Midlands, and across South Carolina facing workplace injuries that threaten their ability to earn a living. Our role is to make sure the benefits you receive align with the true impact of your injury.
Schedule a Free Consultation at Lee Injury Law, LLC
Spinal injury workers’ comp claims are not routine. They determine whether you will have access to surgery, therapy, and financial support for years to come. Before signing anything, talk to Lee Injury Law, LLC, today. Our hardworking, attentive team is here to lead you through every step, with no upfront costs, to help get you the compensation you deserve.
Schedule a free consultation today. No fee unless we win.
