If you’ve been injured on the job, you might think you have plenty of time to report it—but in South Carolina, there are strict deadlines that can impact your ability to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Waiting too long could cost you your claim.
Under South Carolina law, you must report your injury to your employer within 90 days of the accident. That doesn’t mean you have 90 days to start paperwork—it means you must let your employer (or supervisor) know that you were injured and that the injury happened on the job.
However, waiting until day 89 is not a good idea. The sooner you report the injury, the better. Delays can raise red flags for insurance companies, and employers may argue that the injury didn’t really happen at work or wasn’t serious enough to warrant a claim.
Here’s what you should do immediately after a workplace injury:
Tell your supervisor right away—ideally the same day the injury happens
Follow your company’s internal reporting procedures (if they exist)
Ask to see a doctor, even if your injury seems minor at first
Get everything in writing, and keep a copy for your own records
If your injury developed over time—like repetitive stress injuries or job-related illnesses—you should report it as soon as you become aware of the problem and suspect it’s related to your job.
And remember, reporting the injury is only the first step. You typically have up to two years to officially file a workers’ comp claim, but that clock doesn’t start until your employer is notified—so timely reporting matters.
At Martin & Martin, P.A., we help injured workers avoid costly mistakes and navigate the process with confidence. If you’ve been hurt on the job and aren’t sure where to begin, call us today for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights and protect your claim from day one.