You have been hurt on the job and make a claim for workers’ compensation while you get back on your feet. You wonder what your case may be worth.

The answer, in short, depends on a number of things.

One factor involves how much money you were making at the time of your injury. The compensation rate for work-related injuries is calculated as two-thirds of your average weekly wage before taxes. This figure is based on your income for the year prior to when you got hurt.

This compensation rate is used for the weekly benefits paid while you are out of work and factored into the final settlement or final court decision for your workers’ compensation case.

Another factor is the body part that was injured on the job. Under South Carolina law, each body part is worth a specific number of weeks of compensation if that body part is deemed worthy of compensation. For example, an injury to the back is worth 300 weeks, the arm 220 weeks and 40 weeks for injury to the index finger.

The final and most important factor in determining how much your workers’ compensation case is worth involves the extent of your injuries. The true value of your case is determined by how much the work accident affects you and your life going forward.

Things such as your age, job duties, work experience and education may factor into your award, but the main basis for determining compensation will be the extent to which you have permanent disabilities stemming from the workplace accident.

During the course of your workers’ compensation case, it’s vital to follow all doctor’s orders and comply with all treatment recommendations.

It’s also very important to get help with your workers’ compensation case from a qualified lawyer. Your lawyer will work to get you the maximum benefits you are entitled to under the law.

About the Author

Ken Harrell joined Joye Law Firm in 1994, and has been the managing partner since 2006. With 30 years of experience, he protects the rights of injured South Carolinians, including cases involving workers’ compensation, car accidents, and defective products. Ken also leads the firm’s referral practice, helping to ensure that our clients receive the best possible representation. He is a past president of South Carolina Injured Workers’ Advocates, and has served as the co-chairman of this organization’s legislative affairs committee for 12 years.

Recent Blog Post
texting while driving
South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act Aims to Prevent Collisions

A new South Carolina law outlaws the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while driving. Taking effect on September 1st, 2025, the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act aims to raise awareness and decrease the number of accidents caused…

2026 Best Lawyers in America Joye Law Firm attorneys included for selection
Multiple Attorneys at Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers Included in The Best Lawyers in America

We are proud to share that 19 attorneys from Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers have been selected for inclusion in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch®. Additionally, the firm’s Managing Partner,…

Intersection Accidents and Injuries in South Carolina
How Our Attorneys Handle a Liberty Mutual Claim

After an accident, getting the insurance company to pay what’s fair can be more frustrating than the crash itself. That’s especially true when dealing with a Liberty Mutual claim. Liberty Mutual is one of the country’s largest auto insurance companies,…

A car crash on the street with visibly damaged vehicles.
How Our Attorneys Handle a Progressive Claim

Progressive is one of the largest auto insurers in the country, known for quick claim turnarounds. But that speed doesn’t always work in your favor. Their adjusters are trained to limit payouts and close files fast. If you’re dealing with…

Awards & Recognition
Media
ABC
NBC
Fox
CBS News
ESPN Radio logo