Post traumatic stress disorder can affect workers who have experienced a traumatic event at work. This mental health condition can cause flashbacks, anxiety, and other symptoms that impact an employee's ability to return to job duties. While physical injuries from a workplace accident are often clear, mental health injuries like PTSD can be harder to diagnose but just as serious. Workers suffering from psychological injuries after extraordinary stress deserve proper medical treatment.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Coverage for PTSD
Under South Carolina workers’ compensation laws, workers’ compensation coverage can include therapy for mental health conditions if they are linked to a work-related injury or traumatic events on the job. This means workers’ comp covers not only physical injury but also serious mental health conditions such as traumatic stress disorder PTSD, provided there is medical evidence connecting the condition to the workplace accident. Police officers and other workers facing extraordinary stress at work often bring PTSD claims under these protections.
Requirements for a Successful PTSD Claim
A workers’ compensation claim for PTSD typically needs proof that the mental injury was caused directly by a work related incident. This could be a serious injury from a work accident or repeated exposure to traumatic events. In South Carolina, a mental injury caused without a physical injury may still be covered by workers’ compensation if the event was unusual and extreme. Workers’ comp claims for mental health issues should be supported by reports from a mental health specialist and other medical evidence.
Examples of Work Related PTSD
Work related PTSD can occur after workplace accidents involving severe physical injuries, witnessing co-workers get hurt, or experiencing acute stress disorder following violent incidents. Police officers may develop PTSD from repeated exposure to traumatic events. Other employees might suffer mental stress after a serious injury on a job site. In each case, mental health treatment can be a necessary part of recovery.
Benefits Available for PTSD Sufferers
When a PTSD claim is approved, injured workers may receive workers’ compensation benefits for therapy sessions, medication, and other medical costs. Workers’ comp benefits can also cover lost wages if the mental health condition prevents you from working. Workers’ compensation insurance may pay for ongoing treatment to help manage symptoms and improve the employee's ability to return to work duties safely.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Filing a workers’ comp claim for PTSD can be more challenging than claims for physical injuries. An experienced workers’ comp lawyer can help you collect evidence, work with medical providers, and guide you through filing procedures. Legal representation increases your chances of a successful claim by ensuring all requirements are met and that your mental injury is recognized as covered by workers’ compensation.
Speak With Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC
If you or a loved one has developed PTSD after a workplace accident, Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC can help you get workers’ comp benefits for necessary medical treatment. Our team understands how to handle PTSD claims under South Carolina workers’ compensation laws and will fight for your right to receive benefits. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Morris Law Accident Injury Lawyers
Address: 1335 44th Ave North Unit 101,Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Phone: (843) 232-0944
FAQ
Is PTSD covered by workers’ compensation in South Carolina?
Yes, PTSD can be covered by workers’ compensation if it is linked to a work related injury or extraordinary traumatic event at work.
What proof do I need for a PTSD claim?
You will need medical evidence from a mental health specialist showing the condition is a result of a work related incident.
Can I get workers’ comp benefits for PTSD without a physical injury?
In South Carolina, it is possible if the traumatic event was unusual and severe enough to cause serious mental injury.
What kind of treatment is covered for PTSD sufferers?
Workers’ compensation benefits can include therapy, medication, and other medical costs necessary to treat post traumatic stress disorder.
Should I hire a workers’ comp lawyer for a PTSD claim?
Yes, a workers’ comp attorney can help navigate filing procedures, deal with the insurance company, and improve your chances of a successful claim.
