Myrtle Beach’s hospitality and tourism industry employs thousands of workers who keep the area’s hotels, restaurants, resorts, and attractions running smoothly. From housekeeping staff and maintenance workers to front desk personnel and food service employees, these dedicated professionals face unique workplace hazards that can lead to serious injuries.
When workplace accidents occur, South Carolina’s workers’ compensation system can provide essential protection for injured hospitality workers. However, some employers and their insurers resist paying hospitality workers what they deserve for their workplace injuries and occupational illnesses.
At Jebaily Law Firm, we understand the challenges faced by Myrtle Beach’s injured workers who require workers’ compensation in the hospitality industry. We are ready to help you pursue the benefits you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation with a Myrtle Beach workers’ compensation attorney at our law firm.
Reasons Why You Need Our Attorneys for Workers’ Comp Claims in the Hospitality Sector
The hospitality industry presents unique challenges for workers’ compensation claims. Many hospitality workers face employer retaliation, misclassification as independent contractors or disputes over their seasonal employment status or part-time work arrangements. Some employers and insurance companies attempt to minimize payouts to workers in the hospitality industry, believing that many employees are hesitant to report workplace injuries.
Our attorneys are ready to stand up to employers and insurance companies who try to take advantage of hospitality workers. With over 100 years of combined legal experience and offices in Florence, Myrtle Beach, and North Myrtle Beach, our dedicated workers’ compensation attorneys have recovered significant benefits for injured workers. We want to put our experience to work for you now.
Let us protect you and your rights throughout the claims process. As one former client, Antonio wrote:
“Jebaily Law is full of caring and dedicated professionals who are eager to make sure their clients have the best possible experience.”
Do Myrtle Beach Hospitality Workers Qualify for Workers’ Comp During the Tourist Season?
Hospitality workers in Myrtle Beach are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits irrespective of whether they work full-time, part-time, or seasonally. South Carolina law requires most employers with four or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance, and this protection extends to:
- Full-time hotel and restaurant employees
- Part-time workers during peak tourist season
- Seasonal employees hired for the summer months
- Temporary workers assigned through staffing agencies
However, some employers may try to avoid their responsibilities by misclassifying workers as independent contractors rather than employees. If you receive a 1099 tax form instead of a W-2, but your employer controls your work schedule, provides your tools and equipment, or directs how you perform your job, you may be an employee entitled to workers’ compensation coverage.
What to Do to Seek Maximum Compensation After a Work Injury at a Hotel or Other Hospitality Job
Taking the proper steps immediately after a workplace injury can optimize your ability to receive full compensation. Here is what you should do:
- Seek immediate medical attention. Even if your injury seems minor, see a doctor right away. Some injuries, back strains, and head injuries, for example, may not show symptoms immediately.
- Report the incident promptly. While South Carolina law gives you 90 days to report a workplace injury, it is best to notify your supervisor or manager as soon as possible.
- Follow prescribed treatments. Attend all medical appointments with your employer’s approved doctor and follow their treatment recommendations.
- Keep detailed records. Save all medical records, receipts, and correspondence regarding your injury and treatment.
- Avoid giving recorded statements. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to provide a recorded statement that could be used against you later.
- Contact our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys before accepting any settlement offers or signing documents that could limit your rights to future benefits.
What Are the Most Common Injuries for Hospitality and Tourism Workers?
Hospitality workers face numerous hazards that can lead to serious workplace injuries, including examples such as:
- Slip-and-fall accidents – Wet floors from spills, mopping, or weather conditions can create dangerous surfaces. Fall accidents often result in broken bones, head injuries, or back problems.
- Lifting and overexertion injuries – Housekeeping staff regularly lift heavy mattresses, laundry bags, and cleaning equipment. Kitchen workers move large food containers and equipment. Such repetitive motions can cause hernias, back injuries, and muscle strains.
- Burns and cuts – Kitchen workers deal with hot surfaces, boiling liquids, and sharp knives. Maintenance staff may encounter hot water systems or electrical hazards.
- Chemical exposure – Cleaning staff work with strong chemicals that can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, or chemical burns.
- Repetitive stress injuries – Desk clerks, housekeepers, and kitchen staff often develop carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or other conditions from repetitive motions.
- Violence from guests – Hospitality workers sometimes face assault or harassment from intoxicated or aggressive customers.
When Can a Hospitality Worker Sue a Third Party for a Workplace Injury in Myrtle Beach?
While workers’ compensation typically prevents employees from suing their employers for workplace injuries, you may be able to file a separate personal injury lawsuit against non-employer third parties who contributed to your injury. Common third-party claims in the hospitality industry include:
- Product liability cases – If defective equipment, such as a malfunctioning elevator or faulty cleaning equipment, caused your injury, you may be able to sue the manufacturer.
- Premises liability claims – If you sustained injuries while working at a location not owned by your employer, you might have a claim against the property owner.
- Motor vehicle accidents – If you were injured in a car accident while making deliveries or traveling between work sites, you may be able to sue the at-fault driver.
These third-party lawsuits can provide additional benefits beyond what workers’ compensation covers, including full lost wages and money for pain and suffering.
How Our Workplace Accident Lawyers Help Injured Hospitality Workers
Jebaily Law Firm provides comprehensive legal representation for injured hospitality workers. Our attorneys can:
- Investigate your accident thoroughly to identify all potential sources of compensation
- Handle all communications with insurance companies and employers
- Help you receive proper medical treatment from qualified doctors
- Fight denials or delays in benefit payments
- Negotiate fair settlement agreements when appropriate
- Represent you in hearings before the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission
- Pursue third-party claims when applicable
We understand that hospitality workers often fear retaliation for filing workers’ compensation claims. Our firm is prepared to protect you from any illegal retribution and ensure your employer follows all applicable laws.
Contact Our Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Myrtle Beach
Suppose you have sustained injuries while working in Myrtle Beach’s hospitality industry. In that case, the experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Jebaily Law Firm are ready to fight with determination and passion to protect your rights and seek the benefits you deserve. Since 1969, we have been committed to serving injured workers with dignity and respect.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you need to recover from your workplace injury.
