Have you been struggling with a persistent cough or shortness of breath? Do you find yourself wheezing while breathing and regularly feeling fatigued? You may think these are symptoms of a cold, but it could be more severe than that. If you work in a hazardous environment, such as the construction or manufacturing industry, you may have been exposed to dangerous chemicals and irritants. These harmful agents could lead to chronic illnesses from skin contact or inhalation. If your workplace is the source of your illness, hiring an occupational disease attorney like Matthew Breen can strengthen your workers’ compensation case. He’s helped countless clients in your situation by holding employers accountable and fighting for fair compensation.
Proving your illness stems from workplace exposure can be challenging, but Attorney Breen can guide you through the process, making it more straightforward and less stressful.
An Overview of Occupational Diseases in South Carolina
In South Carolina, an occupational disease is defined as a “health condition caused primarily or partly by exposure to harmful agents or conditions in the work environment.” People working in high-risk fields like firefighting, construction, manufacturing, mining, healthcare, cleaning, shipbuilding, and automotive repair are especially vulnerable to occupational diseases.
Several illnesses can arise from prolonged exposure to dangerous elements. While it is difficult to pinpoint the single most common occupational disease in South Carolina, common ones include:
- Respiratory issues such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asbestosis
- Hearing-related issues, including hearing loss
- Skin conditions like contact dermatitis
- Musculoskeletal disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
As of 2023, over 30,000 people in South Carolina reported nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in the private industry. While injuries accounted for the majority of cases, occupational illnesses are still a serious concern.
If you suffer from an occupational disease and need benefits and coverage, you’ll go through the workers’ compensation system. To qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, you must prove that your disease was a direct result of your work duties and not an ordinary disease of life, like the cold or flu. Contracting an illness from a coworker does not count as an occupational disease.
Occupational diseases can be difficult to prove. Unlike injuries, illnesses usually occur from prolonged exposure rather than from a single or sudden incident. Many occupational diseases have a latency period, so symptoms may not appear until months or years after initial exposure. This delay can make diagnosing and establishing a direct link challenging. Other factors like lifestyle choices and pre-existing conditions can muddy the diagnosis as well. Plus, some symptoms can mimic those of other ailments, making it even more difficult to pinpoint an exact cause. This is why you need an experienced and dedicated lawyer like Attorney Breen by your side.
Why You Need an Occupational Disease Attorney Like Matthew Breen
A committed and seasoned occupational disease attorney like Matthew Breen can guide you through the complex legal process and help you establish that your disease is directly linked to your workplace.
First, he will clarify whether your condition qualifies as an occupational disease under South Carolina law. Then, he will gather evidence to establish a causal link. Attorney Breen will collect and present medical records, expert opinions, and workplace exposure data to demonstrate this connection. As we mentioned, occupational diseases have a latency period, making it difficult to know when to file. South Carolina has a two-year statute of limitations from the date you become aware of the illness and its connection to work. Hiring Attorney Breen ensures your claim is filed within these critical deadlines.
When you are injured at work, you file a claim for benefits through the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. The claim is against your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy. Attorney Breen will be your representative, communicating with the insurance company and the assigned adjuster. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts or use your statements against you, so having a lawyer communicate on your behalf protects your interests.
Attorney Breen will handle denials, represent you at hearings, and negotiate fair settlements. If needed, he’ll also file appeals to keep your case moving forward. Above all, Attorney Breen is committed to securing your full benefits and standing up for you in any disputes!
Focus on Recovery While Attorney Breen Handles Your Case
Dealing with an illness caused by your job is stressful enough without the added pressure of a complicated legal process. As an experienced occupational disease attorney, Matthew Breen is here to lift that burden. He’ll handle every step of your claim, so you can concentrate on healing and regaining your strength.
Contact Attorney Breen for a free consultation and start your path toward justice and peace of mind.
