Who is responsible for paying workers' compensation?

The responsibility for paying workers' compensation falls on the employer. In South Carolina, like many other states, employers are required by law to provide workers' compensation insurance for their employees. This insurance is designed to cover medical costs and provide wage replacement for employees who are injured on the job or who become ill due to work-related conditions.

Employers either purchase workers' compensation insurance from a private insurance company or can self-insure if they meet certain criteria. The underlying principle is that the employer is accountable for the safety of the work environment and must ensure that adequate provisions are in place to care for employees who face injuries during their employment.

This is a critical aspect of labor law and employee protection, highlighting the employer's obligation to support their workforce. By establishing this responsibility, the law simplifies the process for injured employees, allowing them to receive benefits without having to prove fault on the part of the employer.