FAQs
After an accident occurs or an injury is suffered, you may feel lost and confused. Few people who have suffered an accident or incurred an injury have an extensive background in this area. Without this knowledge, they are left wondering how best to proceed in order to protect their legal rights. Fortunately, we are here to provide you with the answers that you are looking for. Check out our many frequently asked questions and their accompanying answers for more information.
What is an Independent Medical Examination (IME)?

What is asbestosis?
Asbestosis is a non-malignant, progressive lung disease caused by exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. Victims of asbestosis may have no symptoms for 20-30 years after exposure, but asbestosis causes permanent damage to the lungs and there is no cure or effective treatments. In advanced stages asbestosis victims require oxygen 24/7, and asbestosis can cause pulmonary hypertension, cardio pulmonary arrest and death.
What is Average Weekly Wage?
Average weekly wage is the injured workers' average gross wages for a week. Average weekly wage is based on the gross amount earned before taxes or deductions. It includes overtime, bonuses and any other benefits received. In South Carolina, the average weekly wage is calculated by taking the total amount you earned during the last fifty-two weeks and dividing this amount of money by the number of weeks you actually worked.
What is included with pain and suffering damages?
What is mesothelioma?
What is my employer required to pay if I am involved in a work accident?
1) Any and all medical expenses related to the injury;
2) Weekly disability benefits checks for all periods you are out of work with written doctor's authorization;
3) A lump sum payment for permanents disabilities and/or lost wages you incurred after your treatment has finished.
What is South Carolina’s Seat Belt law?

What is Supplemental Security Income and can a Social Security disability attorney in Charleston County, South Carolina help me determine if I’m eligible for SSI?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program that isn't funded by Social Security taxes but rather by general tax revenues. It is a federal income supplement program to help those with basic needs. Basic needs could include shelter, food and clothing.
SSI is also for the disabled, elderly and the blind when they have little or no income.
Eligibility for SSI can be determined by a Social Security disability attorney in Charleston County, South Carolina. However, you should know that SSA determines this based upon the Benefit Eligibility Screen Tool (BEST).
The BEST will take you through a number of questions and based on those answers, will list which, if any, benefits you are eligible for. Even this doesn't necessarily mean you will automatically get them. You still must apply and finish the process of determining whether or not you qualify.
Some of the questions that may be asked will pertain to your personal finances, along with your spouse's earnings. To better understand the types of questions you may be asked, you should speak with a Social Security disability attorney.
When it comes to Social Security, any component can be very time-consuming and complex. This is why it is usually best to enlist the help of someone who has experience in this area of law. A Social Security disability attorney in Charleston County, South Carolina can look at the specifics of your case to help you determine your eligibility.
Seeking the Help of a Social Security Disability Attorney in Charleston County, South Carolina
The South Carolina Social Security disability attorney team at the Shelly Leeke Law Firm is available to help with the complicated and time-consuming tasks associated with filing a disability claim. Before you file a Social Security disability claim in South Carolina, contact a disability attorney for a consultation 1-888-690-0211.
What is the difference between an independent contractor and an employee?
1) Is there direct evidence of the right to control?
2) Who paid the worker?
3) Who furnished the supplies or equipment?
4) Who has the right to fire the worker?
If you were injured in a work accident and are usure if you are an employee or an independent contract contact the Shelly Leeke Law Firm at 843-277-6061.