Retail & Hospitality

Injuries

If you’ve been hurt serving others, we’re here to help you protect your rights.

Help for Injured Retail and Service Workers

When Your Job Puts You at Risk

From restaurants and hotels to big-box stores and boutiques, retail and hospitality jobs often come with physical demands and unpredictable risks. If you’ve been injured while lifting heavy stock, slipping on a wet floor, or working long shifts on your feet, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. At Eller Frye Law, we help employees across South Carolina and North Carolina understand their rights and get the support they need to recover.

What You Should Know

Common Injury Risks in Retail & Hospitality

Slips, trips, and falls happen often.

These are among the most frequent injuries in restaurants, hotels, and retail stores.

Lifting injuries are common.

Stockroom work, unloading inventory, and moving supplies can lead to muscle strain and joint damage.

Burns and cuts can be covered.

Kitchen staff, hotel cleaners, and baristas often face risks from hot surfaces and sharp tools.

Long hours can lead to wear-and-tear injuries.

Joint, back, and foot problems may build over time and still qualify for a claim.

You don’t have to be full-time to be eligible.

Part-time and seasonal workers are often covered under South Carolina’s workers’ compensation laws.

Retail & Service Claims in South Carolina

What You Need to Know If You’ve Been Hurt at Work

In South Carolina, retail and hospitality workers—including restaurant servers, cashiers, stock clerks, housekeepers, and bartenders—are eligible to file workers’ compensation claims for job-related injuries. Injuries should be reported to your employer within 90 days, and medical treatment should come from a provider authorized by your employer’s insurer. Whether your injury occurred during a one-time incident or developed slowly over time, you may be entitled to medical care, lost wages, and additional compensation if the injury results in long-term impairment. If your claim is denied, you have the right to request a hearing through the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission.

Workers’ Comp FAQ for Retail & Hospitality Workers

Answers for Frontline Service Employees

  • What types of injuries are common in retail and hospitality jobs?

    Common injuries include sprains, fractures from falls, cuts, burns, back strain from lifting, and repetitive stress injuries. These often occur in kitchens, storerooms, checkout areas, and guest-facing environments. If the injury happened during your regular job duties, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation.

  • Can I file a claim if I only work part-time or seasonally?

    Yes. South Carolina workers’ comp laws don’t require you to be a full-time employee. If your employer has four or more employees and you were injured doing your job, you’re likely covered—regardless of how many hours you work per week. Always report your injury and seek authorized medical treatment.

  • What if I slipped on a wet floor during my shift?

    Slip-and-fall injuries are one of the most common and valid reasons for workers’ compensation claims in the retail and service industries. If the fall happened while you were on duty, even during a break, it likely qualifies. Document the incident and report it immediately to your supervisor

  • My injury wasn’t sudden—it got worse over time. Can I still file?

    Yes. Conditions like chronic foot pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, or back problems from long shifts can develop gradually and still qualify for workers’ compensation. You’ll need a doctor’s diagnosis linking your condition to your work duties, and it’s important to report the injury as soon as you recognize it.

  • What happens if my claim is denied?

    If your claim is denied, you still have options. You can file for a hearing through the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission to present medical evidence and explain your situation. Legal support can help ensure your rights are protected and your case is as strong as possible.