Work accidents can happen at any time, leaving employees facing medical expenses, lost wages, and uncertainty about their future. Florida workers’ compensation laws are designed to protect injured workers by providing benefits to help them recover and return to work. If you’ve been injured on the job, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps to take to secure the benefits you deserve.
What Is Florida Workers’ Compensation?
Florida workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance system that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Unlike personal injury claims, workers’ comp does not require proving fault. Instead, as long as the injury occurred within the scope of employment, an injured worker is typically eligible for benefits.
Steps to Take After a Work Accident in Florida
If you’ve been involved in a work accident, taking immediate action can strengthen your claim and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to:
- Report the Injury – Notify your employer as soon as possible. Florida law requires injured employees to report their injury within 30 days of the accident.
- Seek Medical Treatment – Your employer or their workers’ comp insurer will provide a list of authorized doctors. Receiving treatment from an approved physician is crucial to maintaining eligibility for benefits.
- File a Claim – Your employer should report the injury to their workers’ compensation insurer. If they fail to do so, you have the right to file a claim with the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation.
- Follow Medical Advice – Attending all medical appointments and following your doctor’s instructions helps document the severity of your injuries and supports your claim.
What Benefits Can You Receive Under Florida Workers’ Compensation?
If your workers’ compensation claim is approved, you may be eligible for:
- Medical Benefits – Coverage for necessary treatment, prescriptions, and rehabilitation services.
- Lost Wages – Temporary total disability (TTD) or temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits if you’re unable to work.
- Permanent Disability – If your injury results in long-term impairment, you may qualify for permanent partial or total disability benefits.
- Vocational Rehabilitation – Assistance with job retraining if you’re unable to return to your previous employment.
Common Reasons Workers’ Compensation Claims Are Denied
Despite having a legitimate claim, some injured workers face denials from insurance companies. Common reasons include:
- Failure to report the injury on time.
- Disputes over whether the injury was work-related.
- Missed medical appointments or non-compliance with treatment.
- Employer or insurer arguing that the injury is pre-existing.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to challenge the decision by filing a Petition for Benefits with the Office of the Judges of Compensation Claims (OJCC).
Do You Need a Workers’ Compensation Attorney?
Navigating Florida workers’ compensation laws can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize or deny your claim. A knowledgeable workers’ comp attorney can:
- Ensure all paperwork is correctly filed.
- Represent you in disputes with the insurance company.
- Help maximize your benefits and fight for fair compensation.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
At Tijerino Law Group, we specialize in helping injured workers secure the workers’ comp benefits they deserve. If you’ve suffered a work accident in Florida and need legal guidance, contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you need to recover and move forward.
Call 305-978-5370 to get started today.