The workers’ compensation system is in place to provide medical care and reimbursement of lost wages for employees who become injured or ill due to a job-related accident or workplace condition. There is no need to prove fault in order to qualify for workers’ compensation. However, injured workers must report incidents to their employer as soon as possible in order to preserve their right to receive benefits.
Understanding the steps for reporting an accident or occupational illness and for claiming workers’ compensation can be the difference between receiving the benefits you deserve and losing out on necessary medical and financial support you need to recover from your workplace injury.
Injured workers must report the accident or illness to their supervisor promptly. In certain instances, they may seek immediate medical treatment if required and then notify their employer. However, it is recommended to report the accident before seeking treatment. Many employers have a process for reporting accidents. Florida requires the employee to alert the employer within 30 days of an accident or of diagnosis of the illness. Reporting an accident can be done in person, on the phone or in writing. Employees should also follow up with the workers’ compensation insurance provider to ensure that it has received and processed their claims. Missed deadlines can be detrimental to workers’ compensation claims and can bar workers from receiving medical treatment and compensation for their injuries.
Workers’ compensation cases involve complex issues, such as proving that your injury is work-related. One simple mistake can cripple your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can walk you through the process, file your claim and represent at all stages of the case. An attorney will know how to collect the right evidence, gather crucial witness information and obtain important documents to support your case. An attorney can also help you negotiate a settlement or to pursue an appeal if your claim is denied in whole or in part.
Vassallo, Bilotta & Davis specializes in helping injured workers with all aspects of Florida workers’ compensation claims. Please call 561-471-2800 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation at our Stuart and West Palm Beach offices.
