What You Should Know When Seeking Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Florida law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance to help workers who have been injured on the job. While the claims process should be easy and straightforward, it can be just the opposite, leaving workers frustrated and facing financial difficulties. Thankfully, working with an experienced attorney like Lee Viacava can make the workers’ compensation process easier, and it could increase your chances of an approved claim.

On this page is some important information you should know about workers’ compensation in Florida, including what to expect and potential risks to avoid. After reading, feel free to contact the Lee Viacava Law Firm for case-specific advice and guidance.

Knowing And Following Rules And Requirements Is Critical

Insurance companies increase their own profits by denying or limiting claims. As such, they will look for any reason to deny you benefits, including failure to precisely follow rules and requirements. Here are some important things to know:

  • You need to report your injury to your employer within 30 days in order to qualify for benefits. Ideally, you would report immediately.
  • After you report, your employer is required to notify the insurer within seven days, after which the insurer needs to contact you with an informational brochure. If your employer fails to report the injury, you can directly contact the insurer.
  • You can only be treated by a physician who has been approved by the insurance company (with the exception of emergency medical treatment). If you don’t go with an approved physician, your expenses may not be covered.
  • If you fail to follow treatment recommendations, coverage of your medical bills may be discontinued.

Meeting these requirements can be annoying, but you don’t want to give insurers an easy reason to deny your claim.

You Cannot Legally Be Fired For Seeking Benefits

Many workers hesitate to file a workers’ compensation claim because they fear they’ll be fired or face other retaliation. It is illegal for employers to terminate an employee’s job or to otherwise retaliate because the worker filed a workers’ compensation claim.

Unfortunately, this still sometimes happens, with employers citing a different (and often flimsy) reason for the termination. While hiring a workers’ compensation attorney is not a guaranteed safeguard against claim-related retaliation, employers are less likely to try something illegal if they know you have an attorney representing you.

Reach Out Today For Skilled Legal Guidance

To schedule your initial consultation with attorney Lee Viacava, call 239-990-2667, or send an email.