Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. In Florida, most employers with four or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If you’re injured on the job, you may be entitled to benefits such as medical treatment, and temporary disability benefits, Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning that you don’t need to prove that your employer was negligent in order to receive benefits. Workers’ compensation is designed to protect you as an employee. Even if your employer was not at fault for your injury, you may still be entitled to benefits.
Reporting Your Injury
If you’ve been injured at work, the first step is to report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. You have 30 days from the date of the injury to report it to your employer. Failure to report your injury within this timeframe may result in your claim being denied.
When reporting your injury, be sure to provide the following
- The date, time, and location of the incident
- A description of how the injury occurred
- A description of your injuries and any symptoms you’re experiencing
- The names of any witnesses to the incident
Medical Treatment
After reporting your injury, your employer should provide you with a list of authorized medical providers. In Florida, you must seek treatment from an authorized provider for your medical expenses to be covered under workers’ compensation. Be sure to keep detailed records of your medical treatment.
After you’ve reported your work-related injury to your employer, your employer should notify their workers’ compensation insurance carrier. The insurance carrier will then take over the claims process. If your claim is denied or you disagree with any aspect of your benefits, you can try to resolve the dispute by contacting the insurance adjuster or seeking assistance from the Florida Employee Assistance Office. If the dispute cannot be resolved informally, your case may proceed to mediation, a pre-trial hearing, and a final hearing before a Judge of Compensation Claims.
If your doctor determines that you’re able to return to work, your employer may offer you light duty or modified work. If you refuse to accept this work, your benefits may be suspended or terminated. However, if your doctor has not released you to return to work, or if your employer does not offer you suitable work within your physical limitations, you may be entitled to continue receiving temporary disability benefits. If you’re unable to return to your previous job due to your injuries, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services. These services can include job training, education, and job placement assistance to help you find suitable employment within your physical limitations.
