The process for workers’ compensation claims involves reporting your injury, receiving medical treatment, and filing a claim with your employer’s insurance provider. However, some cases can involve extra steps that are difficult to tackle if you don’t have legal experience.
Our Davie work accident lawyer can help you understand the workers’ compensation claim process and ensure you get the benefits you deserve. With an experienced attorney’s help, you’ll have an excellent chance at getting the compensation you need to move forward.
Seeking Medical Attention Is Part of the Process for Workers’ Compensation Claims
One of the most important things you can do during the workers’ compensation claim process is to seek medical attention ASAP. Getting the treatment you need will not only benefit your health but it will also show the insurance company that your injury is legitimate.
However, you won’t want to seek medical attention from any medical provider. Instead, you’ll want to see a physician or medical professional on the insurance company’s list of approved providers. If you receive treatment from a doctor who isn’t on the list of approved providers, the insurer could deny your claim of benefits.
More people choose The Schiller Kessler Group because they know that we’re a cut above other personal injury law firms.
Reporting the Accident to Your Employer
Once you’ve received treatment for your work injury, the next step of the process for workers’ compensation claims is reporting your injury to your employer. In Florida, you have 30 days to report your injury to your employer. Failure to report the incident in a timely manner can lead to issues with your claim.
When reporting the accident to your employer, give a brief and accurate description of what happened. Make sure you don’t exaggerate any details or include false information. Doing so could hurt your claim and stop you from getting the benefits you deserve.
Your Employer Must Report the Injury to the Insurance Company
Once you’ve reported your workplace injury to your employer, your employer has seven days to notify the insurance carrier. Once this step in the workers’ compensation claim process is complete, you’ll receive a letter from the insurance carrier with a copy of the accident report and information regarding your rights as an injured worker.
If your employer fails to report your accident to the insurance provider in a timely manner, you may be eligible to take legal action against them. An experienced attorney can offer advice on the steps required to seek damages in such a situation. They’ll also gather evidence to establish what caused your workers’ comp injury and pursue the compensation you deserve.
The Insurance Company Will Accept or Deny Your Claim
In many cases, the final step in the workers’ compensation claim process is when the insurer accepts the claim. If your claim is accepted, you’ll likely receive compensation for medical expenses, income-related losses, and even disability costs. That said, not all claims are accepted.
If your claim is denied, you’ll have the option to resolve the benefits dispute with the insurance adjuster or even file a petition for benefits. Depending on your situation, your case may also go to mediation, where an impartial mediator will help you and the insurer come to an agreement.
If the issue isn’t resolved during mediation, your case could go to a Judge of Compensation Claims (JCC) hearing. Once your case is heard, a final decision will be made as to whether you should receive benefits. If you disagree with the final ruling, you have the right to file an appeal with the First District Court of Appeals.
How a Lawyer Can Help
If you have to take additional steps to get the benefits you’re owed, you’ll want to have a dedicated lawyer by your side throughout every stage of the process. An attorney can represent your best interests at all times and draw on their experience to negotiate a settlement that meets your needs. If your case is successful, you could receive the following benefits:
- Medical benefits
- Temporary total disability benefits
- Temporary partial disability benefits
- Impairment income benefits
- Permanent total disability benefits
- Death benefits if your loved one has passed away due to work injuries
Learn More About the Process for Workers’ Compensation Claims in Florida
Seeking compensation after a work accident can be difficult, especially if you’re struggling to recover from a debilitating and painful injury. The good news is that the attorneys at The Schiller Kessler Group are here to advocate on your behalf and fight for the benefits you need to pay your medical bills, replace lost wages, and support yourself while you deal with your injury.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Florida work accident lawyer. They’ll meet with you to discuss your case and explain what the process for workers’ compensation claims is like. If you have grounds for a claim, we’ll work tirelessly to get the results you need to address your financial setbacks and get back on your feet.
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