If you’ve been injured at work in Tampa, you should first seek immediate medical attention, then report the injury to your employer as soon as possible by filling out a workplace injury report and informing your supervisor.
Be sure you do so within 30 days of the incident to maintain eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits. However, it’s important to note insurance companies and employers often deny or delay legitimate claims, even if you have done everything right.
Our experienced work injury lawyers at Berlin Law Firm can help. With offices in Tampa and Sarasota, we help injured employees throughout the state of Florida receive their maximum benefits.
Discuss Your Work Injury Claim for Free
Learn the types of compensation you may be eligible for and have your questions answered. Call today.
Confirming Eligibility for Workers’ Comp in Florida
An experienced Tampa workers’ compensation lawyer can confirm eligibility after reviewing the details of your case. Eligibility requirements generally include:
- Your employer has workers’ comp insurance coverage.
- You sustained injuries at work.
- As per Florida Statute §440.185(1), you must report your injuries within 30 days to your employer, preferably in writing.
- You are a full or part-time employee, not an independent contractor.
Despite the month-long time frame, we recommend reporting the injury as soon as possible.
The Steps for Reporting Work-Related Injuries or Illnesses
The steps for reporting work-related injury in Tampa are as follows:
- Report the incident immediately. Notify your employer as soon as possible after the injury or illness occurs and that you intend to pursue a workers’ comp claim. It’s important to keep copies of all text messages, emails, or anything confirming that you reported your injury and requested medical treatment to your employer within 30 days of the injury. This helps to build a strong timeline.
- Seek necessary medical treatment. If your injuries require immediate medical attention, see a doctor immediately and tell them this is a work-related injury and that this information must be retained in your medical records. If your doctor is not authorized by the insurer, you may be required to have another examination by someone who is.
- Maintain detailed records. Write down the location, time, date, and nature of your injury. Store copies of medical records, incident reports, and other relevant documents in a safe place.
- Wait to Hear from Your Employer’s Insurance Company. Your employer is mandated to send the First Report of an Injury to the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation within seven days.
- Follow the Treatment Plan from an Authorized Provider. Schedule and attend all appointments, and diligently follow their treatment plan as it demonstrates your commitment to recovery.
You may consult with our experienced Florida workers’ compensation attorneys at any time, free of charge, to determine if you meet these criteria. The Florida Statutes require filing a claim within two years.
Discuss Your Work Injury Claim for Free
Learn the types of compensation you may be eligible for and have your questions answered. Call today.
What to Do If There’s a Dispute Over Your Claim for Benefits
If there’s a dispute over your workers’ compensation claim in Tampa, FL, it’s highly advisable to work with an attorney to ensure your claim is handled properly. This is often the first sign that the insurance company may be attempting to delay or deny your claim.
We hear and understand the hesitancy of workers to seek legal help. Our team works diligently to protect your job while professionally representing your case and your best interests. If you hire us, we will handle every step of your case. Our team is paid by the court system and/or on a contingency basis, so you will never write us a check.
You should take the following steps to protect your rights and resolve the issue:
- Understand the Dispute: Identify why your claim is being disputed. Common reasons include questions about the injury’s work-related nature and whether proper notice or treatment was necessary.
- Gather Evidence: Compile all relevant documentation, such as medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and correspondence with your employer or insurer. This evidence will help support your case.
- Contact an Attorney: Consult a workers’ compensation attorney experienced in Florida law. They can assess your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the dispute process.
- File a Petition for Benefits: If your dispute cannot be resolved informally, you can file a Petition for Benefits with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. This legal step requests a formal hearing to resolve the disagreement.
- Attend Mediation: Florida law often requires mediation before proceeding to a hearing. This process aims to settle disputes amicably without going to court.
- Prepare for a Hearing: If mediation fails, your case will go before a judge. Present your evidence, and your attorney will argue on your behalf.
Discuss Your Work Injury Claim for Free
Learn the types of compensation you may be eligible for and have your questions answered. Call today.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today at Berlin Law Firm
If you are looking for a skilled workers’ compensation law firm to handle your claim, you can be sure that Berlin Law Firm will work tirelessly on your behalf. Our attorneys and staff provide the highest level of advocacy while simultaneously protecting your job, easing your financial and emotional burden, and attending to the specific needs of your case in a timely manner. Our attorneys know the tactics insurance companies often use to avoid paying and are ready to defend you.
Schedule your consultation for a free case review with our Florida workers’ compensation lawyer.
Discuss Your Work Injury Claim for Free
Learn the types of compensation you may be eligible for and have your questions answered. Call today.
