Do I Need a Lawyer for My Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Claim?
If you got hurt on the job in South Florida, one of the first questions you may have concerns whether you need a lawyer. Maybe your claim seems simple, or you’re trying to avoid extra hassle and costs. The fact is that there’s no law requiring you to get legal guidance, but working with an experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer protects your rights and can help you get the benefits you need to recover.
Representing Yourself in a Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Claim
Under Section 440 of the Florida Statutes, employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage, which can provide valuable benefits when on-the-job injuries occur in Fort Lauderdale. However, insurance companies are quick to deny and dispute claims, which is why it makes sense to have an experienced Florida workers’ compensation lawyer on your side.
Not every situation requires legal help, though. If your case checks these boxes, you might be representing yourself in a claim, at least for now:
- Your injuries are relatively minor.
- Your employer reported the injury right away without any pushback or delay.
- The insurance company approved your medical treatment without any argument.
- You’re not missing significant time from work, or you’re back at full duty within a week or two
- Nobody is disputing that the injury happened at work
If that sounds like your situation, you can likely manage the basic paperwork and follow-up appointments without legal representation.
When You Really Need Someone in Your Corner
Benefits available through the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation help protect your health and prevent financial losses when on-the-job injuries in Fort Lauderdale happen. While some claims are relatively simple and can be handled on your own, the stakes are higher in other cases.
However, there are some situations where you really need an experienced South Florida workers’ compensation lawyer in your corner. These include:
- The insurance company has denied your claim or is disputing whether your injury is actually work-related.
- Your injury requires surgery, ongoing physical therapy, or any long-term treatment.
- You’ve reached maximum medical improvement and suffer long-term impairments.
- Your employer offered you a settlement or lump sum, and you’re not sure if the number is fair.
- Your employer has retaliated against you since you reported the injury or filed a claim.
Worried about the cost of getting legal help? Legal fees in Florida workers’ comp cases are typically paid from any settlements or jury awards, so there are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs.
Not Sure Where Your Claim Stands? Consult Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Workers’ compensation in Florida can help cover your medical care and portions of lost income when on-the-job injuries happen. Wondering whether you need legal help in filing a claim?
Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer protects injured workers, advising them of their rights and guiding them through available options. Call or contact the Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A., online, and request a consultation at our Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach office today.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/0440.html