How Mileage Reimbursement Works In A Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Claim

If you suffer from on-the-job injuries in Fort Lauderdale, you may already know that Florida workers’ compensation covers your medical care and lost income. However, did you know you may be entitled to reimbursement for the cost of driving to and from doctors’ appointments?

Over time, these trips add up. Getting reimbursed for your mileage helps offset high fuel costs and makes it easier to keep up with treatment. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer explains more about this benefit and how to claim reimbursement for travel-related expenses.

When Can You Get Reimbursed for Mileage in a Florida Workers’ Compensation Claim?

When work-related injuries happen in Fort Lauderdale, getting prompt medical care plays a vital role in recovery. Unfortunately, traveling to and from appointments can get expensive.

Under Section 440.13(13) of the Florida Statutes, workers’ compensation benefits include payment of round-trip mileage on all related medical appointments. You may be eligible for mileage reimbursement in a Florida workers’ compensation claim if:

• You drive to a doctor, hospital, or urgent care for a work-related injury.
• You attend physical therapy or need lab work or imaging (such as an MRI).
• You see a pain management specialist or attend an Independent Medical Exam (IME).
• You travel for treatment or a pharmacy pickup that is far from home.
• You take a bus, Uber, or taxi and provide a receipt.

You must be attending an authorized appointment to get mileage reimbursement, not one you chose on your own or pay out of pocket for. If you’re unsure whether your visit qualifies, check with the insurer or your lawyer before submitting.

How to Request Mileage Reimbursement After a Fort Lauderdale Work Injury

When you suffer on-the-job injuries in South Florida, mileage reimbursement is one of the benefits you may be entitled to through the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). However, getting approved isn’t automatic. Here’s how to request it:

• Use the approved Florida DWC-40 mileage reimbursement form.
• List all travel related to authorized care, including address, dates, and purpose.
• Track the mileage yourself using tools like Google Maps to calculate round-trip distances.
• Submit the form within 30 days of the travel date.
• Keep a copy of every form you send in.
• Follow up with the insurance adjuster if you don’t receive payment within a reasonable time.

As of December 2025, the reimbursement rate is $0.445 per mile. However, that can change, so check the current rate on the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation site.

For Trusted Legal Help Getting Your Benefits, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If you’re recovering from on-the-job injuries in Fort Lauderdale and spending money on gas or rides to medical appointments, you may be entitled to payment.

With over 30 years of experience and offices in Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A., helps injured workers get the full benefits they deserve, including mileage reimbursement. Contact our Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer and request a consultation today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/Sections/0440.13.html

myfloridacfo.com/division/wc

myfloridacfo.com/docs-sf/risk-management-libraries/risk-documents/wccmileagereimbursementform07-2014.docx?sfvrsn=770c8c80_5