Managing Bills While Waiting For Workers’ Compensation In South Florida
When on-the-job injuries in Fort Lauderdale happen, your income may grind to a stop overnight. However, you still have all your usual expenses, as well as medical care and other costs.
Making rent or mortgage payments, paying utilities, buying groceries, and keeping up with car payments add to the stress during an already difficult time. While Florida workers’ compensation can help offset lost income, it is hard to know exactly when your first check will arrive.
Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer helps clients in these cases and explains more about the benefits you may be entitled to in a claim and the practical steps you can take to manage your bills while waiting.
How To Protect Your Financial Security While Waiting For Workers’ Compensation Benefits in South Florida
Work-related injuries in South Florida can impact every aspect of your life. You may require ongoing medical care and need help from friends and family to keep up with daily tasks.
Benefits available through the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation provide a safety net, covering your medical care and offsetting lost income. However, it can take weeks for these benefits to begin, and even longer if insurers deny or dispute your claim.
If facing this situation, don’t panic. Continue to prioritize your health and recovery, and focus on small, practical steps to protect your financial security:
- Pay essential bills first, such as housing, utilities, food, and transportation.
- Contact creditors early to explain your situation and ask about deferred payment options.
- Set up payment plans when possible to avoid falling behind.
- Pause or reduce non-essential expenses until income resumes.
- Keep records of missed income and expenses related to your injury.
Many lenders and service providers offer temporary relief if you communicate early. However, waiting too long to reach out can limit your options.
Understanding What Florida Workers’ Compensation Covers
The Florida Statutes require most employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance for injured employees. Knowing what is covered can help you plan ahead. Benefits available include:
- Partial wage replacement (generally two-thirds of your prior income) if your doctor says you are unable to work.
- Medical treatment costs, including doctor visits and therapy.
- Mileage reimbursement for travel to medical appointments
- Ongoing benefits if your recovery takes longer than expected or you suffer long-term impairments.
There is an automatic one-week waiting period, but insurers may take even longer to approve your benefits. If your claim is denied or delayed, get legal help right away.
Request a Consultation Today With An Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Waiting for workers’ compensation benefits in South Florida can feel overwhelming, especially when bills keep piling up. At The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A., we help injured workers get the total amount they are entitled to in the least amount of time possible.
Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer deals with insurers on your behalf, addresses delays, and fights to protect your financial security. Call or contact us online to request a consultation in our Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach office today.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0447/Sections/0447.301.html