Six Common Accidents That Could Qualify You For Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Benefits
On-the-job accidents and injuries in Fort Lauderdale can leave you facing serious financial insecurities. Between missed work and medical expenses, losses can total hundreds of thousands of dollars. Workers’ compensation benefits in Florida can help cover these costs, but many workers aren’t sure what counts or whether they are covered.
Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer shares six common accidents that could qualify you for benefits and how to protect your rights in a claim.
Common On-the-Job Accidents in Fort Lauderdale That Could Entitle You To Workers’ Compensation in Florida
When on-the-job accidents in Fort Lauderdale happen and prevent you from working, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These cover your medical bills, missed income, and other costs.
Under the Florida Statutes, most employers must provide workers’ compensation coverage, which protects the rights of injured workers and helps prevent lawsuits. You do not need to prove anyone was at fault to get benefits. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that common types of on-the-job accidents in Florida, which may qualify for workers’ compensation in Fort Lauderdale, include:
- Slips, trips, and falls;
- Getting caught in equipment or machinery;
- Getting struck by tools or debris;
- Transportation and motor vehicle accidents;
- Fires, explosions, and electrical shocks;
- Exposure to hazardous substances, resulting in occupational illnesses.
Overuse and repetitive stress are common as well, causing harm that builds over time. Regardless of how you were hurt, if it happened at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in Fort Lauderdale.
How To Protect Your Rights When On-the-Job Accidents In Fort Lauderdale Happen
Injured on the job? Don’t delay. You may be entitled to benefits through the Division of Workers’ Compensation (WC), but you need to report your injury within 30 days. It’s best to speak up as soon as possible.
Tell your manager or company owner, request a written incident report, and get medical care from an approved provider. Your employer should notify their insurance company, which may contact you about treatment and possible wage replacement. To protect your rights, take these steps:
- Attend all doctor visits and follow up on recommendations regarding testing, treatment, and activity restrictions.
- Keep copies of relevant medical records and billing statements, and document out-of-pocket costs.
- Respond promptly to any communications from workers’ comp or the insurer.
- Get legal help immediately if your claim is delayed or denied.
You shouldn’t have to chase benefits while trying to heal. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer deals with employers, insurers, and the WC, so you don’t have to.
Consult Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Injured on the job in Fort Lauderdale and unsure of what to do next? Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer is here to help.
The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A., has successfully represented injured workers across South Florida for over 30 years. We provide personal attention, exceptional service, and proven results. To get your benefits, request a consultation in our Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise, or West Palm Beach office today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/0440ContentsIndex.html
osha.gov/ords/imis/AccidentSearch.search?acc_keyword=%22Unguarded%20Fl%20Opening%22&keyword_list=on
myfloridacfo.com/division/wc