Workers Compensation
Helping South Florida Workers Obtain Compensation For Work-Related Injuries
Medical costs associated with injuries on site can be incredibly costly, so it’s important to understand workers comp offered by employers and the federal government. Florida workers’ compensation was designed to provide medical care, disability income and other benefits for workers who are injured on the job. Unfortunately, employers and insurance carriers sometimes look for ways to avoid paying benefits — especially if a worker suffers an injury that may result in an extended absence from work and missed wages.
An employee that suffers from an injury that leads to a disability makes it even more vital to understand the benefits you are able to receive from employers.
If you suffered serious injuries in a workplace accident or you suffer from an occupational illness, the law firm of Thompson & Thomas, P.A., can help. Our workers’ comp lawyers are committed to helping you recover the benefits you need and deserve. Our law office is in West Palm Beach, and we serve employees and their families throughout South Florida.
Federal Government’s Mandate for State Benefit Programs
The US Federal Government has required that states provide an insurance program to protect the health of its employees.
You can find links to the appropriate office in your state on the State Workers’ Compensation Officials page of the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) website. From here you can search for different types of coverage.
Filing A Workers’ Compensation Claim
Types of Workers’ Compensation
Contested Workers’ Compensation Claims
The employer may dispute your worker’s compensation claim if there is a doubt that you were injured during the course and scope of employment or that the injuries were caused by a work-related accident. If your employer contests the circumstances of your injury or if there’s an issue regarding your employer’s insurance provider, your best bet is to consult an experienced employment law attorney. Workers’ compensation laws are complex and confusing. Don’t try to take on your employer and its insurance carrier alone.
Understanding The Workers’ Compensation Claims Process
The workers’ compensation claims process can be fraught with difficulty. If your informal request for benefits is denied, Florida law requires you to file a formal claim called a “petition for benefits” within two years of the date of the accident. If the workers’ compensation carrier denies your formal claim, you will have to attend a mediation conference to try and resolve the dispute. If no agreement can be reached at mediation with your employer and its insurance carrier, you will have to attend an administrative hearing before a Florida judge of compensation claims. If you lose your hearing in front of the judge of compensation claims, there are additional levels of appeal beyond the initial administrative level. Search for an experienced workers’ compensation attorney right away so you don’t hinder your claim.
Learn more about Florida workers’ compensation:
Who will pay my bills if I can’t work?
Will I always need a lawyer for workers’ compensation issues?
Do I have options beyond workers’ compensation?
Testimonial: The firm of Thompson & Thomas, P.A., was recommended to me by a friend, and I could not have been more pleased. My case was very sensitive and they understood that at the onset. Their ability to listen, comprehend and appropriately act in my best interest was immediately apparent. They are professional, compassionate and confident in their approach and proved that to me over and again throughout a very challenging time in my life. If needed, I would use them again and recommend them to anyone needing legal services. — Past client
Call For A Free Attorney Consultation
Thompson & Thomas, P.A., has been assisting injured West Palm Beach and Port St. Lucie residents with workers’ compensation claims for over 50 combined years. Call 561-651-4150 or contact us for a free initial consultation.