Pembroke Pines
Workplace Injury Attorney

If you have been hurt at work, you may have a hard time knowing what to do next. You are trying to heal from an injury, losing days at work, and figuring out how to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, you’re not alone. Many injured workers have similar, difficult experiences with complicated forms, claim denials, and long phone calls with the insurer, all adding to the stress and confusion.

If you have questions or are unsure about your next steps, a Pembroke Pines workplace injury lawyer at Phillips | Tadros, P.A., could explore your options with you. They will go over your claim, determine your eligibility for benefits, and guide you throughout the claims process. Connect with us today at (954) 642-8885 to learn more in a free consultation.

Workers' Compensation attorney Mac Phillips speaking with a client

How Our Workplace Injury Attorney at Our Firm Can Help You

If you’re having a hard time navigating Florida’s workers’ compensation system, our injury lawyers can share their knowledge and insight into related state laws and regulations.

The responsibilities they can carry out for you include:

  • Meeting deadlines for your appeal or application
  • Gathering evidence of your injury and eligibility to obtain benefits
  • Fighting a denial of your claim
  • Negotiating a settlement with the insurance company
  • Dealing with all communication
  • Representing you during the legal proceedings

Our workers’ compensation attorneys will serve you on a contingency-fee basis. We won’t ask for any retainers or upfront fees to start working on your case. Our fee comes from the compensation we secure for you.

What Does Florida Workers’ Compensation Cover?

Florida worker’s compensation covers most job or work-related injuries or illnesses. A work-related illness could be from exposure to toxins, such as asbestos or contaminated water. It could also be an accident, like a fall, or it could be from something long-term, like a repetitive stress injury.

Typical Costs Associated with Worker’s Compensation Claims

You may be able to recover the costs of these damages if you sustained a work injury or illness:

  • Medical costs for past and future care
  • Rehabilitation
  • Transportation
  • Vocational rehabilitation
  • Disability benefits
  • Funeral costs

Types of Injuries Prevalent in Work Accidents

Common injuries employees suffer at work include:

  • Burns
  • Broken bones
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Toxic chemical exposures
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Whether you are dealing with a construction site accident, a manufacturing chemical exposure, or an accident with a forklift, you deserve to have your employer give their full attention to your injury.

Workers’ compensation insurance is a requirement in Florida for most employers. You may have a different type of coverage if you are a government employee or an oil rig worker. Some types of work, like gig work, seasonal work, or farm work, may not be covered by workers’ compensation. You should talk with your employer or HR to see what your options are.

What Steps You Should Take If You’ve Been Injured at Work

When you have been injured at work, there are specific steps you should take. Your employer may have some rules about who or where to report when you have been hurt. Workers’ compensation law also has time limitsand other regulations that you should follow. Failure to comply may result in an automatic denial of your workers’ compensation benefits.

#1. Alert Your Employer of the Injury

According to Florida Statutes § 440.185, you generally have 30 days to notify your employer of your injury, but you should let them know as soon as you realize you were hurt.

#2. Get Medical Attention As Soon As Possible

Get medical attention right away, especially if your injury is urgent or life-threatening. If you need care for a non-urgent injury that has occurred over time, like a repetitive stress injury, you might need to fill out a referral form. Contact your employer to find out where you should seek treatment.

#3. Write Down Details of What Happened

Writing down details may seem like you are going overboard. However, you may be surprised how often our memories fail us in moments of stress or when asked something on the spot. Taking notes will give you something to refer to if you forget.

#4. Take Photos of the Scene and Your Injury

If you had an accident due to something malfunctioning or damaged, document the scene as much as you can. Take photos of the scene, your injury, or anything you feel is critical to your claim. Have a coworker help if you are unable.

#5. Get Names of Witnesses

Write down the names of those standing around who witnessed the accident. If your claim is denied and you go to court, you might need their testimony.

#6. Notify Employer of Injury in Writing

Use the Department of Labor’s form LS201 to notify your employer in writing that you have a work-related injury. You should send this within 30 days of the accident or learning of your injury. Even though you may have informed your employer of the accident, you should still follow through and send the written notification.

#7. File Workers’ Compensation Claim

Per the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), you typically must file a Petition for Benefits, which is the first step in making your workers’ compensation claim, within two years of your accident or injury. A workers’ compensation attorney can help, especially if your employer is trying to delay or refuse you payments.

Connect with Phillips | Tadros, P.A., for Help with Your Work Injury Case

When you are recuperating from a workplace injury, we understand how difficult this time can be for you and your family. Recovery and dealing with pain from injuries are hard enough without wondering how you will continue to provide for yourself and your family.

If you have been injured at work, a workers’ compensation attorney at Phillips | Tadros, P.A., will advocate for you from start to finish. Let us help you file your claim so you can get back to your life. Call us today at (954) 642-8885 for a free case review.