Being injured on the job in Palm Harbor, Florida, can result in significant financial losses. Florida’s workers’ compensation laws may entitle you to benefits to help you as you recover from your injuries. In some cases, you might also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit for additional money damages.
Our attorneys at Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers have over 60 years of combined experience. We’re qualified to handle all types of workers’ compensation claims, including the most complex cases. To date, we have recovered over $200 million in compensation for clients.
Contact us today at (727) 787-2500 to schedule a free consultation with our Palm Harbor workers’ compensation lawyers. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case.
How Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help You With Your Workers’ Comp Claim in Palm Harbor, Florida
Since the day we opened our doors, our injury attorneys have worked hard to help injured victims and their families seek the compensation they need and deserve. In addition to seasoned trial lawyers and skilled negotiators, we have a Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer on our team. We have an AV Preeminent rating with Martindale-Hubbell, which is its highest peer rating.
When you hire our top-rated Palm Harbor personal injury lawyers, you can trust that we will:
- Investigate the circumstances that led to your work injury
- Prepare and file documents for a workers’ compensation claim and/or appeal
- Determine if you have a third-party personal injury claim to recover additional compensation
- Gather evidence, including working with expert witnesses, to build a strong case
- Negotiate a fair settlement for your workers’ comp claim
- Appeal your case and litigate the claim if necessary
Numerous organizations have given our attorneys top ratings and awards for our successful track record and legal services. Some organizations that have recognized our lawyers include Super Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, Elite Lawyer, Expertise.com, and Attorney and Practice Magazine’s Top 10. We are members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum as well.
Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Palm Harbor, FL.
Overview of Workers’ Compensation Claims in Palm Harbor, FL
With very few exceptions, employers must purchase workers’ compensation insurance coverage for employees. Workers’ comp is a no-fault system. Employees can receive benefits without proving that their employer or another party was negligent. An injured worker can receive full benefits even if they are partially to blame for causing their work injury.
A worker must prove that their injury was sustained during the ordinary course of their employment. Furthermore, a worker cannot intentionally cause their injuries or be intoxicated when injured to receive benefits.
Workers’ comp covers most physical injuries. However, Florida law states that mental or nervous injuries are not covered unless there is significant evidence proving a correlation to a physical injury.
Injured workers must choose a physician from a list of approved medical providers from their employer. However, if a worker requires emergency medical services, they should go to the nearest urgent care facility or hospital.
Injured employees must report work injuries and accidents to their employers within 30 days. Workers have up to two years to file a workers’ compensation under Florida’s statute of limitations.
What Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits Can Employees Receive?
If you are injured at work, you may receive workers’ comp benefits, including:
Medical Benefits
Workers’ compensation pays for necessary and reasonable medical care after a workplace accident. If you seek treatment from a medical provider not on the approved list from your employer, workers’ compensation does not have to pay the bills.
Temporary Disability Benefits
If your work injury prevents you from working, you can receive temporary total disability benefits. Your benefits are two-thirds of your average weekly wages. These benefits are paid up to 104 weeks or when you reach maximum medical improvement. After 104 weeks, you are evaluated to determine if you have a permanent impairment.
If you can return to work with restrictions, you may receive partial disability benefits. These benefits equal 80% of the difference between your average weekly wages and what you can earn.
Permanent Disability Benefits
If you sustain a permanent impairment because of a work injury, you may receive permanent disability benefits. The amount of your benefits depends on whether you are totally disabled or partially disabled.
Death Benefits
Family members can receive death benefits if a work-related injury causes a worker’s death. They can receive up to $7,500 for funeral benefits. Surviving dependents may also receive weekly payments up to the maximum amount allowed by statute.
Common Injuries Caused by Workplace Accidents in Palm Harbor, FL
Workplace accidents can cause severe injuries and life-threatening conditions. Examples of work-related injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Back and neck injuries
- Fractured and broken bones
- Amputations and loss of limbs
- Paralysis and spinal cord injuries
- Severe burns
- Electrocutions
- Hearing and/or vision loss
- Soft tissue injuries
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Repetitive motion injuries
Prompt medical care is crucial after a work injury. Following your doctor’s treatment plan and keeping all appointments is also essential. If you fail to follow through with medical treatment, your workers’ comp claim could be denied.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Palm Harbor Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
If you’ve been injured at work, call Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to discuss your legal options during a free case review with a Palm Harbor workers’ compensation attorney. We fight for the rights of injured workers to receive the benefits and compensation they deserve.