Have You Been Injured At Work?

Each state has its own workers’ compensation system, which is governed by state law. Florida passed its first workers’ compensation laws in 1935.

Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that covers on-the-job injuries. Employers pay the insurance premiums. Then, when an employee is injured, he or she receives financial and medical benefits. That’s how the system is supposed to work. When the process doesn’t work, it’s important to have an experienced workers’ comp lawyer on your side.

Here are questions we at Hilado Law frequently receive regarding workers’ comp.

Who Is Covered By Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation covers employees who get injured while performing work activities. Coverage includes:

• Payments for medical care
• Income for lost wages
• Permanent disability compensation
• Survivor benefits for worker fatalities

Whether or not you were on company property, if you were performing work duties when you suffered your injury, you should qualify for workers’ compensation.

What Types Of Injuries Does Workers’ Comp Cover?

Here are the kinds of injuries that workers’ comp typically covers:

• Injuries that happen while you are at work
• Illnesses that are caused by exposure to harmful substances while at work
• Pre-existing conditions that have been made worse by the work you do
• Physical or mental injuries that are the result of stress or harassment

Workers’ comp is a no-fault system, which means you can collect benefits even if the injury was caused by your actions. However, if it is found that the worker was under the influence of alcohol or drugs when injured, workers’ compensation benefits will be denied. Self-inflicted injuries or injuries incurred while violating workplace policies are also not covered.

What Are The Types Of Workers’ Comp Benefits?

The type of benefits from a successful workers’ compensation claim can include:

• Medical care
• Replacement of income
• Retraining costs, if retraining is needed
• Compensation for permanent injuries
• Benefits to survivors, the case of a death

Income replacement is not 100 percent of your pay, but most workers’ comp benefits are not taxed.

How Does The Workers’ Compensation System Work In Florida?

It can be very tough for an employee to deal with Florida’s worker comp system. Our state’s laws often favor employers instead of employees. The employer picks the doctor you see, and there is no guarantee that your job will be held for your return. The advocacy of an attorney is crucial to ensure you are not unduly taken advantage of.

Can I Still Sue My Employer If I Get Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

There are few circumstances in which an employee can sue an employer for a work injury. An example is when an employer acts in dishonesty toward the employee. Consult with a lawyer to determine if you can file a lawsuit against your employer.

What Can Go Wrong? Why Would You Need A Lawyer?

In theory, the workers’ compensation system is straightforward. You might be wondering: why would I need an attorney? Here are a few examples:

• The application process feels complicated and intimidating. You don’t want to make a mistake that leads to the denial of benefits.
• The insurance company denies your claim.
• The insurance company does not provide the complete benefits you deserve.
• Your employer discourages you from filing a workers’ comp claim.
• Your employer retaliates against you for filing a claim.
• You are receiving unsatisfactory medical care.

When things go wrong, it’s crucial to have a workers’ comp attorney who can mount a workers’ comp defense to get the benefits to which you are entitled.

How To Contact Us For A Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured at work or have questions about workers’ compensation, contact Hilado Law in Orlando. Since 1993, we have represented injured workers in central Florida. We are committed to helping you get the benefits you deserve.

To arrange a free consultation, contact us through our website or call us at 407-686-1723. Our office is in Orlando, and we serve clients throughout central Florida.