
When you are injured while working, it can create considerable strain on your life. Not only do you have to navigate the injuries you’ve endured and the pain and suffering that often accompany them, but it can also create financial hardship as the cost of medical care is undeniably expensive. As such, it’s imperative to connect with a Broward County work injury lawyer to explore your legal rights when it comes to receiving a workers’ compensation award. The following blog explores what you should know about filing and what to do if you receive an offer that is considerably lower than the value of your claim.
How Do I File for a Workers’ Compensation Award?
Any worker injured while on the job is eligible to file a claim for workers’ compensation, with some exceptions. Generally, the only time you will be ineligible to file is if you were not on the clock when the injury occurred, the injury was the result of horseplay or a physical altercation with another worker, or you were intoxicated on duty when the injury occurred. If you are injured, even if you made a mistake that led to the injury, you are eligible to recover compensation.
To file a claim, the first thing you must do is report the injury to your supervisor or manager. They should file a formal internal report to document the accident and any injuries you’ve sustained. In the event the injury does not immediately manifest, you must report the injury within 30 days of discovery. After reporting the injury, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Generally, you must see a doctor authorized by your employer. However, if you need immediate medical treatment, you should seek emergency care.
Once you have received treatment, you can file a claim with the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation. In Florida, you will have two years to file a workers’s compensation claim. However, you should file as soon as possible, as waiting too long can complicate these matters.
What Can I Do if I Think I Did Not Receive Sufficient Compensation?
When you file for workers’ compensation, you may be disappointed to discover that the award you receive is much lower than anticipated. If this is the case, it’s important to understand that you do not have to settle. In many instances, the first offer you receive will be low, as the insurance company hopes you do not realize the true value of your claim. However, you can file an appeal with the Workers’ Compensation Board to have your award increased to reflect the true value of your claim.
If you have been injured while on the job, the best thing you can do from the start is connect with an experienced attorney from the Finizio Law Group. Our team will work with you from the moment you are injured to help improve your chances of receiving a favorable outcome for your workers’ compensation award. If you’ve been injured, we can help. Contact our team today to learn how we can assist you during these difficult times.