Sustaining a workplace injury shouldn’t mean that your financial stability comes into question. At GOLDLAW, we are here when you need a West Palm Beach workers’ compensation lawyer by your side. Our team understands the challenges associated with complex work injury claims, and we know how to navigate this system to help you recover compensation for your losses. Let us offer you a free consultation today.
Choose GOLDLAW for Your Workers’ Comp Case
When facing a workers’ compensation claim, choosing the right attorney is critical. GOLDLAW offers the experience, commitment, and legal knowledge necessary to ensure your claim receives attention from the people who can do something to help. We come with:
- Experienced Representation. We understand workers’ compensation claims in Florida. We also understand the insurance companies and we know how to fight back.
- Client-Focused Service. We believe in maintaining clear, open communication with our clients. Our team will keep you in the loop step of the way, answering questions that arise and providing updates on your case.
- Proven Results. GOLDLAW has a track record of successfully recovering benefits for our clients, even in complex cases where claims are initially denied or underpaid.
Workers’ Compensation Claims in Florida
Florida’s workers’ compensation system provides benefits to employees who job-related injuries or illnesses. These benefits can include medical care, lost wage replacement, and longer term disability compensation. Some key aspects of workers’ compensation in Florida include:
- Medical Benefits. Workers’ compensation covers all necessary medical expenses for work-related injuries or illnesses. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
- Temporary Disability Benefits. If you are unable to work while recovering, temporary disability benefits provide wage replacement, generally amounting to two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
- Permanent Impairment Benefits. If your injury results in permanent physical impairment, you could get additional benefits based on the severity of your situation and how it affects your ability to work.
- Vocational Rehabilitation. Workers who are unable to return to their previous job due to their injury may qualify for vocational rehabilitation services, including job training and placement assistance. For example, a construction worker gets badly injured on the job and can no longer do any physical labor job.
- Death Benefits. If someone loses their life because of a work-related injury or illness, the deceased’s dependents may be eligible for death benefits, which include funeral expenses and partial wage replacement for the family.
Can You File a Civil Lawsuit in Florida to Recover Compensation?
Florida’s workers’ compensation system is generally the exclusive only way for employees injured on the job to receive compensation, meaning that they cannot sue their employer for work-related injuries. However, there are exceptions to this rule where a lawsuit may be an option:
- Third-Party Claims. If a third party, such as a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer, contributed to your injury, you may file a personal injury lawsuit against that party while still receiving workers’ compensation benefits.
- Employer Misconduct. In rare cases, if an employer’s gross negligence or intentional misconduct caused the injury, a lawsuit against the employer may be possible.
- Defective Equipment Claims. If your injury was caused by faulty equipment, the manufacturer might be liable under Florida’s product liability laws.
A workers’ compensation attorney can evaluate your situation to determine if a lawsuit is appropriate, potentially increasing the compensation available to you beyond what workers’ comp offers.
What Will an Attorney Do to Help a West Palm Beach Workers’ Comp Claim?
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim without legal representation can be challenging, especially if you encounter delays, denials, or disputes. A knowledgeable workers’ comp attorney can assist by:
- Gathering Evidence. Attorneys collect documentation, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements, to support your claim and establish the extent of your injury.
- Handling Paperwork. Workers’ compensation claims require extensive paperwork, and missing a deadline or submitting incomplete forms can jeopardize your claim. An attorney ensures that all paperwork is filed correctly and on time.
- Communicating with Insurance Companies. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts. Your attorney will handle negotiations with the insurer, advocating for the full benefits you are entitled to.
- Calculating Benefits. An experienced attorney will ensure that all aspects of your injury and recovery are considered when calculating the benefits you should receive.
- Appealing Denied Claims. If your workers’ comp claim is denied, an attorney can represent you in the appeals process, increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.
Common Reasons for Workers’ Compensation Denials in Florida
It is not uncommon for workers’ compensation claims to be denied, often due to issues that can be resolved with proper legal guidance. Some of the most common reasons for claim denials include:
- Failure to Report the Injury Promptly. Florida law requires that work injuries be reported within 30 days. Failing to report an injury within this timeframe can result in claim denial.
- Disputes Over Work-Relatedness. Insurers may argue that the injury did not occur at work or was due to a pre-existing condition. Your attorney can help gather evidence to counter these arguments.
- Lack of Medical Evidence. Claims can be denied if there is insufficient medical documentation to support the severity or cause of the injury. An attorney can work with your healthcare providers to obtain the necessary records.
- Missed Deadlines. Florida’s workers’ compensation system has strict deadlines for filing claims and appeals. An attorney ensures that all deadlines are met, protecting your right to benefits.
Call a Workers’ Compensation Attorney in West Palm Beach Today
If you or a loved one has sustained a workplace injury, GOLDLAW is here to provide the legal support you need. Navigating Florida’s workers’ compensation system can be complex, but our experienced attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights. You can reach out to our team for a free consultation by filling out our contact form or calling (561) 222-2222.
