A workplace accident may cause you to suffer from a disability or illness. This disability or illness may make you eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits may cover your medical expenses, lost wages and other financial difficulties.
You may need to learn how you can file for workers’ comp benefits. Here’s what you should know:
Report your injury to your manager or employer
It’s crucial to report an injury to your manager or employer if you’re planning on making a workers’ comp claim. In Florida, a work injury typically needs to be reported within 30 days of the accident. Failing to make a report within the statute of limitations could lead to denied benefits.
Seek medical treatment
A medical report is typically needed to prove that an injury is impacting your work performance. Your employer may require that you seek a medical evaluation with a registered doctor who handles workers’ comp cases.
Make a workers’ compensation claim
A workers’ comp claim form may be provided to you by your employer. Claims must be made within 2 years to receive benefits. The form will require you to fill out important information, such as the nature of the injury, dates and times, a description of the injury, medical care and the impact the injury has on your job.
Review the decision
A workers’ comp decision isn’t immediate. You will likely have to wait for someone to investigate your case. The investigation will determine if the injury sustained is eligible for benefits. You may not hear about the decision made until a few months after filing a claim. You could start receiving benefits shortly after approval.
Filing for workers’ comp doesn’t guarantee you benefits. Many people have filed and been denied workers’ comp benefits. If your claim is denied, you have the right to make an appeal. Appealing a workers’ comp decision may require extensive legal knowledge. You may benefit from reaching out for legal help to learn about your options.