How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Florida

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If you are injured at work, there are certain steps you need to take to protect your eligibility to receive workers’ compensation. First and foremost, you need to report the accident and/or injury/occupational disease to your employer within 30 days. Failing to do so could result in you being prohibited from receiving workers’ compensation benefits.

Read on to learn more about the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim in Florida, or reach out to Michles & Booth directly for a free consultation with an attorney at our firm. If you believe your workers’ compensation claim has been wrongfully denied, it is especially important that you work with a knowledgeable attorney who can help you appeal your denied claim.

We can be reached online or by phone at (800) 848-6168. Get in contact with us today to request your free consultation and case evaluation.

What to Do Immediately after a Work-Related Accident

Immediately after the accident, seek medical attention. You should let your medical provider know that your injuries are work-related, as you may need to prove later that this is the case. You may need to choose a medical provider from an approved list; be sure to check your employee handbook or the workers’ compensation notice posted in your workplace for more information.

After you have sought adequate medical treatment, you should report your work-related injury or illness to your employer. This report should be provided in writing. It is sufficient notice to report the accident to your direct supervisor. You can also report the accident to human resources. When in doubt, consult your employee handbook or report the accident to as many people as necessary.

You should report the work-related accident as soon as possible but no later than 30 days from the date the accident occurs or within 30 days of the date the doctor says you are suffering from a work-related injury. Failure to report your injury or illness within 30 days may result in your claim being denied.

Filing Your Claim with the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation

In most cases, once you have reported your injury to your employer, your employer will initiate the process of reporting your injury/illness to his/her insurance provider. However, if your employer refuses to do this, you may report the claim yourself.

If your employer does not have the insurance information posted, you may contact the Employee Assistance and Ombudsman Office for assistance with obtaining that information. You may also file your workers’ compensation claim directly with the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation; however, we recommend that you work with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney.

The Florida workers’ compensation lawyers at our firm can help you ensure that you meet all applicable deadlines and that your claim is properly filed. This can help reduce delays, as well as the likelihood that your claim will be denied. If your claim is denied, our attorneys can work with you to appeal the decision.

Reach out to Michles & Booth today for a free consultation: (800) 848-6168.