Have you sustained a workplace injury? Then you should consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer post-haste. Read on to find out why.
About The Workmans’ Compensation System
Before going any further, let’s answer the question, “What is workers’ compensation?”
Commonly referred to as workers’ comp, this type of insurance covers expenses that may arise because of a workplace accident or disease, although keep in mind that the injury sustained needs to be a ‘physical injury’, not purely mental or psychiatric, for example, medical bills, lost remuneration, rehabilitation fees, and disability payments. It also serves to preclude lawsuits against employers when a worker is injured.
In the State of Florida, employers with four or more full time employees are required to maintain Workers’ Compensation coverage. An exception to this law relates to the construction industry. Because this sector sees a significant number of workplace accidents and injuries, businesses in this industry are typically required to have coverage for every worker employed.
While some employers fund workers’ compensation, it is most underwritten by an insurance company.
Why You Need a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
As you have probably guessed, it all boils down to money! No matter who is funding the workers’ compensation, big pay-outs shrink their profits. Therefore, any and every excuse is used to avoid paying you what you may otherwise deserve and need. You should hire a lawyer for workers’ compensation in the following instances:
- Your claim for benefits has been denied or delayed
- Your employer denies that your injury happened in the workplace or is caused by your work duties
- You have an underlying condition
- Not all your injuries presented symptoms right away
- Your benefits do not sufficiently cover your accident-related expenses
- Your employer or their insurance company disagree with you about your ability to work
- The employer-approved physician you first saw has released you to go back to work quickly or did not refer you to a relevant specialist
- Your employer has not secured appropriate insurance or has allowed the insurance to lapse
- You are unfamiliar with the workers’ compensation process.
If any of these apply to your claim, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney without delay. Even if you don’t envisage any problems, having a lawyer who concentrates their practice to workers compensation cases to evaluate your case and guide you through the processes offers you peace of mind and reassurance.