Florida employers must provide insurance coverage for employees injured on the job. But it isn’t always easy for workers to obtain the benefits they deserve. That’s where a Pembroke Pines workers’ compensation lawyer can help.
At Garnes Law Firm, we know how to fight for the benefits you need to keep your life on track after a workplace accident. Our experienced attorneys have helped countless workers in Pembroke Pines and throughout Florida recover compensation to cover lost wages and medical expenses.
Schedule a consultation online or at (954) 905-2683 to fight the pushback you may face from your employer or the insurance company.
Pembroke Pines Workers’ Compensation Guide
- Why Choose Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Pembroke Pines?
- How Can I Receive Workers’ Comp in Florida?
- What Injuries Qualify For Workers Compensation Benefits in Florida?
- What Workers’ Comp Benefits Can I Receive in Florida?
- How Much Is Workers’ Compensation in Florida?
- How Can A Workers’ Comp Lawyer Help Me?
- Florida Workers’ Comp FAQs
- Garnes Injury Law | Pembroke Pines Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Ready To Help You Recover the Benefits YOu Deserve
Why Choose Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Pembroke Pines?
At Garnes Law, we don’t shy away from challenging cases. We have a long history of helping employees injured on the job recover the full extent of benefits needed to cover accident-related medical bills, lost wages, and future expenses.
Our attorneys take the time to explain each of your rights and what you can expect during the legal process. Whether seeking benefits for short or long-term disability, medical expenses, or compensation for a family member killed in a workplace accident, we are here to help.
We proudly support employees from all backgrounds and communities, offering comprehensive legal support in English and Spanish. We know how difficult the benefit claims process is and aim to make it as seamless as possible regardless of language or cultural barriers.
With flexible payment structures and contingency fee pricing plans, we can help you overcome the obstacles to receiving benefits without adding to your current financial burdens. Trust our law firm to advocate for you when facing the physical, emotional, and financial challenges of a workplace injury.
How Can I Receive Workers’ Comp in Florida?
It isn’t always easy to understand if you qualify as an “employee” and are eligible for benefits in Florida.
Generally, to qualify for benefits, you must have been injured on the job or suffer a work-related illness AND:
- Been employed by an eligible company, agency, or entity
- Reported the injury or illness to your employer within 30 days (if possible) of its occurrence
- Been seen and treated by an approved medical provider for evaluation and treatment
- Filed a claim with the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation within two years of the accident or onset of illness
While most workers in Florida are covered under the benefits program, some exemptions exist, including:
- Domestic Employees: Domestic workers who are employed less than 40 hours per week are typically exempt from coverage.
- Independent Contractors: Independent contractors are not considered employees and are not eligible for benefits.
- Farmworkers: Agricultural employers are only required to provide coverage if they have six or more regular employees or 12 or more seasonal workers working more than 30 days a year.
- Seasonal Employees: Seasonal workers employed in agricultural businesses may not be eligible for benefits if they work fewer than 30 days or earn less than $500 within a calendar quarter.
Contact Garnes Injury Law today if you are unsure if you qualify for workers’ compensation insurance in Florida. Our legal professionals can assess the details of your case and advise you on the best legal options for recovering benefits.
What Injuries Qualify For Workers Compensation Benefits in Florida?
If your injury or illness was sustained while performing duties for your employer, it is likely covered. The potential list is a long one, but common work-related injuries in Florida include:
- Repetitive motion injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis. While it may be in your job description to complete a task repeatedly, it is not right for your employer to disregard the negative consequences that can develop because of it.
- Fractured or broken bones resulting from workplace accidents, such as falls from heights or being struck by heavy machinery.
- Burns from chemical spills, electrical accidents, cooking accidents, and other sources of heat or chemicals. The injuries can range from mild to severe, with some requiring extensive medical treatment and even surgery.
- Sprains and strains from lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying heavy objects. These injuries are common in jobs requiring manual labor but can also occur in office settings if proper ergonomic practices are not in place.
- Cust, punctures, and lacerations from tools, equipment, or machinery. You may be eligible for benefits if you suffer any injury involving sharp objects while at work.
- Eye injuries from debris, chemicals, or other hazards in the workplace. These injuries can be serious, leading to partial or total vision loss if not treated properly.
- Back and neck injuries from lifting, falls, or other accidents in the workplace. These types of injuries can be long-term and may require ongoing medical care and physical therapy.
- Occupational diseases such as carpal tunnel syndrome, asthma, hearing loss, and dermatitis caused by exposure to hazardous materials or conditions in the workplace. These illnesses can develop over time due to prolonged exposure and are often covered under the insurance scheme.
Ultimately, if the injury occurred due to performing your job duties, it is likely covered. However, there are times when your injuries may not qualify, which may include:
- Injuries sustained while participating in horseplay or disobeying workplace safety rules
- Intentional self-inflicted injuries
- Injuries sustained while under the influence of drugs or alcohol during work hours
If you are unsure if your injuries qualify for benefits, contact our Pembroke Pines workers’ compensation lawyers today. They can review your case and advise you on the best legal actions to secure the compensation you deserve.
What Workers’ Comp Benefits Can I Receive in Florida?
Medical Benefits
In Florida, benefit coverage for medical treatment related to your workplace injury or illness may include:
- Doctor’s visits
- Hospital stays
- Diagnostic tests and imaging
- Surgeries and procedures
- Medications
- Rehabilitation services
You must seek treatment from an approved medical provider to be compensated for these expenses. Failure to do so may result in the denial of your claim.
Lost Wages Benefits
If your injuries require you to miss work while recovering, benefits may provide financial support through lost wages payments. These are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage at the time of injury, up to a maximum amount set by state law.
If you can return to work with restrictions or limitations due to your injuries, you may be eligible for temporary partial disability benefits, which cover a portion of the wages you cannot earn.
If your injury results in a permanent impairment, insurance benefits may provide compensation to make up for any future loss of earning capacity. This amount is determined based on the severity of your injury and its impact on your ability to work.
Death Benefits
If a loved one has died as a result of a work-related injury or illness, their dependents may be eligible for death benefits through workers’ compensation. This can provide financial support to cover funeral expenses and a portion of the deceased worker’s wages to help support their family.
There are strict eligibility requirements for these benefits, which include:
- The death must be directly related to a work-related injury or illness
- The dependents must have been financially dependent on the deceased worker at the time of their death
- A claim for benefits must be filed within two years of the date of death
The road to securing the benefits is challenging. With the help of our Pembroke Pines workers’ compensation lawyers, you can navigate this process and increase your chances of receiving the full compensation your family needs after the devastating loss of a loved one in a workplace accident.
How Much Is Workers’ Compensation in Florida?
Employees injured on the job are classified into different payment tiers depending on the severity of their injuries and the impact on their earning capacity. These tiers include:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Compensation for this payment tier is capped at two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage (AWW), up to a maximum of $1,197 per week. Benefits are available until the employee reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI) or can return to work.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): TPD payments may apply if an injured worker can return to work with limited capacity but at a reduced wage. The worker is eligible for up to 80 percent of the difference between their pre-injury and post-injury wages. TPD benefits continue until the employee reaches MMI or for a maximum of 104 weeks.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): If workplace injuries result in a permanent and total inability to work, the employee may qualify for PTD benefits. These payments are two-thirds of the employee’s AWW and are provided for life or until they reach the state’s retirement age.
- Impairment Income Benefits (IIB): IIB compensates employees with permanent injuries who can still work. Payments are based on the employee’s impairment rating, determined by a medical professional. For each percentage point of impairment, workers receive three weeks of compensation at up to 75 percent of their TTD rate.
Our workers’ comp lawyers can help you explore all options for securing the maximum amount of benefits you may qualify for.
How Can A Workers’ Comp Lawyer Help Me?
Experienced legal representation can help you overcome the obstacles and challenges of the complex process, such as:
- Proving your injury was work-related: A lawyer can help gather evidence and present a strong case to show that your job duties caused your injury or illness. This may include medical records, witness testimonies, and other relevant documentation.
- Meeting deadlines and filing requirements: Florida has strict deadlines for reporting injuries and filing claims. A lawyer can ensure all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and on time.
- Negotiating settlements: Insurance companies often offer a low settlement amount to resolve your claim quickly. A lawyer can negotiate to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
- Appealing denied claims: If your initial claim is denied, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and provide strong legal arguments to support your case.
Hiring an experienced lawyer means your case is handled by experienced legal professionals with extensive knowledge of the system, unscrupulous tactics insurers use, and the strategies needed to secure full and fair compensation for your injuries.
Florida Workers’ Comp FAQs
Can I choose the doctor I see for my claim?
In Florida, your employer or insurance company must approve the initial doctor you see for your work-related injury. However, if you are not satisfied with the treatment provided or the doctor’s diagnosis, you may be able to request a one-time change to another doctor within the same specialty.
How long do I have to file a claim in Florida?
In most cases, you must report workplace injuries within 30 days and file a claim within two years of the date of injury. If your claim is related to an occupational disease, you have two years from the date of discovery or five years from when exposure occurred to file a claim.
My workers’ comp claim has been denied. What should I do?
If your claim has been denied, you can appeal the decision. You should seek legal representation from a workers’ comp lawyer immediately to help you navigate the appeals process and increase your chances of receiving benefits.
Garnes Injury Law | Pembroke Pines Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Ready To Help You Recover the Benefits YOu Deserve
Getting injured on the job shouldn’t leave you in doubt about how you will support yourself and your family. Our lawyers at Garnes Injury Law are here to guide you through the workers’ comp process and fight for your right to receive fair compensation.
Contact a Pembroke Pines personal injury attorney online or at (954) 905-2683 to discuss your case and learn more about how we can help you recover the benefits you deserve.
Garnes Injury Law – Pembroke Pines Office Location
Address: 10796 Pines Blvd Suite 206,
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
Phone: (954) 905-2683
