One of the most crucial aspects of securing workers’ compensation benefits in Florida is reporting your work injury on time. Waiting too long can forfeit your right to receive workers’ compensation benefits. That’s why it’s always recommended to report a work-related injury as quickly as possible.
How Long Do I Have to Report a Workplace Injury in Florida?
You are legally obligated to report your injury within 30 days of the accident date. If you suffered an occupational disease, you must report it within 90 days of experiencing your symptoms. Failing to do so within the time limit may result in your workers’ compensation claim being denied.
Who Do I Have to Report a Work-Related Injury to?
Generally, a work injury must be reported to the employer. But if your company policy states a specific person to whom you must report, inform that person promptly. In most cases, this person is either the manager or a human resources personnel.
Employer Responsibilities After a Workplace Injury
Once your employer has been informed of your injury, they must report the injury to their workers’ comp insurance carrier within seven days of the accident. They must also give you a copy of the report they filed with their insurance carrier. Managing the health and safety of workers is an essential part of workplace safety.
Following a workplace injury, employers should review their current safety policies to identify potential risks and hazards and address them effectively to make sure that these safety hazards do not harm other workers in the future.
Employee Responsibilities After a Workplace Injury
- Seek medical attention from a doctor authorized by your employer, and make sure to get documentation of your trip to the doctor for your workers’ comp claim. During treatment, tell the doctor that you were injured at work. You must also tell them about all the symptoms you are experiencing, regardless of how minor you think they may be. This will ensure that you will receive proper treatment and the specific details of your injury will be documented accurately.
- Report your injury within 30 or within 90 days of your accident (depending on the specific circumstances of your injury) to the appropriate individual.
- Make sure to keep every piece of paperwork related to your work injury, including your medical records and related medical expenses like medications, gas bills, parking fees, etc. Make copies of every document you’ve gathered. You can use this documentation to prove your injury occurred at work, which will be useful when you file your workers’ compensation claim.
- Discuss your case with a Florida workers’ compensation lawyer to make sure you take the necessary steps to secure the workers’ comp benefits you are entitled to.
Call Us Today When Reporting a Work Injury in West Palm Beach and Port St. Lucie.
Our Florida workers’ compensation lawyer at Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa can advise you of your legal rights and responsibilities and guide you on filing reports and forms that will be crucial to your claim. Regardless of your immigration status we can help you. Set up your free case review with our Florida workers’ compensation lawyer by calling 866-640-7117 or reaching us online.
Written by: Workers’ Compensation Director Marc Golden