In Florida, numerous workplace injuries occur annually, affecting both permanent and temporary employees. However, due to insufficient legal guidance, many of these injured individuals make critical errors when filing for workers’ compensation.
These errors following a workplace injury can significantly impact the compensation received. If you or someone you know has suffered from a workplace injury, seeking advice from a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer at the Law Offices of Jose M. Francisco is crucial in securing fair financial restitution for your injuries and losses.
Below are several key mistakes that Florida’s injured workers often make after workplace accidents:
Not Promptly Reporting the Injury
A frequent error is the delay in reporting the accident to the employer. Florida’s workers’ compensation laws mandate that any job-related injury be reported within 30 days to a supervisor or employer. For occupational diseases, workers have 90 days from the onset of symptoms to report their condition.
Omitting Past Injuries
Failing to disclose previous workplace injuries is another mistake. It’s essential to inform the insurance carrier about all past injuries, no matter how minor they may seem. Non-disclosure can lead to compensation denial by insurance companies and may even be deemed fraudulent, risking repayment demands and loss of future coverage.
Concealing the Severity of Injuries
It’s vital to fully disclose the extent of your injuries to your doctor. Not reporting secondary injuries can be interpreted as an attempt to exaggerate claims and might constitute workers’ compensation fraud. Any additional symptoms, such as loss of motor functions or flu-like symptoms, should be reported.
Refusing Suitable Work
Declining a job offer, even with a lower salary, can be detrimental. The insurance company may view this as a voluntary income loss, leading to a denial of monetary benefits and potential job termination. Legally, you’re required to attempt the new job unless it contradicts your doctor’s restrictions.
Lacking Strong Legal Representation
Handling a workers’ compensation claim or a personal injury case against their parties without legal representation can be disadvantageous. Employers and their insurers often have skilled lawyers aiming to minimize or reject claims. It’s advisable to have experienced attorneys defend your rights.
Remember, insurance companies prioritize their financial interests and often seek to limit compensation. Navigating the complexities of employer claims can be challenging, making it wise to seek capable legal counsel, even in seemingly straightforward cases. Contact the Miami work accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Jose M. Francisco for a free case review. Our workplace injury lawyers will provide expert guidance, ensuring protection and proper resolution of your case.
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