Filing a Florida work claim can be difficult, even if you’ve had to do so in the past. The process is full of things that, if not handled correctly, can cause your claim to be delayed or even denied outright. Furthermore, an incorrectly filed workers’ compensation claim can actually make some benefits that you are already receiving go away entirely.
If you’ve been injured on the job and want to ensure that you receive the benefits that you deserve, then be sure to avoid these four Florida work-injury claim mistakes.
Reporting Your Florida Work Claim Too Late
When you are injured at work, you have a responsibility to report it to the proper parties. You need to report your injury to your employer within 30 days of being diagnosed if you want to receive benefits. If you don’t, you might lose the right to pursue the lost wages and medical benefits that you deserve. To protect yourself, you should submit a written notice to your employer and keep a copy of any relevant documents.
Refusing to Return to Work
The purpose of the workers’ compensation program is to give workers the financial assistance they need to help them get back to work. Thus you might be offered light work or a new position until you are healed enough to return to your original position.
After seeing a doctor for your injury, you must report what your doctor said about the type of work you can safely do until you recover. If your employer has work that is suitable to your work abilities and you are qualified to do such work, you must take the offer. If you don’t, you risk losing your benefits.
Returning to Work too Soon
On the other hand, if you disregard your doctor’s orders and return to work before you’ve been cleared, you might be risking your health and costing your employer. Your workers’ compensation claim eventually costs your employer in higher premiums, so it might seem like returning to work could help, but risking further injury or relapse is not a good idea. Furthermore, if you return to work after closing out your case and your re-injure yourself, you’ll have to reopen your case and risk further delays and lost benefits.
Will You Avoid These Florida Work Claim Mistakes?
Filing a work-injury claim can be confusing, but if you have the right people on your side, you can rest assured that you are going to get the benefits that you deserve. The first thing you should consider is seeing a doctor who is experienced in work-injury and workers’ compensation cases.
We know how to show causation between your injury and your job for your Florida work claim. If you want to learn more about how to get the benefits you need, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
