When you are injured in a job-related accident, there are steps you need to take in order to make sure that you are able to recover as fully and quickly as possible. This includes not only steps to ensure your physical recovery, but steps to ensure your financial recovery as well. While you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, filing a successful claim can be challenging; and, if you fail to take all of the necessary steps, you could end up without the compensation you need and deserve.
5 Steps to Take After a Job-Related Accident in Fort Lauderdale
Have you been injured on the job in Fort Lauderdale? If so, here are five steps you will need to take in order to protect your legal rights:
Step #1: Seek Medical Attention for Your Job-Related Injury
In order to file for workers’ compensation benefits, you need proof of the extent and effects of your injuries. As a result, it is important that you seek medical attention as promptly as possible. Under Florida law, you are required to see an approved doctor initially in order to preserve your workers’ compensation eligibility.
Step #2: Keep All Documentation Related to Your Accident and Injury
When you obtain medical treatment, ask for copies of your medical records, and be sure to keep your receipt. If you have documentation from the scene of the accident (i.e. photos you took with your phone), be sure to keep these as well. As you collect additional documentation, keep it in a file to give to your Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation attorney.
Step #3: File a Workers’ Compensation Claim with Your Employer
In Florida, you have 30 days to file a workers’ compensation claim with your employer. When filing your claim, it is extremely important not only that you file on time, but also that you ensure that your claim contains all of the information that is required in order to effectively assert your rights.
Step #4: Follow Through with Your Medical Treatment
As you move forward, you will need to follow through with your medical treatment and closely follow your doctor’s medical advice. If you are dissatisfied with your workers’ compensation doctor, you have a one-time opportunity to change medical providers.
Step #5: Be Diligent in Pursuing Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
In addition to following through with your medical treatment, you will need to follow up on your workers’ compensation claim as well. While your employer must process your claim in good faith and in a timely manner: (i) not all employers follow the rules; and, (ii) it is ultimately up to you to make sure you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.
Should You Hire a Lawyer to Handle Your Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Given the complexity and challenges involved in securing workers’ compensation benefits after a job-related accident, it is a good idea to hire a lawyer to handle your claim. An experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation attorney will be able to explain your rights in detail, guide you through the process step-by-step, and deal with any unexpected issues on your behalf.
Discuss Your Workers’ Compensation Claim with Attorney Joseph Maus
Joseph Maus is a Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation attorney who has decades of experience helping injured workers recover their losses. He provides free initial consultations and handles all workers’ compensation claims at no out-of-pocket cost. If you would like to speak with Mr. Maus about your job-related accident, please call 855-999-5297 or tell us how we can reach you online today.