Workers’ Compensation: A Benefit For Every Florida Employee
Brian O Sutter
Traffic Accidents
We wake up and go to work almost every day. Working is necessary to sustain one’s lifestyle. It helps us go through our daily lives and afford necessities. In terms of working hours, Americans are among the most hardworking. Recent data showed that the average length of a working week as of September 2019 was 34.4 hours. This average includes all employed individuals on private nonfarm payrolls. Aside from regular working hours, there are times when employees have to stay for overtime. Thus, working individuals sometimes spend more time at work than at home. During the time one spends in the workplace, several factors put employees at risk.
Accidents happen, and no matter how careful one is, he may still become a victim of one. Fortunately, there are existing laws to protect employees’ rights. However, this may vary from one state to another.
How does Florida Law Protect Employees?
The state of Florida has strict labor laws, which cover the determination of wages, notification rights, compensation for unemployment, and protection in the workplace. One benefit a Florida employee has is what we call workers’ compensation. Florida law requires employers or businesses to have insurance coverage for job-related injuries that employees may get. This benefit does not only cover accidents, but it also includes occupational illnesses that could have developed over time. Some work-related injuries are more common. So, every employee should watch out for any of these.
• Injuries on the eye, neck, back, knee or joints
• Loss of limbs
• Repetitive strain or stress injuries (carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, tendonitis, and the likes)
• Diseases from occupation hazards (lung disease, dermatitis, disfigurement, or scarring)
• Work-related heart attack or stroke
What Should You Do If You Acquire Injury Or Illness Due To Your Job?
The first thing you should do is to report the injury right away. Failure to report these incidents may cause to denial of your workers’ compensation. Thus, you should let the company or your immediate supervisor know as soon as possible.
You can keep track of everything that happens to you with the use of modern technology. Given that most phones have cameras nowadays, you can record everything related to what you are experiencing. If an accident occurs, ask a colleague to take photos of the place where it happened and the damages it caused.
Get immediate medical attention. Your employer or the insurance company may provide medical help. However, you do not have to wait for them to take action, especially if they are taking too long. You can choose your doctor. Or you can even rush to the emergency room on your own. Take note of all your visits. You should also keep all medical records safe.
Why Is It Important To Hire A Workers’ Compensation Attorney?
Although it is not required to have legal help to claim proper compensation, there are certain instances when a worker would need support and advice. Getting a work-related injury or illness is hard. What makes it worse is that some employers do not help their workers file a claim.
Like doctors, lawyers have specializations. Look for an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. It is best to hire a lawyer that is familiar with local laws. If you live in Florida, you can easily find the right one near you.
Aside from the time employees spend in the workplace, they also give dedication and hard work. Thus, employers and businesses need to have their workers’ best interests in mind. Unfortunately, there are circumstances when an individual needs to deal with legal matters. A reliable attorney will make sure you get what is right for you. He or she will help you investigate and determine if there are additional legal action you need to do. The right one will also help avoid the occurrence of any of the following:
• Getting less than the full value of the valid claim
• Unfair out-of-pocket costs
• Claim denial
• Accusations of fraud
Workers based in Southwest Florida can have an initial consultation with an attorney at All Injuries Law Firm, PA, without having to spend a single cent.