Workplace injuries are a common and, unfortunately, often devastating occurrence. The good news is, there are always support systems available to help you through these stressful times.
Many people feel like they are at a loss when it comes to workplace injury claims. They may not know where to turn for help or what their legal rights are in this situation. And to make matters worse, filing a workers’ compensation claim can be confusing and frustrating.
Our legal team is here to help. We are experienced workplace injury lawyers who can guide you through every step of the process. We will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Contact us today!
REPRESENTING EMPLOYEES IN WORKPLACE INJURY ACCIDENTS
Have you been injured at work?
If so, we understand how difficult it can be to deal with a workplace injury. You may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. You may even be tempted to try to handle things on your own, but this is rarely a wise decision.
We get it; the process is overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. We want to make sure you receive the benefits you deserve after being injured on the job. So, we offer free consultations so you can learn about your legal options and get the help you need.
Making a claim for workers’ compensation benefits can be a daunting process, but with the Ligori Law team by your side, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. Our experienced workplace injury lawyers will guide you through every step of the process and will fight tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
FILING A WORKERS ’ COMPENSATION CLAIM
According to Florida law, businesses are required to have workers’ compensation insurance if they employ four or more employees (regardless of whether they are full-time or part-time employees). Workers’ compensation insurance will then (hopefully) pay for medical care, disability benefits, lost wages, and other benefits should an employee get injured at work.
So, if your employer has workers’ compensation coverage (which they should), you must follow these steps in filing a claim.
- Report your injury: workplace injuries can range from soft tissue damage to broken bones and traumatic brain injuries. And in terms of the workplace injury laws in Florida, you must report any job-related injury to your employer within 30 days of the accident occurring. Your employer must then report it to their insurance company within seven days of your report.
- Evaluate the extent of your injuries: once you have reported the injury, you’ll need to get it evaluated by a doctor that your employer or their insurance company has approved. However, you should also seek a second opinion from an independent medical practitioner. Your medical expenses will be covered by the insurance benefits you receive.
- File a claim: it’s better to file your claim sooner rather than later because there is limited time to file a claim. You’ll need to file a detailed report of your accident. Having a legal team assist you with filing a claim could be to your benefit.
- Insurance evaluation: once everything is filed, the insurance company will evaluate the circumstances and determine what benefits you are eligible for.
Unfortunately, in our experience, most insurance companies are notorious for using various tactics to get you to accept a low-ball offer. That’s why it’s important to have a workplace lawyer by your side throughout the entire claims process.
If your workers’ compensation claim is either denied or undervalued, an attorney can help you negotiate a better settlement.
Here at Christopher Ligori and Associates, we understand how difficult it can be to navigate through the complicated world of workplace injury and insurance law, so we are here every step of the way until you get the compensation you deserve.
Suppose there is sufficient evidence to prove that you have a valid workplace injury claim and the insurance company has unfairly denied or undervalued your claim. In that case, your workplace injury lawyer can file suit for legal action against the insurance company.
Filing a suit does not necessarily mean that your case will end up in court. The insurance company may wish to avoid an expensive legal process and attorney fees, so they are likely to agree to enter into negotiations. In these circumstances, our team of attorneys will ensure that you are fairly compensated for your workplace injury claim.
KNOW WHO CARRIES WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES
What if you are partially at fault for your workplace injury? Do you still qualify for workers’ compensation benefits?
There is a ‘ no-fault ‘ policy under the worker’s compensation system in Florida. In other words, it rarely matters who was at fault if you were injured at work, you will still be entitled to the workers’ compensation benefits.
However, you should note that there are a few exceptions to the rule. In terms of workers’ compensation laws, if the accident was a direct result of one of the following scenarios, you would forego your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits:
- you were injured as a result of starting an altercation with another employee or workplace visitor;
- you were intoxicated or under the influence of drugs when the incident occurred; or
- you staged the accident in order to commit insurance fraud.
Another consideration to keep in mind when it comes to worker’s compensation is that if you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits and you successfully file a claim, you are generally prohibited from suing your employers for damages caused by the accident.
You may, however, file a personal injury lawsuit if a third party was involved and contributed to your workplace injury. If this situation relates to you, you should get in touch with one of the Ligori’s lawyers.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO AFTER YOU HAVE BEEN INJURED AT WORK?
In the unfortunate event that you are injured at work, there are a few things you should do so that you have sufficient evidence to support your workers’ compensation claim.
- Seeking medical attention: even if the injury isn’t as bad as you think, sometimes the shock of the accident delays symptoms. So, rather consult a medical practitioner to assess if you sustained any serious injuries. Besides, you will have to do this for the purposes of the claim in any case.
- Gather evidence: a picture is worth a thousand words. If you can, or if witnesses are around to help you, try and take as many pictures of the area where you were injured. A photograph can provide evidence as to the condition of the premises when you were injured.
- Connect with witnesses: if anyone witnessed the accident, make sure to get their names and contact details.
- Contact a workplace injury attorney as soon as possible: get in touch with an attorney to help you file your claim and get the settlement you deserve.
SEEKING A WORKPLACE INJURY ATTORNEY?
At Christopher Ligori and Associates, we understand how important it is to get the help you need after a workplace injury. That is why we offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and determine the best course of action. We have years of experience helping people just like you get the benefits they deserve.
You may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, including medical bills, income replacement, and more. Let us help you get the money you need to cover your costs and move on with your life.
If you have been injured and need access to an experienced workplace injury lawyer, call Christopher Ligori & Associates at 877-444-2929 for a free consultation.
