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Ensuring Fair Workers' Compensation

The vast majority of employers in Florida are legally required to obtain workers’ compensation coverage for their employees. This coverage is supposed to compensate workers who have suffered on-the-job injuries and illnesses. But unfortunately, many employers and their insurers hesitate to pay legitimate claims. Don’t let this happen to you—let our workers’ compensation attorneys in St. Petersburg fight for the benefits you are entitled to by law. Discuss your case with our attorneys today by calling 727-616-1210 to schedule a free consultation.

Attorneys at Carlson Meissner Law Firm on Workers' Compensation

Attorney from Carlson, Meissner & Hayslett P.A.

What Are Common Types of Workplace Injuries?

Some work environments are more dangerous than others, but work-related injuries can occur in any workplace. In the U.S., people sustain a wide range of injuries in the workplace. Some of the most common types of workplace injuries include:

  • Sprains and strains
  • Cuts, lacerations, and punctures
  • Broken bones
  • Repetitive motion injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Back, neck, and shoulder injuries
  • Burns

No worker is immune from suffering a work-related injury. If it happens to you, it’s in your best interest to seek legal representation from one of our workers' comp lawyers in St. Petersburg as soon as possible.

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Is My Injury Covered Under St. Pete’s Workers’ Compensation Laws?

It’s important to understand which injuries are and are not covered under Florida’s workers’ compensation laws. Each case is unique, but in general, workers’ compensation benefits are only paid for these injuries:

Accidental injuries

An accidental injury occurs in an unexpected and sudden workplace accident, such as a slip and fall in a warehouse or trench collapse on a construction site.

Repetitive motion injuries

This type of injury develops gradually over time as a result of performing the same movements repeatedly.

Occupational diseases

These are diseases that are directly caused by your work environment or job duties.

All three types of injuries—accidental injuries, repetitive motion injuries, and occupational diseases—are only covered if they arise out of and in the course and scope of employment.

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What Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits Will I Receive For My Injuries?

If you have suffered an injury that is covered by the workers’ compensation system, you may be awarded several types of benefits, including:

  • Medical care: Your employer’s workers’ compensation coverage will cover all of the medical expenses you incur while treating your injuries.
  • Partial wage replacement: If you have been forced to miss work due to your injuries, you are entitled to benefits that replace a portion of your lost wages.
  • Reemployment benefits: These benefits are awarded to workers who are unable to return to their pre-injury job due to their injuries. These benefits help workers find new employment.

The rules regarding the benefits you are entitled to, the amount you will receive, and the length of time that the benefits will continue are complex. To learn more about the value of your claim, speak to our workers’ compensation lawyers in St. Petersburg now.

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When Should I Hire A Workers’ Compensation Attorney?

The workers' compensation attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett represent clients at every stage in the workers’ compensation claim process. If you have been injured, contact our attorneys right away for help with your initial claim. We can protect your rights from the beginning to ensure you are awarded benefits as quickly as possible. If you submitted the initial claim on your own, you may be notified that the insurance company has decided to deny your claim. If this happens to you, it’s best to contact our attorneys before moving forward with an appeal.

The process of appealing a denial is complicated and involves negotiating in mediation, submitting written arguments, and presenting evidence before a judge. You will need an attorney by your side in order to reach the best possible outcome in your case. We have successfully appealed countless workers’ compensation appeals on behalf of our clients, so we know what it takes to win. Let us guide you through this process and aggressively fight for the benefits you and your family need.

Schedule A No-Cost Consultation With Our Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in St. Pete

If you have sustained a work-related injury or illness, turn to the trusted workers’ compensation attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett for help as soon as possible. For decades, our dedicated attorneys have helped injured clients in St. Pete secure the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve. Let us fight to ensure you are fully compensated for your work-related injuries. To schedule a free consultation regarding your case, call 727-616-1210 or fill out the form on this website.

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FAQ

How long after an accident do I have to report it to my employer?

What Should I Do When I’m Injured on the Job?

How much does it cost?

Do I have to pay any of my medical bills?

When should my employer report the injury to their insurance company?

What can I do if my employer will not report my injury to the insurance company?

What is the time limit for filing a petition for benefits?

How long after an accident do I have to report it to my employer?

According to Florida Statutes Section 440.185, you should report it as soon as possible but no later than thirty days, or your claim may be denied.

What Should I Do When I’m Injured on the Job?

To ensure you receive optimal workers' compensation benefits for your injuries:

  • Seek emergency treatment
  • Report your injury to your employer immediately or as soon as you can
  • Florida law requires that you report an injury to your employer within thirty days of it happening to be eligible for workers’ comp
  • Choose a physician specified by your employer to ensure they will cover your treatment

How much does it cost?

St. Petersburg workers’ compensation attorneys are paid on a contingency fee basis. Simply put, you don't pay any fees if you don't win any benefits.

Do I have to pay any of my medical bills?

Insurance companies are not required to pay for medical bills for injured workers, but they must cover them if a workers' comp denies your claim. This means you won't need to pay your medical bills out-of-pocket.

When should my employer report the injury to their insurance company?

Your Florida employer should report the injury immediately within seven days of their knowledge. The insurance company must send you an informational brochure within three days of receiving notice from your employer.

What can I do if my employer will not report my injury to the insurance company?

You have the right to report the injury if your employer will not. Contact the Employee Assistance Office (EAO) at (800) 342-1741 or e-mail [email protected]

What is the time limit for filing a petition for benefits?

In Florida, you have two years to file a petition for benefits.

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