- Workers' Compensation
One of the first things you should do after your workplace accident is meet with a Fort Lauderdale workers comp attorney. They’ll review your claim and let you know the odds of it being approved. They can also answer any questions you have about your claim.
In this blog, we’ll discuss five of the questions you should ask your Fort Lauderdale workers compensation lawyer. This way, you can make the right decision about hiring an attorney to handle your case.
1. Can I Still Receive Workers Compensation Benefits if the Accident Was My Fault?
If you get injured on the job, it doesn’t matter whether it was your fault. As long as your injury is work-related, you should be eligible for workers compensation benefits.
Of course, there are times when your behavior may preclude you from receiving benefits. For example, if you were intoxicated at the time of your injury, your workers’ comp claim may be denied.
2. What Can I Do to Protect My Rights After My Workplace Accident?
There are certain things you can do that will increase the chances of your claim being approved. Even if your claim is initially denied, if you protect your rights, your Fort Lauderdale workers comp lawyer will have an easier time with their appeal.
Some of the things you should do in the aftermath of your workplace accident include:
- Keep a diary of any doctor’s appointments you attend.
- Track any time you miss work.
- Take pictures immediately after your workplace accident.
- Talk to coworkers and see if they recall seeing you get hurt.
- Report your injury to your manager or HR department right away.
- Refrain from talking about your claim on social media.
If you do these things, your attorney will have a better chance of securing you the benefits you deserve.
3. What Will My Workers Compensation Benefits Cover?
If your claim is approved, you’ll receive certain workers’ compensation benefits. At a minimum, you’ll receive medical treatment for your work-related injuries.
This may include the following:
- Ambulance ride
- Emergency room visit
- Hospitalization
- Surgeries
- Follow-up doctor’s appointments
- Prescription medication
- Physical therapy
As long as your medical treatment is necessary, there’s a good chance it will be covered.
In addition, you’ll also receive weekly replacement wages. These will start once you miss eight days from work. Your weekly benefits will be equal to 2/3 of your average weekly wages.
Your attorney will first determine what your average weekly wages are. They’ll make sure all allowable income is included in this calculation. They’ll also make sure the calculations are done properly.
When you first meet with your Fort Lauderdale workers comp lawyer, make sure to give them a copy of your payroll records. This way, they can determine how much you’ll be entitled to should your claim be approved.
4. Can I Sue My Employer Instead of Going Through Workers Comp?
You generally aren’t able to sue your employer for a workplace accident. There are only a few exceptions to this. In most cases, your only recourse is through workers compensation.
You can, however, sue a third party who may have been partially responsible for your claim. For example, if you were hurt while using a defective piece of equipment, your attorney may be able to sue the manufacturer of the equipment.
5. How Can You Help With My Claim?
Your attorney will deal with the insurance carrier while you focus on your recovery. They will help guide you through the claims process.
If your claim is denied, they’ll help you file an appeal. And if your benefits aren’t for the right amount, they’ll also take action to correct this.
An experienced attorney should be able to discuss how they can help you through the workers compensation process. It’s also smart to ask an attorney to talk about their success in past cases and share testimonials from previous clients.
Contact an Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers Compensation Lawyer Today to Discuss Your Case
Even if you’re not sure if you want to hire a Fort Lauderdale workers comp attorney, there’s no harm in meeting with one. Our firm offers all new clients a free, initial consultation. This gives you the chance to discuss your case.
When you meet with a workers comp lawyer, you’ll want to make the most of your time. This is why it’s a good idea to have a list of questions ready. Once your lawyer answers any questions you may have, you can decide if it’s in your best interest to retain their services.
Simply call our office at 954-388-8616 to schedule your free case review.
