- Workers' Compensation
Workers compensation is a program enforced by the government that offers benefits to employees who suffer injuries or illnesses while performing their job duties. Essentially, it acts as a disability insurance program for workers, providing monetary benefits, healthcare benefits, or both to those who experience health issues directly related to their work.
Coral Gables workers comp lawyers play a vital role in helping you obtain the benefits you deserve.
The Role of Workers Compensation Lawyers
When you suffer an injury while performing your job, you typically can’t sue your employer directly. Instead, the workers compensation insurance provider of your employer should provide you with compensation for your injuries.
Coral Gables workers comp lawyers help employees with filing claims, represent workers in disputes with insurance companies, and assist with the appeal process when a claim is denied.
When to Hire a Coral Gables Workers Comp Lawyer
To ensure your rights are fully protected and you receive adequate compensation for your work injury, it’s advisable to seek legal representation. Legal assistance becomes particularly important in the following scenarios:
- Your claim is contested or rejected by your employer or their insurance provider.
- Your injuries are severe, life-changing, and/or permanent.
- You’re uncertain if a settlement offer is just or not.
- You’re unable to reach a workers comp settlement agreement with the insurer.
The role of a workers comp lawyer is to safeguard your rights and ensure you navigate the workers comp system effectively to maximize the compensation you receive for your injuries.
How Much Will a Workers Comp Lawyer Cost?
Lawyers specializing in workers compensation typically represent you on a contingency fee basis when you’ve been injured at work. This means that your lawyer will only receive payment if you successfully secure compensation. If you don’t receive any monetary compensation for your work-related injuries, you won’t be required to pay any legal fees for your attorney’s services.
Florida law establishes a tiered schedule for the maximum fees that attorneys may receive in workers compensation cases. These fees are regulated by Florida Statutes 440.34.
The fee scale is as follows:
- Attorneys can charge 20% of the first $5,000 of benefits secured.
- They can charge 15% of the next $5,000 of benefits secured.
- For all benefits obtained over $10,000, they can charge 10%.
The actual attorney fees can be less than these amounts. Furthermore, the Office of the Judges of Compensation Claims (OJCC) may approve a fee that deviates from these guidelines if it can be justified by unusual circumstances.
Choosing the Right Workers Compensation Lawyer
Choosing the right lawyer can be critical to the outcome of your case. Here are some tips on how to choose the right workers compensation lawyer:
- Look for a lawyer who specializes in the field.
- Ask friends and family for recommendations.
- Research lawyers online.
- Meet with several lawyers in person.
- Ask about the lawyer’s experience and background.
- Decide what’s important to you in a workers compensation attorney.
Remember, no workers comp lawyer can claim to be the “best.” What makes the “best workers comp lawyer” depends on factors such as experience, settlement rate, and communication style.
How a Coral Gables Workers Comp Lawyer Can Assist
A workers compensation lawyer can assist in several key ways.
Communicating with the Workers Comp Insurer
Your lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance company, ensuring that your rights are protected.
Gathering Medical Evidence
A crucial part of any workers comp claim is proving that your injury or illness is work-related. Your lawyer can help gather and organize the necessary medical records and evidence, and can also arrange for medical examinations if needed.
Negotiating Settlements
If a settlement is an option, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits possible.
Representing You at Hearings
If your claim is denied or disputed, your lawyer will represent you at all hearings and appeals, presenting evidence and arguing on your behalf.
Filing and Managing Your Claim
From filing the initial claim to handling any necessary appeals, your lawyer will manage all aspects of your workers comp claim process.
Call Today for a Free Consultation!
If you’ve suffered an injury at work, navigating the workers compensation process can be challenging. Contact our team at WorkInjuryRights.com for a free consultation today.
We help employees across Florida get workers comp benefits after all types of workplace injuries, including those related to back and spine injuries, as well as accidents occurring on construction sites.
Contact us at 954-829-7077 to get the assistance you require.