As an employee in Florida, you are entitled to certain legal rights if you suffer a work-related injury or illness. However, navigating the complex world of workers compensation benefits can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial challenges associated with a workplace injury.
This is why you need the assistance of an experienced Lakeland Workers compensation lawyer.
At Work Injury Rights, we are a reputable law firm specializing in workers compensation law. We are dedicated to helping injured workers in Lakeland receive the benefits they rightfully deserve.
Our team of experienced attorneys understands the intricacies of the workers compensation system and is committed to protecting the rights of injured workers throughout the entire claims process.
Whether you’ve suffered a physical injury or an occupational illness, our team at Work Injury Rights will work tirelessly to help you obtain the maximum compensation available under the law. Get in touch with us today at 954-829-7077 or use the online form provided to schedule a free initial consultation and case evaluation.
Types of Florida Workers Compensation Benefits
When it comes to workers compensation benefits in Florida, there are various types of benefits that injured workers may be eligible for, depending on the nature and severity of their injuries.
At Work Injury Rights, we are well-versed in the different types of workers compensation benefits available under Florida law and can help you understand your rights and pursue the appropriate benefits for your specific situation.
Here are some common types of workers compensation benefits in Florida:
Temporary Total Disability Benefits
If you are unable to work due to a work-related injury, you may be eligible for temporary total disability (TTD) benefits. TTD benefits provide you with a portion of your lost wages while you are recovering from your injury and unable to perform your job.
These benefits are generally available for up to 104 weeks, or until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI), whichever comes first.
Temporary Partial Disability Benefits
If you are able to work but at a reduced capacity due to your work-related injury, you may be eligible for temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits. TPD benefits provide you with a percentage of the difference between your your current wages and pre-injury wages. These benefits are typically available for up to 104 weeks or until you reach MMI, whichever comes first.
Permanent Partial Disability Benefits
If you have a permanent impairment as a result of a work-related injury but are still able to work in some capacity, you may be eligible for permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits. PPD benefits provide you with compensation for the permanent loss of use or function of a body part, based on a statutory schedule.
The amount of PPD benefits you may receive depends on the severity of your impairment and the body part affected.
Permanent Total Disability Benefits
If you are permanently and totally disabled due to a work-related injury and are unable to perform any type of gainful employment, you may be eligible for permanent total disability (PTD) benefits. PTD benefits provide you with ongoing compensation for your lost wages, subject to certain limitations and calculations based on your average weekly wage.
How Are Florida Workers Compensation Benefits Calculated?
If you’ve been injured at work in Florida and are seeking workers compensation benefits, it’s important to understand how these benefits are calculated. Florida’s workers compensation system follows a specific process to determine the amount of benefits you may be eligible to receive.
Average Weekly Wage (AWW)
The first step in calculating workers compensation benefits in Florida is determining your Average Weekly Wage (AWW). Your AWW is calculated by taking your total earnings from your employer over the 13 weeks prior to your work-related injury and dividing it by 13. This calculation includes wages, salaries, commissions, and other forms of compensation, but excludes overtime pay and irregular bonuses.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits
TTD benefits are calculated at 66 2/3% of your AWW, subject to certain maximum and minimum limits set by Florida law.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) Benefits
TPD benefits are calculated at 80% of the difference between your AWW and your current wages, subject to certain maximum and minimum limits.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits
PPD benefits are calculated based on a statutory schedule that assigns a specific number of weeks of benefits for each body part and the severity of the impairment.
Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits
PTD benefits are calculated at 66 2/3% of your AWW, subject to certain maximum and minimum limits.
It’s important to note that there are additional factors that may affect the calculation of workers compensation benefits, such as cost of living adjustments, Social Security benefits, and other benefits you may be receiving.
The calculation process can be complex, and it’s crucial to work with an experienced workers compensation attorney, like the team at Work Injury Rights, to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits you are entitled to under Florida law.
Are Florida Workers Compensation Benefits Taxed?
Workers compensation benefits in Florida are generally not subject to federal or state income taxes or Social Security taxes. This means that the benefits you receive from your workers compensation claim are typically exempt from these taxes.
However, it’s important to consider other potential taxes, such as local or municipal taxes, and to seek professional tax advice to fully understand the tax implications of your specific situation.
It’s also crucial to be aware of the potential taxation of other related benefits, such as Social Security Disability benefits or retirement benefits, and to ensure compliance with tax laws.
Get in Touch with an Experienced Lakeland Workers Compensation Lawyer!
In Florida, workers compensation benefits provide crucial financial support to injured workers who have suffered work-related injuries. Understanding the types of benefits available, how they are calculated, and their tax implications is essential for navigating the workers compensation system effectively.
If you have been injured at work in Florida and need assistance with your workers compensation claim, it’s crucial to seek professional legal advice from a reputable law firm like Work Injury Rights. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the complex process of obtaining workers compensation benefits and ensure that your rights are protected.
Contact us today at 954-829-7077 for a free consultation and let us help you obtain the benefits you deserve.
