Reporting Workers Compensation Injuries in Florida
An injured worker has an obligation to report a work – related accident within 30 days after he or she knew, or should have known, an injury in the course and scope of employment was sustained. Obviously, the sooner after the accident the reporting occurs, the better. If the employer does not immediately complete a notice of injury form, it is important to immediately consult with a qualified workers’ compensation attorney in Florida. The attorney can provide assistance in making certain a notice of injury form is completed and a claim established. Alternatively, the claimant can immediately contact the insurance company who provides workers’ compensation coverage for the employer to advise that an injury has occurred. By contacting the insurance carrier, the carrier will complete the notice of injury form even if the employer failed to timely do so.
Accurately Reporting Information to the Employer or Carrier
It is important that the notice of injury form contain an accurate and complete summary of all injuries sustained, as well as an accurate description of how the accident occurred. If the notice of injury does not contain an accurate list of all injuries sustained, it may become difficult, months later, to get coverage for a particular body part if it was not reflected on the original notice of injury.
Once the claimant reports the workers compensation injury, the employer has a period of seven days in which to notify its workers’ compensation insurance carrier. If you suspect your employer has failed to establish your claim with the insurance company, failed to accurately list all of the injuries sustained, or if you have not heard from an insurance company within seven days after you report your injury, please be sure to contact a workers’ compensation attorney in your area immediately.
If You Require Assistance Reporting Your Injury in Florida
If you have questions regarding reporting a workplace injury, or any other question involving workers’ compensation benefits in Florida, contact our office at 813-931-1145. The workers’ compensation lawyers of Christopher J. Smith, P.A. are prepared to explain the nature of benefits available to injured workers after successfully establishing a claim. We offer free in-home consultations, and there is never a fee unless we secure benefits on your behalf. Our attorneys assist injured employees with workers’ compensation cases in Tampa and surrounding areas.