In order for your workers’ comp case to have the best chance of success, it’s important to find an attorney who’s knowledgeable about the claims process as well as Florida’s workers’ compensation laws. In addition to contacting a lawyer right away, here are steps to take following a workplace injury:
Report the incident immediately: Inform your employer, and call the police if necessary. A formal accident report will help your case.
Contact the Florida Division of Occupational Safety and Health: Employers should report the accident. They are required to if there has been a fatality or an incident involving three or more employees where someone went to the hospital. If you are unsure the report has been made, call OSHA at (813) 626-1177.
Make a report in off-hours: If you were hurt outside of traditional business hours, make a report as soon as possible by calling the Florida State Capitol Police at (850) 414-8883.
Document everything: Keep track of when and where symptoms appear or an accident takes place. Visit a doctor and maintain detailed records of every medical visit and treatment. Also record loss of activity, such as household duties you’re unable to perform or activities you have to cancel.
While the above steps are important, having an attorney to help you with filing a claim will allow you to recover and receive all the benefits to which you’re entitled. Having legal counsel is also helpful in case your claim is denied or other complications arise.