Does Workers’ Comp Pay for Transportation Expenses in Florida?

If you were recently injured while performing your work duties in Florida, you may be wondering whether your worker’s compensation claim will cover transportation expenses.

Your accident may have led to pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages, but the impact can extend beyond these immediate consequences.

When you travel to and from medical appointments related to your injury, you may accumulate additional expenses that can add further strain to your finances. But does workers’ comp pay for transportation expenses in Florida?

In this blog, a work comp attorney from Lyle B. Masnikoff & Associates answers this question and shares what else you need to know. Call us at (772) 461-9181(772) 461-9181 to schedule your FREE consultation for help with your claim.

Transportation Reimbursement Under Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation in Florida provides coverage beyond merely addressing your medical treatment, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs when you sustain a work-related injury. Importantly, it also extends to include reimbursement for various transportation-related expenses.

According to the Florida Department of Financial Services / Division of Workers’ Compensation, your workers’ comp benefits may include coverage for “travel expenses to and from authorized medical treatment and pharmacy.”

These reimbursable transportation-related expenses include costs associated with mileage, parking fees, gas, tolls, and public transportation fares. So, whether you’re catching a bus or booking a ride with Uber for your medical appointments, these costs can be claimed for reimbursement.

However, it’s important to note that there’s a limit. Currently, the state sets the maximum reimbursement rate at 44.5 cents per mile. Therefore, always be aware of this cap when tracking your transportation expenses and preparing for reimbursement submissions.

How is Mileage Reimbursed?

After you’ve filed your claim, you will receive forms for mileage reimbursement in the mail. Feel free to send them back as and when you incur transportation costs for your treatment.

Alternatively, if it’s more convenient, you can accumulate these forms and submit them periodically or at the conclusion of your treatment.

The Impact of Your Transportation Choice

Your choice of transport can have a significant impact on your workers’ compensation claim in Florida. The state does permit reimbursement of transportation expenses for medical appointments, but it’s crucial to consider cost-effectiveness.

For instance, opting for a pricey taxi when a cheaper and equally convenient public transport option is available could limit your reimbursement.

Likewise, using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft can also get you reimbursed, but the expenses should stay within the state-set cap. So, think carefully and choose wisely when it comes to your mode of transport.

What If Your Employer Provides Transportation?

In certain situations, your employer might offer to provide transportation services for your medical appointments. In such cases, workers’ compensation won’t cover any extra transportation expenses you might incur, as the provided service is seen as adequate.

This could save you some out-of-pocket expenses and the trouble of arranging travel yourself. So, don’t forget to check if your employer offers such services post a work-related injury.

When Does the Reimbursement Process Start?

The process for claiming transportation expense reimbursements under Florida’s workers’ compensation typically begins as soon as these costs start to accumulate. It’s crucial to file for reimbursement promptly to avoid delays in compensation.

Keep accurate records of your travel, including dates, times, and distances, and remember to retain all receipts. This documentation is required to substantiate your claims.

If you face any disputes or challenges during this process, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney for work comp experienced in workers’ compensation law.

The Role of a Workers’ Comp Attorney in Your Claim

Navigating through the aftermath of a workplace injury is challenging, and understanding the complex nuances of workers’ compensation laws can seem like an uphill battle. Here’s where the expertise of a work comp attorney is invaluable.

Explaining Workers’ Compensation Law

One of the primary responsibilities of a work comp attorney is to clarify and simplify workers’ compensation law for you.

Whether you have questions like, “Does workers’ comp pay for transportation?” or “How can I ensure I receive all the benefits I’m entitled to?”, your attorney is there to provide answers, offering clear and comprehensive insights essential for your claim’s success.

Ensuring Compliance with Legal Obligations

A work comp attorney is also instrumental in helping you meet all necessary obligations under Florida’s workers’ compensation laws.

This includes assisting with accurate documentation of medical and transportation expenses, guaranteeing prompt filing of claims, and providing guidance through potential appeal processes.

Advocating for Your Rights in Disputes

There’s also a crucial role an attorney plays when disputes arise. Whether you’re dealing with disagreements over the coverage of certain expenses or facing challenges to your claim’s validity, having a workman’s comp attorney means you have someone to stand up for your rights and fight for a fair resolution.

Engaging a workers’ comp attorney goes beyond just securing legal advice. It’s about having an experienced advocate who will guide you, fight for you, and ensure your rights are upheld throughout the process of your workers’ compensation claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I do immediately after getting injured at work?
A: Notify your employer about the injury as soon as possible, ideally in writing. Seek immediate medical attention and make sure to mention that the injury occurred at work. Documentation of these steps can help fortify your claim.

Q: How long do I have to file a workers’ comp claim in Florida?
A: The Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation states that you have 30 days from the date of your injury, or from the date your doctor informs you that your injury is work-related, to notify your employer.

Q: Can I choose my own doctor for treatment under workers’ comp?
A: In Florida, the workers’ compensation insurance company generally has the right to select the treating physician. If you’re not satisfied with the care you’re receiving, you may be able to change doctors, but this usually requires approval from the insurance company or from a judge.

Q: What if my claim is denied?
A: If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. An experienced work comp attorney can guide you through the appeals process.

Q: What benefits can I expect from a workers’ comp claim?
A: Workers’ comp can cover various expenses related to your injury, including medical bills, lost wages, and transportation costs. The specifics will depend on your case and the nature of your injury.

Q: What if my employer doesn’t carry workers’ comp insurance?
A: Florida law requires most employers to carry workers’ comp insurance. If your employer is uninsured, you can report them to the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation and consider filing a personal injury lawsuit.

Q: Can I be fired for filing a workers’ comp claim?
A: Florida law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for filing a workers’ comp claim. If you’ve been fired, demoted, or otherwise punished for filing a claim, you should consult with an attorney for work comp as soon as possible.

Claim Your Right to Full Compensation Now

Facing an injury at work is challenging enough without the added burden of negotiating your rightful workers’ compensation benefits. Don’t let the complexities of the legal system or insurance companies deter your path to recovery.

It’s your right to receive full compensation, and our dedicated team is here to help ensure you claim it. As skilled work comp attorneys, we navigate these legal intricacies daily, advocating for our clients and ensuring their rights are protected.

No need to search online for a “workman’s comp attorney near me.” At Lyle B. Masnikoff & Associates, we bring years of experience to the table, working tirelessly on behalf of injured workers in Florida. Our experience allows you to focus on what truly matters – your health and recovery.

Don’t compromise on your rights. Reach out to us today at (772) 461-9181(772) 461-9181 for a FREE consultation. For your convenience, you can also connect with us through our online form here. Let us go the extra mile for you!

Copyright © 2023. Lyle B. Masnikoff & Associates, P.A. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Lyle B. Masnikoff & Associates, P.A.
1645 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd #550
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
(772) 461-9181(772) 461-9181
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7380 Sandlake Road, Suite 500
Orlando, FL 32819
(772) 461-9181(772) 461-9181
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110 E Broward Blvd #1700
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
(772) 461-9181(772) 461-9181
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Lyle B. Masnikoff & Associates, P.A.
543 NW Lake Whitney Place, Suite 106
Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
(772) 461-9181(772) 461-9181
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