If you’ve been hurt on the job, you may not know where to start regarding compensation for your wages or medical bills pertaining to your treatment and recovery. Most employers should have a poster or two in a common area of your work area that will highlight some of the steps to take. You can refer back to this if you are confused throughout the process. Where you will want to start, however, is with reporting the injury.
When Do I Need To Report An Injury?
In Florida, you have up to 30 days to report your injury to your employer, but don’t waste any time. Occasionally, you may not realize the injury needs medical attention right away, so this grace period can be useful. You will be able to ask your employer for an injury report form. If you wait longer than 30 days, your claim may be denied.
After You Report Your Injury
If it is an emergency situation, you may see the nearest emergency room medical provider that you can, and just make them aware immediately that this is a work injury – and keep your employer updated along the way. If you have time to fill out a report and submit it to your employer for review, they should give you a list of authorized medical service providers for your diagnosis and treatment. They will need to contact their insurance company within seven business days in order to start processing the claim. You will then receive further information from the insurance company – which you will direct your chosen medical care provider to bill directly for all of your injury-related treatment.
After The Insurance Company Is Involved
If you are out of work due to your injury as determined by your doctor for more than seven days, you are eligible for limited wage compensation as well. You can contact the insurance company about this, or contact us if you have any questions about the process or need support in fighting for your wages – which could be ongoing as long as you are out of work due to injury. We would be happy to fight for you!
