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Bernstein & Maryanoff - Florida Workers' Compensation Lawyers

People in Florida are injured on the job on a daily basis, and when this occurs the people who have been injured need to pursue workers' compensation benefits as soon as possible, which is their legal right under Florida law.  However, the workers' compensation system changed dramatically in 2003, and as a result of these changes that were not favorable to those who have been harmed many people need the help of experienced Florida workers' compensation attorneys.  Below is a brief introduction of how someone who has been injured on the job should proceed towards obtaining the benefits they deserve.

Take Immediate Action

If you have been injured on the job, you need to act immediately to make sure that your legal rights to benefits are protected.  The first step you should take is to request a Notice of Injury Form, also known as a DWC-1.  This form will basically serve as an incident report that you will need as you pursue benefits, so make sure to keep a copy for yourself.

Obtain Medical Attention

Whether your employer provides treatment for you or not, you'll need to obtain medical attention so that your injuries can be recorded and properly described.  Mention all of the symptoms you are experiencing while obtaining treatment so that nothing is missed and no confusion will arise later in the process.

Contact a Florida Workers' Compensation Lawyer

After the immediate steps described above have been taken, you should seek the help of experienced Florida workers' compensation lawyers.  The process of pursuing a claim can be complicated as it involves documentation with the state and perhaps working against your employer in certain situations.  Involving a Florida workers' compensation lawyer in the process as early as possible will help you to ensure that your claim advances and that your case is stated in the strongest terms possible.

Classifications and Benefits

After a medical determination has been made with regards to your injuries suffered on the job, you will be classified as temporary disability, temporary partial disability or permanent total disability.  This classification will largely define the amount and duration of the benefits you will receive, and many classifications can be inaccurate or even unfair to the worker.

Ultimately, the pursuit of Florida workers' compensation benefits can also involve vocational rehabilitation if the worker will be unable to return to the work that was being done before the injury occurred.  However, this aspect of the process can also be complicated and would be aided by the input and oversight of a Florida workers' compensation lawyer.

If you or someone you love has been injured on the job, you need to take immediate steps to protect your health and your legal rights.  In order to make sure that your claim is stated in the strongest terms possible, seek the help of Florida workers' compensation lawyers who have helped many clients obtain the benefits they deserved.  Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.