Traumatic Brain Injury Workers’ Compensation In Florida FAQ
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious workplace safety concern. It can change your life forever when you suffer such an injury at your job. When facing this, you deserve an ally who understands your situation and is ready to stand by your side.
The attorney at The Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore is here for workers who are pursuing answers to their questions about workers’ compensation for workplace TBIs. Lawyer Kevin A. Moore has a proven track record and a dedication to helping injured workers. He is ready to advocate for you at every stage of your case.
What Is A TBI?
A TBI occurs when an external force causes injury to the brain. Such an injury can be either:
- Open/penetrating: When the force breaks the skull
- Closed/nonpenetrating: When the force shakes the brain without breaking the skull
These injuries can vary considerably in their severity.
What Are Common Workplace Causes Of TBIs?
TBIs generally qualify for workers’ comp if they are work related. Common causes of TBI in the workplace include:
- Falls from heights
- Falling objects
- Equipment malfunctions
- Explosions
- Vehicle-related accidents
If you’ve experienced a TBI in a workplace accident, Kevin can help you navigate your workers’ comp claim.
What Are Some Red Flags Of TBIs To Watch For?
TBIs may not be immediately apparent. Symptoms to watch for after a workplace incident involving head trauma include:
- Persistent headaches
- Confusion or memory issues
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Sensory disturbances
- Behavioral or mood changes
If you suspect that you suffered a brain injury at work, then it is crucial to seek medical attention. It is also important to take steps to protect your rights related to medical treatment workers’ comp benefits.
How Can A Lawyer Help To Address The Long-Term Impacts Of TBIs?
A TBI can have far-reaching effects on your life, including:
- Physical impairments
- Behavioral changes
- Cognitive difficulties
- Sensory loss
- Emotional challenges
Workers’ comp benefits could help you cope with long-term effects by covering medical treatment and compensating for lost wages. Pursuing such benefits can involve challenges, but you don’t have to try to overcome them alone. As an experienced workers’ compensation attorney, Kevin can stand up for your rights and fight for the full benefits you need.
What is the time limit for filing a workers’ compensation claim for a traumatic brain injury in Florida?
Under Florida law, you have four years from the date of the incident to file a workers’ compensation claim for a traumatic brain injury. Acting promptly helps to protect your workers’ compensation rights and receive the injury benefits you are due.
What types of benefits can I receive for a traumatic brain injury through Florida’s workers’ compensation system?
The Florida workers’ compensation system provides several benefits to address traumatic brain and other workplace injuries, including:
- Medical benefits: Coverage for necessary medical care related to your injury, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy and medication.
- Wage replacement: If unable to work for more than seven days, you may receive wage replacement benefits, typically just over 66% of your average weekly wages.
- Permanent disability benefits: If your traumatic brain injury leads to permanent impairment, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
Other benefits can include reimbursement of travel expenses for medical appointments, and death benefits for dependents in case of a fatality.
Can I choose my own doctor for treatment of a work-related traumatic brain injury in Florida?
Generally, you cannot choose your own doctor under Florida workers’ compensation laws. Instead, you must seek treatment from an authorized health care provider approved by your employer or their insurance carrier.
What if my traumatic brain injury prevents me from returning to my previous job?
You may qualify for vocational rehabilitation to help you find new employment that accommodates your condition if your brain injury interferes with your prior job. Additionally, permanent disability benefits are possible if your injury results in long-term impairments.
Can I receive compensation for the long-term effects of a traumatic brain injury, such as cognitive impairment or personality changes?
Yes, compensation for the long-term effects of a traumatic brain injury, including cognitive impairment and personality changes, may be available. These are considered permanent impairments and may qualify you for the permanent disability benefits mentioned above.
Get Experienced Guidance From A Florida Attorney
Since traumatic brain injuries can impact your entire life, you need an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer.
I am attorney Kevin A. Moore, and with offices in Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Orlando, I am positioned to help, regardless of your location. Call The Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore at 844-538-6580 or contact me online for a free consultation.