What Benefits Can I Recover Through Workers’ Comp?

When you sustain an injury on the job, it can feel like a whirlwind of information, from seeking medical attention and attending follow-up appointments to filing forms and gathering documentation. However, despite the fact that you plan on pursuing a workers’ compensation claim, you may not know exactly what benefits you may be eligible to receive. As such, the following blog explores what businesses must carry this coverage and the damages you are able to fight for with the help of a Florida workers’ compensation attorney to guide you through this difficult process.

Do All Employers Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Generally, all Florida businesses with at least four employees, regardless of whether or not they are part-time or full-time, must purchase workers’ compensation insurance. These plans help provide benefits to injured employees. However, there are two significant exceptions to this rule.

Generally, agricultural businesses, which tend to be seasonal jobs based on the produce they farm, are only required to carry workers’ compensation if they have at least twelve seasonal employees or six regular employees.

The other rule regards construction workers. All construction companies, regardless of how many employees they have, are required to purchase and maintain this coverage. This is due in part to the fact that workplace injuries are much more common in the construction industry than in other areas due to the number of hazards these workers face.

There are a few main types of benefits you may be eligible for based on the circumstances and severity of your injuries. It is important to understand, however, that these are all classified as economic damages, meaning they are calculable and quantifiable monetary losses. You are unable to recover compensation for non-economic damages, as they are subjective and cannot be easily calculated. Non-economic damages include things like pain and suffering or mental anguish.

What Benefits Are Available for Injured Employees?

The first kind of benefit will help compensate you for your medical expenses. This can help cover the costs of medical appointments, surgeries, medical equipment, physical therapy, and hospital stays directly related to your injury.

Next, you’ll likely be able to recover a portion of your lost wages by determining your disability level. Generally, you’ll find that you can recover the following:

• Temporary total disability: Generally, if you cannot work for a portion of time because of your injuries, you’ll be eligible to recover up to two-thirds of your regular income for up to 104 weeks.
• Temporary partial disability: If you can return to work but cannot complete all of your tasks, you can recover benefits if you are unable to earn 80% of your income before the injury.
• Impairment income: If you have reached maximum medical improvement, meaning you are no longer able to make significant improvements in your condition, you will be subject to an impairment rating for which you will receive monetary value.
• Permanent total disability: Should your doctor declare your injuries so severe that they deem you are permanently unable to work, you can recover total disability compensation.

Finally, you’ll find that if the accident results in death, your loved ones may be eligible for death benefits on your behalf. This can cover the cost of funeral expenses, care for dependents, and even educational benefits for your spouse.

As you can see, workers’ compensation can be incredibly difficult to navigate. That is why it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with the Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore. Our team will do everything possible to help guide you through this process and fight for the best outcome for your circumstances. Contact us today to discuss your legal options.