What Documents Do I Need for a FL Workers’ Comp Claim?

If you have sustained an injury on the job, it’s important to understand that filing a workers’ compensation claim is the avenue you must pursue to recover the compensation you deserve. However, this is a document-heavy process, as you’ll need a considerable amount of information to fight for the justice you are entitled to. If you’re unsure what documents you’ll need, the following blog goes into further detail on these matters, including the importance of working with a Florida workers’ compensation attorney to assist you through this process.

What Should I Do After a Workplace Accident in Florida?

Following an accident at your Florida workplace, it’s critical to take the necessary steps to best protect yourself in the event you wish to file a claim for compensation through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. As such, the first thing you should do is seek medical care. In Florida, you are required to see a doctor approved by your employer. You should report the accident to your employer as soon as possible and request the name of approved providers so you can get care immediately. However, if the injuries you’ve sustained are urgent, you should go to the emergency room for care.

If possible, you should also take photos and videos of the accident scene. This can help provide important proof and evidence for your claim. If you are physically unable to take pictures of your accident scene, you may want to ask a co-worker to take photos and videos.

Once you have sought care, you’ll need to file an incident report with your employer. This essentially allows you to formally report the details of the accident, including a description of the event, when and where it occurred, and the injuries you’ve sustained as a result.

What Documents Do I Need to File a Claim?

When you file a claim, it’s important to understand that the more evidence and documentation you can provide regarding your injuries, the better. Generally, one of the most important sets of documents you’ll need to have on hand is your medical records. Not only can this help show that you sought care, but it also shows X-rays, imaging, records, and doctor’s notes related to your injuries, thus showcasing the extent of your damages. You should also gather all medical bills you’ve incurred as a result of the accident, including hospital bills, the cost of prescriptions, and any expenses for medical equipment you require.

You should also include any evidence gathered at the time of the accident, like photos, videos, and witness statements. If you have co-workers who saw the incident occur, they should provide their contact information and a detailed description of their point of view of the accident.

In addition, you should retain all copies of emails, letters, and text messages exchanged between you, your employer, their insurance company, and your healthcare provider. These can provide important insight and context into your injury and the claims process. Additionally, you should keep detailed logs any time you make a phone call, including who you are speaking with, the date and time of the call, and a description of the matters discussed.

As you can see, navigating a workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming, as you’ll need a considerable amount of documentation. However, when you work with an experienced attorney at the Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore, our team can help guide you through these difficult times to fight for the best possible outcome. If you’re ready to fight for the justice you deserve, contact our firm today.