Simply defined, workers’ compensation gives something to a worker who is injured on the job. Workers’ compensation is not “insurance” but is social insurance such as unemployment compensation and social security. Under this system, insurance is generally purchased by your employer to provide you with medical care and possibly loss wages in case you are injured while working. The system provides coverage without regard to fault. Most employers are obligated to provide coverage to their employees and most employees are eligible for benefits.

In Florida, the law has changed continually since its inception in 1935.
The date of your accident will determine which law applies to your case. Currently, an injured worker is entitled to immediate medical treatment (including prescription medication) and sometimes loss wages, dependant on his or her injury.

The system is self-executing, in other words benefits are to take effect immediately following the reporting of the accident to your employer. After being injured the employer will send the injured employee to a hospital or walk-in facility, depending on the situation. Following the employee’s initial treatment, his care is coordinated by the insurance company, usually by the cooperation of an adjuster and a nurse case manager. When the hospital or walk-in facility recommends treatment or specialized care, they submit a request for authorization to the adjuster or nurse case manager who then should authorize and arrange all reasonable and necessary care. This process should go on so long as the employee continues to require medical care for the work related injury.

Your entitlement to loss wages depends on many factors. Please contact our office to set up a free appointment with one of our attorneys to discuss your case.