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Workers' Compensation Overview

Claims We Handle Workers' Compensation Benefits Florida Restrictions Denied Workers' Comp Claim What to Do Mistakes to Avoid Why Choose Carlson Hayslett, P.A. FAQs

Dedicated Clearwater Workers' Compensation Attorneys Fighting for Your Benefits

Florida law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation coverage for their employees. If you are injured at work, you should be compensated under your employer’s insurance coverage. But unfortunately, many people struggle to obtain the workers’ compensation benefits they are entitled to by law. That’s where our attorneys can help. The workers’ compensation attorneys in Clearwater at Carlson Hayslett, P.A. will aggressively pursue benefits on your behalf. Let us go head-to-head with your employer’s insurance company to ensure you are fully compensated for your workplace injuries.

Attorneys at Carlson Hayslett, P.A. on Workers' Compensation

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Workers’ Compensation Claims We Handle

Workplace injuries can happen in many different situations, leaving employees with medical bills, lost income, and questions about their eligibility for benefits. Carlson Hayslett, P.A., helps injured workers understand their rights and navigate the workers’ compensation claims process. Our team can assist with claims involving a variety of workplace injuries and disputes, including:

  • Construction site injuries
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Back and neck injuries
  • Falls and slip-and-fall accidents at work
  • Machinery and equipment accidents
  • Occupational illnesses
  • Injuries caused by falling objects
  • Denied or delayed workers’ compensation claims
  • Disputes over medical treatment or disability benefits

What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Will I Receive After A Workplace Injury?

The workers’ compensation system in Florida provides several different types of benefits to injured workers, including:

Medical care

The workers’ compensation system covers all medical expenses incurred while treating your work-related injuries. This includes expenses related to doctor visits, medication, special equipment, prosthetics, physical therapy, hospital stays, and more.

Wage replacement benefits

An injury may affect your ability to perform your job duties. If you are unable to perform your pre-injury job duties or unable to work at all, you are entitled to wage replacement benefits. These benefits are awarded to victims to help them make up for the income they are losing due to their injuries.

Death benefits

If your loved one suffers a fatal work-related injury, you may be entitled to death benefits through the workers’ compensation system. These benefits compensate surviving family member funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and more.

The amount of benefits you are awarded—and the length of time you will continue to receive benefits—will vary on a case-by-case basis. If you have been injured at work, it’s best to discuss your case with a workers' comp attorney in Clearwater to find out what type of benefits you are entitled to.

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I have now used this law firm twice now and I’m so grateful for everything done for me. I was facing a stressful situation in both cases, and they were professional, supportive, and truly fought for me. They were able to get my case handled promptly, and I couldn’t be more thankful. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a lawyer.

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How Does Florida Restrict Workers’ Compensation Laws?

Florida’s workers’ compensation system has specific rules governing who qualifies for benefits, which injuries are covered, and how claims must be handled. These restrictions can affect an injured employee’s ability to receive medical care and wage replacement after a workplace accident. Understanding the state’s requirements can help you avoid common pitfalls and protect your right to benefits.

Some of the key restrictions under Florida workers’ compensation law include:

  • Employee eligibility: Coverage requirements vary by industry, employer size, and employment classification.
  • Reporting deadlines: Injured workers generally must notify their employer within 30 days of an accident or within 30 days of recognizing that an injury or illness may be work-related.
  • Medical treatment: Injured employees generally must receive care from an authorized medical provider to have treatment covered by workers’ compensation.
  • Benefit limitations: Wage replacement and disability benefits depend on the nature of the injury, medical restrictions, and applicable statutory limits.
  • Claim deadlines: Florida generally imposes a two-year deadline for filing an initial workers’ compensation claim, subject to exceptions and other statutory requirements.
  • Disputed claims: Employers and insurers may challenge whether an injury is work-related, whether treatment is necessary, or whether an employee qualifies for certain benefits.

Carlson Hayslett, P.A., can help injured workers understand Florida’s workers’ compensation requirements, address disputes, and explore their options when benefits are delayed or denied.

Why Was My Workers’ Compensation Claim Denied?

Many people assume that all they need to do to obtain workers’ compensation benefits is file a claim. But unfortunately, many workers’ compensation claims are wrongfully denied by insurance companies that don’t have your best interests in mind. Some of the most common reasons why workers’ compensation claims are denied include:

  • The insurance company does not believe your injury is work-related.
  • The insurance company believes your injury is a pre-existing condition.
  • The insurance company believes you are exaggerating the severity of your injuries.
  • The insurance company alleges that you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident.

Finding out that your claim was denied can be frustrating and discouraging, especially if you need to obtain benefits quickly in order to make ends meet while you recover. If your claim has been denied, it’s important to exercise your right to appeal the decision.

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What Should I Do If My Workers’ Compensation Claim Was Denied?

Don’t let your employer’s insurance company get away with wrongfully denying your claim for workers’ compensation benefits. If your claim is denied, contact our workers’ comp attorneys right away to begin the process of appealing the decision.

The Office of the Judges of Compensation Claims (OJCC) appeals board will review your petition and notify your employer and their insurance company. The next step is typically mediation, where both parties will meet with a neutral third party, called a mediator, in an effort to reach a resolution. If mediation is not successful, a hearing will be scheduled before a judge.

You will not win a workers’ compensation appeal unless you can present a compelling case backed by legal research and evidence. That’s why it is in your best interest to have an attorney by your side during every step of the appeals process. We know how to analyze the facts, gather evidence, and build a strong case to prove that you should be awarded workers’ compensation benefits. We aren’t afraid of going up against insurance companies—in fact, we are passionate about helping injured workers win against these large corporations. Don’t. hesitate to contact our attorneys as soon as you find out your claim has been denied.

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Common Work Injury Mistakes to Avoid

After a workplace injury, the decisions you make can affect your recovery and your ability to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Avoiding common mistakes can help protect your rights and prevent unnecessary complications with your claim. Our team recommends keeping the following in mind after a work-related injury:

  • Failing to report the injury promptly: Notify your employer as soon as possible and follow the required reporting procedures.
  • Delaying medical treatment: Seek medical attention promptly, even if your symptoms initially seem minor.
  • Not following medical advice: Attend appointments and follow your provider’s treatment recommendations.
  • Failing to document the incident: Keep records of how the injury occurred, your symptoms, medical visits, and related expenses.
  • Giving incomplete or inaccurate information: Be honest and consistent when describing the accident and your injuries.
  • Ignoring claim deadlines: Missing required deadlines can jeopardize your ability to receive benefits.
  • Accepting a denial without reviewing your options: A denied claim may still be challenged, depending on the circumstances.
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Casey K. Carlson

Why Choose the Workers' Compensation Attorneys at Carlson Hayslett, P.A., in Clearwater, FL?

A workplace injury can leave you facing medical expenses, lost wages, and uncertainty about your ability to return to work. Understanding your rights under Florida’s workers’ compensation system is essential to protecting your financial security and accessing the benefits you may be entitled to receive. The workers’ compensation attorneys at Carlson Hayslett, P.A. bring more than 55 years of experience helping injured individuals navigate complex legal matters throughout the Clearwater area.

Our team takes a personalized, hands-on approach to every case, providing dedicated guidance and advocating for our clients’ interests. What sets our team apart includes:

  • Deep roots in the Tampa Bay and Clearwater communities
  • Extensive familiarity with the local legal system and workers’ compensation matters
  • Active leadership within the legal community, including involvement in the nomination of judges
  • Recognition from respected legal organizations such as Super Lawyers, Florida Trial Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell, and the Clearwater Bar Association

If you have been injured at work, you deserve clear guidance and dedicated representation throughout the claims process. Contact Carlson Hayslett, P.A., today to schedule a consultation and learn how our workers’ comp lawyers in Clearwater can help you pursue the benefits you deserve.

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Workers' Compensation FAQs

How long after an accident do I have to report it to my employer?

What Should I Do When I’m Injured on the Job?

How much does it cost?

Do I have to pay any of my medical bills?

When should my employer report the injury to their insurance company?

What can I do if my employer will not report my injury to the insurance company?

What is the time limit for filing a petition for benefits?

Can I file a workers’ comp claim if I have a preexisting condition?

How can a workers’ comp attorney help me?

What factors can disqualify you from receiving workers’ compensation?

How long after an accident do I have to report it to my employer?

Florida Statutes Section 440.185 says you should report it as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days, or your claim may be denied.

What Should I Do When I’m Injured on the Job?

To ensure you receive the most workers' compensation benefits for your injuries:

  • Seek emergency treatment if necessary
  • Report your injury to your boss immediately or as soon as you can
  • Florida law requires that you report an injury to your employer within thirty days of it happening
  • Choose a physician specified by your employer to ensure they will cover your treatment

How much does it cost?

Workers’ comp lawyers in Clearwater are paid on a contingency fee basis. You don't pay any fees if you don't win any benefits.

Do I have to pay any of my medical bills?

While insurance companies are not required to pay for medical bills for injured workers, they must cover them if a workers' comp denies your claim. This means you won't need to pay your medical bills out of your pocket.

When should my employer report the injury to their insurance company?

Your employer should report the injury immediately within seven days of their knowledge. The insurance company must send you an informational brochure within three days of receiving notice from your employer.

What can I do if my employer will not report my injury to the insurance company?

You have the right to report the injury. If you need assistance, contact the Employee Assistance Office (EAO) at (800) 342-1741 or e-mail [email protected]

What is the time limit for filing a petition for benefits?

Generally, there is a two-year period to file a Petition.

Can I file a workers’ comp claim if I have a preexisting condition?

Yes. You may still qualify for workers’ compensation benefits if a workplace accident substantially aggravates or worsens a preexisting condition. However, you may need medical evidence showing how your work duties or injury affected your condition. Carlson Hayslett, P.A., can help you understand your rights and determine what evidence may support your claim.

How can a workers’ comp attorney help me?

Our workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate the claims process, gather medical documentation, address disputes with your employer or insurance company, and challenge a denied claim when appropriate. We can also explain your eligibility for medical benefits and wage replacement, and help you understand the deadlines and requirements that apply to your case.

What factors can disqualify you from receiving workers’ compensation?

Several factors may affect your eligibility for benefits, including whether your injury is work-related, whether you meet applicable coverage requirements, and whether you reported the injury within the required timeframe. Certain circumstances, such as intentionally causing an injury or being intoxicated when the injury occurred, may also affect eligibility. However, each case depends on its specific facts and applicable Florida law.

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