Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Miami Gardens

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Miami Gardens, Florida?

  If you have non-emergency inquiries in Miami Gardens, you may contact the local police station by dialing 305-474-6473.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Miami Gardens, Florida?

  The Miami Gardens Police Department Records Unit, where you can obtain reports in person at 18611 NW 27 Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL 33056.

• What should you do if your employer in Miami Gardens does not secure workers' compensation insurance for your injuries or denies your claim?

  If your employer fails to obtain workers' compensation insurance for your injuries or denies your claim, there are several steps you can take. First, identify the reason behind the denial, whether it's a delayed application, disputed injury, or your illness not being covered. Next, you can attempt to address the objections, file an appeal, and consider hiring an attorney. An experienced attorney can assist you in navigating the legal system and advocating for the compensation you rightfully deserve.

• What is the process of obtaining benefits after a work injury in Miami Gardens?

  A worker injured on the job in Miami Gardens can submit a workers' compensation claim to obtain benefits. This process allows them to receive medical and income-replacement benefits without the need to prove fault on the part of their employer or anyone else. In addition, workers' compensation claims tend to proceed much more quickly than personal injury cases, ensuring injured workers receive their compensation and medical benefits on time.

• Which jobs are considered the most hazardous in Miami Gardens and other cities in Florida, and what are the injuries that workers obtain from these jobs?

  The most hazardous jobs in Miami Gardens and other cities in Florida include those in the construction, manufacturing, material extraction, food and beverage, and transportation industries. However, it's important to note that workers in any industry can suffer an injury on the job. The most common causes of workplace accidents include motor vehicle collisions, exposure to harmful substances, workplace assaults, animal attacks, and falls.

• Which businesses operating in Miami Gardens are required to have worker's compensation insurance?

  Under Florida law, employers in Miami Gardens with at least four employees working under them must purchase this insurance to cover work-related injuries. It doesn't matter whether the employees are full-time or part-time workers. Worker's compensation insurance help employers pay for the benefits and expenses that an injured worker may be entitled to receive. However, sole proprietorships or partnerships are not legally required to have worker's compensation insurance.

• What are the consequences that Miami Gardens businesses could face for not complying with workers' compensation laws in Florida?

  Businesses in Miami Gardens that do not comply with workers' compensation laws in Florida may face legal penalties, fees, and a stop-work order. Investigators may conduct an audit to ensure compliance and impose fines and penalties for non-compliance. A stop-work order can also be issued if the business conceals an employee's duties, violates the worker's compensation insurance policy, or understates the company's payroll. Companies cannot resume operations until they pay the designated fines and penalties.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.