Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Hollywood, FL

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency police related matters in Hollywood, you may call 954.764.HELP(4357).

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

  Requests for incident reports must be submitted online through the Hollywood’s Public Records Center at https://hollywoodfl.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(p2zov3aj5knij1ehzxvodcw3))/supporthome.aspx.

• It is possible for an employee in Hollywood to select their own doctor for their workers’ compensation case?

  No. Hollywood employees cannot select their doctor for their workers’ compensation case because their employer or the insurance carrier are the ones allowed to choose the physician who will treat them. Employees who are unhappy with the first doctor or want a second opinion may request the insurance carrier to give them another.

• Should Hollywood employees pay for their medical expenses in a case involving workers’ compensation?

  No. Hollywood employees should not pay for medical expenses for a work-related injury. Their employer or the insurance company that provided the workers’ compensation policy should shoulder all medically necessary and approved care and treatments. Injuries that occurred since January 1, 1994, require victims to pay a co-payment fee of $10 per medical treatment visit after they reach the maximum medical improvement.

• What is an impairment rating, and how does it affect Hollywood employees with a workers’ compensation claim?

  An impairment rating implemented in Hollywood for workers’ compensation claims is the number a doctor assigns to the patient’s injury. This rating represents the percentage of the injury that the employee incurred on a certain part of their body. A medical impairment rating below 50 percent means the employee has a partial disability. Consequently, the worker may be eligible to return to work in a specific capacity.

• What types of Hollywood employers are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance to their employees?

  Hollywood employers who are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance are the following:

  • Employers in the construction industry with at least one full- or part-time employee;
  • Employers in the non-construction industry with at least four full- or part-time employees;
  • Employers in the agriculture or farming industry with at least six regular employees or at least 12 seasonal employees working for a minimum of 30 days.

  This ruling applies to government agencies, private companies, employment agencies, and public entities.

• What injuries are covered by Hollywood workers’ compensation insurance?

  Workers' compensation policies cover the majority of work-related ailments and injuries in Hollywood, including neck, shoulder, and back injuries and soft tissue injuries caused by overexertion or repetitive motion. Also covered are injuries from hazardous substance exposure, including carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains, strains, bruises, cuts, internal organ damage, vision/hearing loss, burns, psychological disorders, respiratory illnesses, strokes, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. In addition, injuries, including fractured/crushed bones, paralysis due to spinal cord injuries, amputations, and traumatic brain injuries, are also covered.

• 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.