An accident at work can seriously injure your back, but a workers’ compensation attorney can help ensure you get the benefits you need.
Summary
- Back injuries are common at work and can be severe. Florida’s workers’ compensation system can help, but navigating the claim process is difficult without a back injury workers’ compensation lawyer.
- Workers’ compensation covers medical bills, lost wages, and disability benefits for work-related back injuries.
- If you suffer a back injury at work, seek medical attention, report it to your employer, and contact a lawyer to help with your claim.
- An attorney can handle paperwork, fight for fair compensation from insurance companies, and ensure you receive all the benefits you deserve.
Back injuries at work are very commonplace, but they can have a devastating impact on your life. The pain, lost wages, and emotional stress are often overwhelming. Florida’s workers’ compensation system can provide financial assistance, but navigating the claims process isn’t easy, especially when you’re trying to recover from a serious injury.
As back injury lawyers, we are familiar with the far-reaching consequences a workplace accident can have. At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, our experienced back injury workers’ compensation lawyers are invested in helping you secure a fair settlement.
We understand how workers’ compensation law works and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (800) 320-HELP or contact us online.
What is Back Injuries in the Workplace
The strain and stress of a workday can take a toll on your body, especially your back. From heavy lifting to repetitive motions, many workplace activities can lead to debilitating back injuries.
Common Causes of Workplace Back Injuries
Many people associate workplace injuries with dramatic accidents or hazardous environments. However, the reality is that even seemingly ordinary tasks can lead to significant pain and lost workdays. Acute or acquired back injuries can be catastrophic, limiting mobility and diminishing a worker’s quality of life.
Common causes of back injuries in the workplace include:
- Lifting heavy objects: Improper lifting techniques or exceeding weight limits can cause back strains, herniated discs, and other injuries.
- Slip and falls: Falls from heights, tripping hazards, and uneven surfaces can lead to back injuries.
- Repetitive motions: Performing the same motions over and over again can strain the back and lead to cumulative trauma injuries.
- Motor vehicle accidents: Work-related car accidents can cause significant back injuries.
- Falling objects: Being struck by falling objects can cause serious back trauma. You may even suffer an injury to your spinal cord.
If your job or work environment contributed to your back injury in any way, you deserve compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial disruptions it causes in your life.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Guide for Injured Workers
Workers’ compensation is a type of no-fault insurance that protects injured workers from medical bills, wage losses, and other potentially debilitating expenses. It usually applies to workers who were hurt during the course of fulfilling their job duties.
The no-fault aspect of workers’ compensation means that you’re always covered, even if your injury is partially your fault. Unfortunately, it also means it can be more difficult to hold your employer accountable if they caused the accident.
Workers’ compensation benefits typically include:
- Medical expenses: Coverage for all necessary medical treatment related to your work injury.
- Wage replacement: Partial wage replacement while you’re unable to work due to your injury (this is also sometimes referred to as temporary disability).
- Disability benefits: Income provided if your injury is long-lasting or prevents you from returning to your previous job.
- Vocational rehabilitation: Services to help you find a new job if your injury prevents you from returning to your previous occupation.
It’s important to understand your rights and deadlines under Florida’s workers’ compensation laws. Don’t wait to seek legal counsel–contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney right away to see if you are eligible to file for workers’ compensation.
What to Do After a Back Injury at Work
Back injuries are one of the most common workplace injuries. If you’ve suffered a back injury at work, here are some important steps to take:
- Seek medical attention immediately: Get a medical evaluation to document your injury and begin treatment.
- Report the injury to your employer: File a formal accident report with your supervisor as soon as possible.
- Document everything: Keep copies of all medical records, accident reports, and communication with your employer and insurance company.
- Contact a back injury workers’ compensation lawyer: An attorney can advise you of your rights and protect your interests throughout the claim process.
What Our Back Injury Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Can Do For You
At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we are experts in the laws and regulations that govern the workers’ compensation system in Florida. Our experienced back injury workers’ compensation lawyers can help you with every step of your claim.
Filing Your Back Injury Workers’ Compensation Claim
No need to stress about confusing paperwork or missed deadlines. Our team ensures everything is filed efficiently, allowing you to focus on healing. We’ll also gather strong evidence for your claim, including medical records and witness statements.
Negotiating for Maximum Benefits With the Insurance Company
Insurance companies are always reluctant to pay out claims because it cuts into their profits. They may employ shady tactics to avoid a fair settlement. We have extensive experience negotiating with workers’ compensation insurance companies and know how to make them play by the rules.
We’ll aggressively advocate for the full compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and future medical needs. We won’t settle for a lowball offer that leaves you with unpaid bills.
Accessing Medical Care and Benefits
We can help you understand your complex medical bills and make sure they’re covered by workers’ compensation. Our team can also ensure you receive all the other benefits you’re entitled to under workers’ compensation, including temporary disability payments and vocational rehabilitation.
Representing Your Back Injury Workers’ Compensation Case in Court
If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we’re prepared to take your case to court. Our experienced trial lawyers have a successful record representing clients in workers’ compensation hearings. We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. If you are pursuing a civil claim, we can also represent your personal injury lawsuit at trial.
Choose WHG as Your Back Injury Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
Any workplace injury is a painful and frustrating hassle, but back injuries are uniquely capable of disrupting your life. At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, our personal injury lawyers understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you’re facing after a back injury. We offer:
- Extensive experience: We have a proven track record of successfully handling complex back injury claims in Florida.
- Compassionate representation: We understand the burden of a back injury. We’ll fight for you while offering support throughout the process.
- Maximized compensation: Our skilled negotiators aggressively pursue the full benefits you’re entitled to under workers’ compensation law.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at WHG today. You can contact us online or call us at (800) 320-HELP.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to resolve my claim with the help of a back injury workers’ compensation lawyer?
The timeline for resolving a workers’ compensation claim can vary depending on the complexity of your case. In general, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several years, with an average of around six months.
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can give you a more accurate estimate based on the specifics of your situation.
Can I still pursue a personal injury lawsuit against my employer for negligence?
In most cases, Florida’s workers’ compensation system provides immunity to employers from civil lawsuits by injured employees. However, certain exceptions may allow you to pursue legal action against your employer if their intentional misconduct or gross negligence caused your back injury.
If your employer exhibited significant negligence or a third party is at fault for your workplace back injury, we can also help you file a personal injury claim against the negligent party. Our attorneys can evaluate the specifics of your case and advise you on the available legal options.
Am I allowed to choose my own doctor after a workplace accident caused my back injury?
Unfortunately, you will likely need to see the doctor your employer’s insurance provider chooses. This policy applies in most cases due to Florida’s workers’ compensation laws. The insurance company can also request that you undergo an independent medical examination with a healthcare provider of their choice.
These doctors essentially work for the insurance company and are often biased in their favor. Get in touch with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to make sure you receive fair treatment.
