Florida Workers’ Compensation Lawyers | Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

Workers’ comp is supposed to protect workers who get hurt or sick on the job. But workers’ comp claims can be tough, especially when insurance companies deny or lowball claims. At Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys we know how to navigate the workers’ comp system for Florida workers to get the benefits they’re entitled to.

What is Workers’ Compensation in Florida

Florida workers’ comp laws require most employers to carry insurance for employees who get hurt or sick from work. This no-fault system allows injured workers to get compensation without having to prove the employer was negligent. But navigating the claims process can still be tricky and employers or insurance companies will try to minimize or deny claims.

Types of Workers’ Compensation Cases We Handle

Workers’ comp claims cover many types of injuries and illnesses. Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys handles:

1. Construction Accidents (falls, equipment)
2. Slip and Fall
3. Repetitive Strain Injuries (carpal tunnel, back)
4. Occupational Illnesses (chemicals, respiratory)
5. Industrial Accidents (heavy machinery)
6. Vehicle Accidents (delivery drivers, transportation)
7. Fires and Explosions
8. Workplace Violence
9. Amputations and Crushing
10. Head and Brain
11. Electrical Shock
12. Hearing

We handle all types of workplace injuries. Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys.

Florida Workers’ Compensation Cases

In the last 10 years, Florida has seen many notable workers’ compensation cases. These cases show why legal representation matters and how experienced attorneys can get you fair compensation.

1. Florida Construction Accident (2015)

A Florida construction worker hurt in a scaffolding collapse got a $10 million settlement after the insurance company denied his claim saying his injuries weren’t work related. The case proves you need legal help to fight unfair claim denials.

2. Industrial Accident in Miami (2018)

A Miami worker was severely injured due to lack of safety protocols. The court awarded $15 million because the employer was negligent. The case shows employers must keep workers safe.

3. Transportation Workers (2020)

A class action involving delivery drivers got a $12 million settlement for unpaid benefits for work injuries. The case proves gig and contract workers have it tough and employment status matters in workers’ comp cases.

2023 and 2024 Workers’ Compensation Cases

1. Warehouse Injury Settlement (2023)

In 2023 a Florida warehouse worker got a $20 million settlement after an equipment malfunction left him permanently paralyzed. The insurer denied the severity of the injury but with legal help the worker got fair compensation for his lifetime medical needs and lost earning capacity.

2. Toxic Exposure (2024)

In 2024 a $30 million verdict was given to a group of workers exposed to chemicals at a Florida manufacturing plant. This landmark case involved a lot of medical evidence and expert testimony showing the long term health risks of chemical exposure in the workplace.

Workers’ Compensation Challenges

Workers’ comp cases have their own set of challenges. That’s why you need an experienced attorney to guide you through the process. Some of the challenges are:

1. Employer Retaliation

Although it’s illegal, some employers will retaliate against employees who file workers’ comp claims by cutting hours, limiting opportunities or even firing them. An attorney can protect you from retaliation and let you pursue compensation without fear.

2. Insufficient Benefits

Insurance companies will try to pay out as little as possible. They’ll offer benefits that don’t cover medical expenses or lost wages. Keller Swan Attorneys negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair benefits – temporary disability, permanent disability, vocational retraining if needed.

3. Denial of Coverage

Insurance companies will deny claims altogether. They’ll say the injury wasn’t work related or was pre-existing. Legal help can provide the evidence to fight those denials and win the appeal.

4. Complex Paperwork

Workers’ comp claims require a lot of paperwork – medical records, witness statements, incident reports. Missing or incomplete paperwork can delay or deny claims. Our attorneys help clients gather all the necessary documents to support their case.

Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys will help you navigate these challenges, handle all communication with employers and insurance companies for you.

What to Do If You Have a Workers’ Comp Claim

If you have a workers’ comp claim, follow these steps to protect your rights and get a better outcome:

1. Report the Injury Immediately: Tell your employer about the injury as soon as possible. In Florida you have 30 days to report a work injury to your employer.
2. Get Medical Help: Get medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible. Preferably from a doctor on your employer’s workers’ comp insurance panel.
3. Document Everything: Keep records of medical visits, prescriptions and all related expenses. Take pictures of any visible injuries and get witness statements if possible.
4. Don’t Sign Anything Without an Attorney: Insurance companies will try to get you to sign documents that limit your benefits. Don’t sign anything related to your claim without talking to an attorney first.
5. Contact Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys: We’ll guide you through the claims process, handle paperwork and negotiate for you.

FAQ: Workers’ Comp Claim Questions

1. Why was my workers’ comp claim denied?

Reasons for denial include lack of documentation, dispute over whether the injury was work related or pre-existing conditions. An attorney can help you address those issues and appeal the denial.

2. Can I appeal a denied workers’ comp claim?

Yes, in Florida you can appeal a denied workers’ comp claim. An attorney can help you gather the evidence and file the appeal to challenge the denial.

3. What benefits are available under workers’ comp?

Workers’ comp benefits cover medical expenses, temporary and permanent disability benefits and sometimes vocational rehabilitation for workers who can’t return to their previous job.

4. How long do I have to file a workers’ comp claim?

In Florida you have 2 years from the date of injury to file a workers’ comp claim. But notify your employer as soon as possible (within 30 days) to avoid delays.

5. What if my employer fires me for filing a claim?

Filing a workers’ comp claim is illegal. If you’re retaliated against, an attorney can help you file a complaint and take legal action to protect you.

6. Can I see my own doctor?

In most cases you must see a doctor on your employer’s workers’ comp insurance panel. In emergencies you can see anyone, but you may need to switch to an approved provider for ongoing care.

7. Will workers’ comp pay all of my lost wages?

Workers’ comp typically pays a portion (usually two-thirds) of your lost wages. For serious or permanent injuries more benefits may be available.

8. Can I sue my employer if I’m receiving workers’ comp benefits?

In general you can’t sue your employer for workplace injuries if you’re receiving workers’ comp benefits. But if a third party (like an equipment manufacturer) contributed to your injury you may have a separate claim against that party.

9. How long does it take to settle a workers’ comp case?

Timeframe varies depending on the case and if an appeal is necessary. Simple cases can take a few months, complex cases can take over a year.

10. Do I need an attorney for a workers’ comp claim?

Not required but hiring an attorney can increase your chances of a successful claim especially if your claim is denied, delayed or has complex legal issues.

Workers’ Comp Claim Issues

Workers’ comp claims have many challenges. Insurance companies will try to:

• Not pay full benefits
• Delay the claim process
• Deny claims based on minor technicalities
• Inadequate Permanent Disability Benefits: Workers with permanent disabilities may find standard workers’ comp benefits don’t cover all their needs. Additional legal action may be necessary to get fair compensation.
• Medical Treatment Disputes: Employers or insurers may deny treatment, saying it’s not necessary or related to the injury. An attorney can help dispute these and get you the medical care you need.
• Delayed Payments: Insurance companies will delay payments which can be financially devastating for injured workers. Attorneys can speed up the process and get you paid faster.

At Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys we know these challenges and work to get our clients the benefits they need without delay or dispute.

Why Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys?

Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys help injured workers get the compensation they need for medical care, lost wages and other expenses. Our team has years of experience, empathy and aggressive representation for every case.

For You

• Thorough Case Review: We look at all aspects of your case from the initial injury to your long term medical needs.
• Tough Negotiators: Our attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies to get you a fair settlement.
• Trial Lawyers: If necessary we can take your case to court to protect your rights.

Get Started: Contact Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Now

If you or a loved one has been injured on the job don’t go through the workers’ comp process alone. Keller Swan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys can help. Contact us today for a free consultation and we’ll review your case to get you started.