When Is the Best Time To Hire a Florida Workers’ Compensation Attorney?

Sep 3, 2025

help for injured workers in florida, work compensation lawyerGetting hurt at work is stressful.

Not only do you have to focus on healing, but you also face the challenge of filing a workers’ compensation claim, a process filled with deadlines, paperwork, and rules that can easily overwhelm anyone unfamiliar with the system.

The truth is that one of the most important steps you can take after a workplace injury is to speak with a workers’ compensation attorney.

So, when is the best time to hire one?

The short answer: before you file your claim. Having an experienced lawyer involved early gives you the best chance of avoiding mistakes, protecting your rights, and getting the full benefits you are entitled to.

Filing Paperwork and Meeting Deadlines

Florida’s workers’ compensation system has strict rules about reporting your injury and filing your claim. Any missed deadline can seriously hurt your case. For example, you generally have 30 days from the date of your injury (or from when you first noticed symptoms) to report it to your employer. From there, your employer is required to report the injury to their insurance carrier.

Hiring a workers’ comp lawyer at this early stage can help ensure every document is completed properly, deadlines are met, and the insurance company doesn’t have an easy reason to deny your claim.

Attorneys are also skilled at navigating the complex forms and procedures, explaining confusing language, and advocating on your behalf if the employer or insurer makes things difficult.

Knowing Your Workers’ Compensation Rights

Unfortunately, many injured workers are denied the benefits they deserve. Sometimes this happens because the employer claims the injury didn’t occur on the job. Other times, the employer may not even have workers’ compensation insurance, or they may pressure the employee not to file a claim. In some cases, employees are even threatened with termination for pursuing benefits.

Having an attorney means you have someone in your corner who understands the law and can step in to protect your rights. Florida law prohibits retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim, and a lawyer will make sure you are not taken advantage of.

Can I Hire an Attorney After I’ve Filed My Work Comp Claim?

Yes, you can. While it’s best to contact a workers’ comp attorney before filing your claim, many people don’t realize they need help until after they’ve already started the process. Maybe your claim was denied, your benefits are delayed, or your employer is disputing how the injury occurred. In these situations, an attorney can step in, review your case, and fight for the benefits you should be receiving.

This is when hurt workers reach out to attorneys. Things seemed fine initially, but once valid claims are denied or money is delayed, people realize they just might need the help of a lawyer.

The earlier you involve an attorney, the better, but it’s never “too late” to get legal help.

What Kind of Injuries Can Result in a Work Injury Claim?

Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of injuries, not just sudden accidents. If you were injured while performing your job duties, there’s a good chance you are eligible.

Examples include:

  • Falls from ladders, scaffolds, or other heights
  • Broken bones or fractures from accidents on the job site
  • Repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Back, neck, or shoulder injuries from lifting or overexertion
  • Burns, cuts, or chemical exposure injuries
  • Illnesses caused by the work environment, such as respiratory conditions

The key factor is that the injury (or illness) is connected to your employment. A lawyer can help you determine if your injury qualifies and how to best document it.

Who Do I File a Work Injury Claim With?

In Florida, the process begins with reporting the injury to your employer. Once notified, your employer must report it to their workers’ compensation insurance carrier, who will then assign a claims adjuster to your case.

But here’s where things often go wrong: employers sometimes delay reporting injuries, fail to submit the claim, or give incomplete information. When you have a lawyer on your side, they ensure your claim is filed properly with the insurance company and that nothing is overlooked.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Work Injury?

Under Florida law, you must notify your employer of the injury within 30 days. Failing to do so may prevent you from receiving benefits. Beyond that, there is generally a two-year statute of limitations for filing a workers’ compensation claim, although there are exceptions for certain types of injuries or delayed diagnoses.

Because these deadlines are strict, waiting too long can cost you your benefits. Hiring an attorney right away ensures you don’t miss critical timelines.

Additional Compensation Beyond Workers’ Comp

Workers’ compensation is designed to cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, but in some cases, injured workers may qualify for additional benefits. For example, you might be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits if your injury leaves you unable to return to work long-term. Or, if a third party (such as an equipment manufacturer or subcontractor) was responsible for your injury, you may be able to pursue a separate personal injury lawsuit for additional damages.

A workers’ comp attorney will evaluate all possible sources of recovery so you receive the maximum compensation available.

Don’t Wait to Get Help from a Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Florida

If you’ve been injured at work in Florida, the safest step you can take is to contact a workers’ compensation attorney right away. From meeting deadlines and handling paperwork to protecting your rights and exploring additional compensation, an experienced lawyer ensures you don’t go through the process alone.

And if you’ve already filed but feel uncertain or overwhelmed, remember, it’s not too late. A lawyer can step in at any stage to fight for your rights and make sure you receive the benefits you deserve.

The Law Offices of Adam Baron, P.A. have represented hurt workers and accident victims for over 30 years. We understand how frustrating and challenging this time can be and we know how to help you through it. Our Florida work injury attorneys are aggressive when it comes to obtaining compensation and justice on behalf of our clients. We help injured workers all across Florida, including Miami, Coral Springs, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Delray Beach and many others areas.

If you were injured or became sick while working, we can help. Call Adam Baron at 954-247-HURT now for a Free, No-Obligation Case Review.

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