Workplace injuries can happen in any job, whether you’re operating heavy machinery on a construction site, stocking shelves in retail, working long hours at a desk, or driving a company vehicle across Florida roads. One moment you’re focused on your work, and the next you could be facing an injury that disrupts your health, income, and ability to support your family.
Fortunately, Florida law has a system in place to protect workers when the unexpected happens: workers’ compensation. This system is designed to provide injured employees with medical care, wage replacement, and support while they recover, without the need to prove fault.
The experienced Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyers and team at DeGraff Hicks Law Group can help you navigate the process to secure the benefits you deserve. Call (321) 44-SHARK to schedule a free consultation.
What is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program designed to provide financial and medical support to employees who are injured or become ill due to their job.
In Florida, this system is governed by a no-fault principle, meaning that injured workers don’t need to prove their employer’s negligence in order to receive benefits.
Instead, as long as the injury or illness occurred in the course of employment, the worker may be eligible for coverage.
The Purpose of Workers’ Compensation
The primary purpose of workers’ compensation is to balance the needs of employees and employers. For employees, it ensures timely access to medical treatment and wage replacement when an injury prevents them from working.
For employers, it provides protection from potentially costly lawsuits by creating a structured system for addressing workplace injuries.
Employers’ Legal Obligation
Under Florida law, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
In Florida, employers must:
- Carry workers’ compensation insurance for most employees.
- Report workplace accidents promptly to their insurer.
- Allow injured employees to seek care from authorized medical providers.
- Provide wage-loss and medical benefits when an employee is hurt on the job.
- Not discourage or retaliate against workers for filing a claim.
If your employer fails to meet these obligations, a Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyer can protect your rights and help you pursue the benefits you’re owed.
Common Workplace Injuries in Cocoa Beach
Workplace injuries can occur in any industry, and Cocoa Beach’s diverse workforce is no exception. From construction workers building infrastructure to retail employees assisting customers, each industry carries unique risks.
Construction Accidents
Construction remains one of the most dangerous fields. Common injuries include:
- Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs.
- Crush injuries from heavy equipment.
- Electrocution from faulty wiring.
- Being struck by falling objects.
These injuries can be severe, often resulting in hospitalization, long recovery times, and permanent disability.
Retail and Service Industry Injuries
In Cocoa Beach’s retail and hospitality sectors, employees often face:
- Slip-and-fall accidents on wet floors.
- Back strains from lifting heavy boxes or equipment.
- Cuts and burns in kitchens or food service.
Though sometimes considered “minor,” these injuries can lead to long-term complications if left untreated.
Office-Related Injuries
Even office environments carry risks, particularly when employees work long hours at desks or computers. These include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome or other repetitive stress injuries.
- Chronic back and neck pain from poor ergonomics.
- Eye strain and headaches from prolonged screen time.
While these injuries may develop gradually, they can still significantly impact productivity and quality of life.
Transportation-Related Injuries
For employees whose jobs involve driving—whether for deliveries, sales, or company errands—vehicle accidents are a leading cause of injury. These accidents can result in whiplash, broken bones, or more serious trauma.
If you or a loved one was injured on the job, don’t hesitate to call our skilled Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyers today at (321) 44-SHARK.
What Benefits Can You Receive?
Workers’ compensation benefits in Florida are designed to cover the essential needs of injured employees. Depending on the nature and severity of your injury, you may qualify for several types of benefits.
Medical Treatment
Injured workers are entitled to all necessary and reasonable medical care, including:
- Doctor visits and specialist consultations.
- Hospitalization, surgery, and emergency care.
- Prescription medications.
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation.
- Mileage reimbursement for travel to medical appointments.
Temporary Disability Benefits
If you are unable to work while recovering, you may receive temporary disability benefits. These benefits generally provide about two-thirds of your regular weekly income, subject to a maximum limit set by state law.
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): For workers who cannot return to any form of work during recovery.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): For workers who can return to light-duty or part-time work but earn less than before the injury.
Permanent Disability Benefits
In cases where an injury results in lasting impairment, permanent disability benefits may be available. These benefits are calculated based on your impairment rating, as determined by a doctor, and may provide long-term financial support.
Vocational Rehabilitation
If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous line of work, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services. These can include retraining, education, or job placement assistance to help you transition into a new career.
Our Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyers fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury
Taking the right steps immediately can make a big difference in your workers’ compensation claim:
- Report the Injury – Florida law requires you to notify your employer within 30 days. Waiting too long can jeopardize your claim.
- Seek Medical Attention – Use a doctor authorized by your employer or their insurance. Treatment from an unauthorized provider may not be covered.
- Document Everything – Keep detailed records of your symptoms, treatments, and how the injury affects your work and daily life.
- Consult a Cocoa Beach Workers’ Compensation Lawyer – An experienced attorney, like the team at DeGraff Hicks Law Group, can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and ensure deadlines are met.
The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be—contact our Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyer today for a free consultation.
Common Problems with Workers’ Comp Claims
Despite the system’s intent to protect workers, many injured employees encounter obstacles when filing a claim.
Denied or Delayed Claims
Insurance companies often deny claims by arguing that the injury was not work-related or that proper reporting procedures were not followed.
Delays in claim processing can also leave workers without income during critical recovery periods.
Disputes Over Injury Severity
Employers or insurers may downplay the extent of your injury, arguing that you can return to work sooner than is medically advisable. This can put undue pressure on injured employees.
Being Forced Back to Work Too Soon
Some employees are pressured to return to work before they are fully healed, risking further injury.
Employer Retaliation
Although illegal, some employers retaliate against workers who file claims, through demotion, termination, or harassment.
Call an experienced Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyer today to schedule a free consultation.
How a Cocoa Beach Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help
Navigating Florida’s workers’ compensation system can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from an injury. This is where DeGraff Hicks Law Group comes in.
Guidance Through the Filing Process
Your lawyer will ensure that your claim is filed correctly, on time, and with all necessary documentation, reducing the risk of denial.
Challenging Denied Claims
If your claim has been denied, a lawyer can gather medical evidence, interview witnesses, and represent you in hearings to fight for your benefits.
Protection Against Employer Retaliation
An attorney can take swift legal action if your employer retaliates against you for exercising your rights.
Maximizing Benefits
A skilled Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyer knows how to assess the true value of your claim and will work to secure the full range of benefits you’re entitled to—whether temporary, permanent, or rehabilitative.
FAQs About Workers’ Comp in Florida
How long do I have to file a claim?
You must report your injury to your employer within 30 days and generally have two years to file a workers’ compensation claim in Florida.
Can I see my own doctor?
Typically, you must see a doctor authorized by your employer’s insurance company. Exceptions may apply in emergencies.
What if my claim is denied?
You have the right to appeal a denied claim. A Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyer can help gather evidence and represent you at hearings.
Do I still get benefits if I was at fault?
Yes. Florida’s workers’ compensation system is no-fault, meaning you’re eligible for benefits even if you contributed to your injury, as long as it occurred on the job.
Can I receive workers’ compensation if I develop an illness from work exposure?
Yes. Workers’ comp covers not only physical injuries but also occupational illnesses caused by toxic exposure, repetitive stress, or unsafe work environments.
Get the Benefits You Deserve—Call Our Cocoa Beach Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today
Suffering a workplace injury can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face the challenges of the workers’ compensation system alone. With the support of an experienced Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while a legal team ensures your rights are protected.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we are dedicated to standing by injured workers and helping them secure the benefits they deserve. Whether you’re dealing with a denied claim, medical disputes, or employer retaliation, we’re here to fight for you.
Don’t wait, call our Cocoa Beach workers’ compensation lawyers today at (321) 44-SHARK for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
