One of your biggest concerns after you've been injured at work is likely whether or not you qualify for workers' compensation benefits. Florida's workers' comp system sets clear guidelines on who can receive benefits, which cover medical bills and lost wages. Understanding these qualifications is the first step toward getting the support you need.

At Van Dingenen Law, workers' compensation is all we do. With over two decades of experience helping injured workers across Central Florida, our dedicated attorneys will work with you one-on-one to evaluate your situation and determine if you qualify for benefits. We’re here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Workers' Compensation Eligibility Requirements

In Florida, several requirements must be met to qualify for workers' compensation benefits:

• Employer Coverage: Your employer must have workers’ compensation insurance. Most businesses with four or more employees are required to carry this insurance, and construction companies must provide coverage even if they have just one employee.
• Employee Status: You must be a payroll employee, whether full-time or part-time. Independent contractors typically aren’t eligible, but there are exceptions where legal representation can help secure benefits.
• Work-Related Injury or Illness: To qualify, your injury or illness must have occurred at work or be directly related to your job. While many cases stem from a specific accident, injuries that develop over time or happen while you’re on duty outside the workplace, like a business trip, may also qualify.
• Reporting & Filing Deadlines: In Florida, workers must report their injury to their employer within 30 days and have up to two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. Delaying beyond these deadlines can result in denied benefits, so it’s crucial to act quickly.

What Workers' Comp Doesn't Cover

Not every work-related incident qualifies for workers’ compensation. Claims are typically denied if the injury:

• Occurred while committing a crime
• Was self-inflicted or the result of starting a fight
• Happened while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Involved the violation of company safety policies

It’s also important to note that Florida workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning it doesn’t matter who caused the accident. As long as your injury happened at work or as a result of work conditions, you may still qualify for benefits.