Worker’s compensation laws are quite strict. Case in point, an employee was driving a front-end loader at work when its brakes failed. He allegedly suffered various injuries when he jumped from the vehicle. It is of note however that this individual suffered at least four prior accidents that required medical care. Unfortunately the worker could not accurately outline all of the care previously rendered and or state what body parts were effected. Consequently, the insurance company raised a fraud defense. The Judge of Compensation Claims decided however that although the employee did not clearly account for all of his injuries and or treatment, there was no deliberate attempt to deceive the employer and its insurance company to falsely collect workers’ compensation benefits.
Florida’s First District Court of Appeals however overturned the Judge’s decision due to the worker’s inconsistent testimony that may have constituted fraud! An intentional misrepresentation prevents an injured employee from collection any type of workers’ compensation benefits and could further lead to criminal prosecution.
If you or someone you loved was injured on the job, you should consult with a Workers’ Compensation Attorney like Evan immediately. For your protection, it’s not wise to try and deal with your employer and their insurance company alone. Frequently they look for an angle to delay or deny your claim!
Workers’ compensation benefits are available to virtually all employees in Florida who are hurt on the job or while performing job related tasks. Sadly, oftentimes your employer does not even know the process of how to take care of an injured worker. In fact, threats and intimidation are common place to deter workers from making valid claims! Accordingly, one should seek the advice of a Florida Workers’ Compensation Attorney as soon as possible after the event in order to protect their rights. A workers’ compensation law firm, like The Law Offices of Evan M. Ostfeld, P.A. can ease your mind while leaving you the time to recuperate from the accident.
