Matheson and HorowitzMatheson and Horowitz2026-05-29T10:31:30Zhttps://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1604958/2025/04/cropped-Matheson_Horowitz_site_icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[Work in Florida healthcare? Watch out for common on-the-job injuries]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=480222026-05-29T10:31:30Z2026-05-29T10:31:30ZFor how important healthcare workers are, they face many risks at work that many people may not be aware of. They move fast, lift often and face hazards that change by the hour. A single shift can cause strain to the back or expose one to blood and sharp tools. Long weeks raise the risk of slips, needlesticks and violent incidents. By planning for those risks, you can protect your health and your paycheck.
Risks healthcare workers regularly face
Healthcare settings pack tight spaces, heavy lifts and urgent tasks. That mix can cause sudden harm or slow wear and tear. Keep these risks on your radar:
Patient handling strains: Lifts and transfers can hit your back, shoulder and knee even with a team assist.
Slips and trips: Wet floors, cords and cluttered halls can lead to falls that injure hips, wrists or heads.
Workplace violence: Agitated patients or visitors can cause bruises, strains or head injuries.
Repetitive stress: Charting, scanning and constant gripping can inflame wrists, thumbs and elbows.
Chemical and drug exposure: Cleaners, chemo agents and anesthetic gases can irritate skin or lungs.
With the hazards clear, take steps that guard your health and your workers’ comp claim.
What to do after an injury
Quick action can help you heal and support your workers' compensation case. Small moves in the first days can make a big difference. Use these steps in the first 24 to 72 hours:
Tell a supervisor right away and file an incident report within 30 days.
Ask for the authorized clinic or doctor and follow the treatment plan.
Write down the time, location and task, and list any witnesses.
Save photos of spills, equipment and the area where the injury happened.
Keep copies of work notes, restrictions and any light-duty offers.
Track lost time, prescriptions and mileage to medical visits.
Avoid social media posts about the incident or your symptoms.
When you document well and follow care, you protect your health and keep options open if a dispute starts.Healthcare work takes strength and skill, and it can also take a toll. Steady planning and local guidance could help you stay safe, secure benefits and return to the job on your terms.]]>On Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[Can I make temporary accommodations permanent after work injury?]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=480212026-03-31T12:09:21Z2026-03-31T12:09:21ZThe modified schedule allowed you to work after your injury in Vero Beach, Florida. But your back still hurts every morning. Your doctor declared you at maximum medical improvement (MMI), which means your condition has settled as much as it will. Now your employer wants to end the accommodations and put you back on full duty. If you cannot do the work, you may lose your paycheck and health insurance at the same time.
How Florida law treats temporary accommodations
Florida Statutes Section 440.15, requires employers to provide temporary accommodations during recovery, but not permanent ones. Once your doctor declares you at MMI, your employer can end the accommodations. They can return you to your original position and if your restrictions prevent you from doing that job, your employer may fire you. Workers' compensation benefits may not cover your lost wages.
What happens when restrictions become permanent
If your doctor assigns permanent restrictions after reaching MMI, you may qualify for permanent partial disability benefits or job retraining programs. However, your employer does not have to create a new position or modify your old one. Some employers offer permanent light duty roles, but that is voluntary.
When the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may apply
Florida workers' compensation law does not require permanent accommodations. But federal disability law may. The ADA requires companies with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations for workers with disabilities, as long as they do not create a major burden for the business. Temporary accommodations that may become permanent include:
Lower lifting limits that stay in place
Flexible schedules that continue after therapy ends
Desk work instead of heavy labor
Special equipment that becomes permanent
These accommodations can help you keep your job while managing permanent restrictions. If your employer refuses to make a temporary accommodation permanent, you may have a disability discrimination claim. Proving that claim requires medical records and legal help.
Get legal guidance before you lose your job
An attorney experienced in Florida workers' compensation can review your medical records and review your rights under the ADA. They can also help you pursue permanent accommodations or benefits before your employer ends the temporary ones. Your restrictions may last forever, but your chance to protect your livelihood is not.]]>On Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[Is workers’ compensation available for agricultural workers?]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=480162026-01-28T15:29:14Z2026-01-28T15:29:14ZAgriculture workers in Florida play a key role in the state’s economy, but their jobs can be dangerous. Knowing if workers’ compensation is available can help workers understand their rights if they get hurt on the job. Florida has special rules about workers’ compensation for agriculture workers, and these rules can be different from other industries.
What is workers' compensation for agriculture workers?
Workers' compensation is a type of insurance that helps workers who get injured or sick because of their job. For agricultural workers, this can cover medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation. However, not all agricultural workers in Florida automatically get workers’ compensation.
Which agricultural workers are covered by workers' compensation?
Florida law says which workers can get workers' compensation. Farms with fewer than six workers usually do not have to provide workers' compensation insurance. However, farms with six or more workers must have this coverage. Workers should ask their employer if the farm offers workers' compensation, especially if there are fewer than six workers.
How does workers' compensation work for agriculture workers?
If an agriculture worker gets injured, they may be able to get help with medical bills and part of their lost wages. But workers must report the injury to their employer right away because waiting too long could affect their ability to get benefits. Workers should also know the deadlines for filing claims to avoid losing benefits.Many services in Florida offer help in Spanish (se habla Español), so Spanish-speaking workers can easily get the support they need.If an agriculture worker gets hurt, workers' compensation can provide support. By knowing who is covered and how the process works, workers can make better decisions if they are injured at work.]]>On Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[Why shouldn’t you settle your back injury claim too soon?]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=479972025-11-24T17:46:45Z2025-11-24T17:46:45ZWhen you hurt your back in an accident, it can be tempting to accept a quick settlement offer. Medical bills and missed work add stress, and a fast payout might sound appealing. But settling too soon can leave you without fair compensation for long-term effects.
You may not know the full extent of your injuries
Back injuries often worsen over time. What feels like a mild strain today could turn into chronic pain or require surgery later. If you settle before your doctor completes your evaluation, you might miss compensation for future medical treatment, pain, or reduced earning ability.
Future medical expenses can add up
Florida law allows injured people to recover damages for both current and future medical care. That means you can seek payment for therapy, rehabilitation, and other treatments you might need later. Accepting an early settlement before knowing the full medical costs could stop you from getting the full amount you deserve.
Lost income and lasting effects
A back injury can affect your ability to return to work or perform your job duties. If you agree to settle before knowing how long you’ll be out of work, you risk underestimating your lost wages. Florida courts consider ongoing income loss and reduced earning capacity when determining compensation, so waiting for a clear medical picture can make a difference.
Take time before making a decision
Once you accept a settlement, you usually waive your right to ask for more money later. Under Florida law, a release of liability ends your claim permanently. It’s better to wait until you reach maximum medical improvement and understand how the back injury affects your daily life. That patience can lead to a fairer outcome.]]>On Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[How workers’ compensation works for first responders]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=479962025-10-01T13:19:50Z2025-10-01T13:19:50ZFirst responders face danger every day in the line of duty. Police officers, firefighters, and paramedics often suffer injuries while protecting the public. Florida law provides special protections for these workers through the state’s workers’ compensation system. Understanding these benefits can help you if you or someone you know serves as a first responder.
Physical injuries on the job
First responders frequently deal with physical injuries. These can include burns, fractures, sprains, and exposure to dangerous substances. Florida’s laws cover these injuries when they occur during the course of employment. If an injury requires medical treatment or time away from work, first responders may receive compensation for medical bills and lost wages.
Mental health conditions
State law also recognizes the emotional strain of being a first responder. High-stress events such as responding to a mass shooting or natural disaster can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Since 2018, Florida has allowed first responders to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits for PTSD, even without a physical injury. This protection helps ensure that mental health is taken as seriously as physical harm.
Benefits available
Workers’ compensation benefits for first responders may include medical care, wage replacement, and disability benefits. The amount and length of benefits depend on the severity of the injury or condition. In some cases, permanent disability benefits may apply if the responder cannot return to work. Families may also receive death benefits if a first responder loses their life due to a work-related incident.
Moving forward after an injury
Understanding workers’ compensation benefits helps first responders recover with fewer financial worries. Regardless of the issue the responder is dealing with, the system is designed to provide support during recovery. These benefits aim to give first responders the security they deserve for their service.]]>On Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[How to protect your rights after a workplace injury]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=479792025-09-10T10:13:01Z2025-08-07T20:10:43Zworkers' compensation process.
Report the injury immediately
The first thing you must do is report your injury to a supervisor as soon as possible. Florida law gives you 30 days. Waiting too long could cause your claim to be denied. If your employer does not report the injury to their insurance company, you have the right to report it yourself. This simple step is crucial for starting your claim.
Seek authorized medical care
After an accident, you should get medical attention right away. Even if an injury seems minor, it could worsen without proper care. Under Florida law, you must see a medical provider authorized by your employer or their insurance carrier. However, in some instances, you can choose the doctor you want to see.
At your appointment, there are some important details to share.
Be sure to tell your doctor that the injury is work-related.
Describe exactly how the injury occurred and what body parts are affected.
Follow all the treatment and care instructions your doctor gives you.
The medical records created by an authorized doctor are essential for your claim.
Document everything
Keeping a detailed record of every interaction and piece of information related to your injury is incredibly important. This documentation helps support your claim and keep you organized.
Here are some things to document thoroughly.
Write down the date, time and location of the accident.
Keep a log of all phone calls and emails with your employer and the insurance company.
Make copies of every form, medical bill and prescription you receive.
Your personal notes will serve as a valuable reference during the claim process.
After a workplace injury, the system can feel complicated and intimidating. Seeking guidance from a skilled workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and the next steps to take.]]>On Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[3 benefits of hiring a workers’ comp lawyer with trial experience]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=479682025-06-08T23:56:40Z2025-06-08T23:56:40ZThe desire to reduce stress
An attorney can manage the claims process on behalf of an injured or sickened employee. Their efforts can drastically reduce the stress that the claimant experiences. That, in turn, could potentially speed up their recovery. Stress has a negative impact on the human immune system and can affect how quickly people heal. Having someone professionally manage the claims process allows the worker to feel confident about getting benefits instead of anxious about the future.
Assistance optimizing benefits
Many employees who do not fully understand the workers' compensation system might accept fewer benefits than they actually deserve given their condition. An attorney familiar with the system and with the benefits that workers can receive could help ensure that their clients receive the optimal benefits possible given their circumstances.
Seamless support if things go wrong
Hiring an attorney who has trial experience means that an injured employee doesn't have to worry about denied benefits or disputes about a treatment plan delaying the progress of their claim. Instead, they can rely on their attorney to take appropriate steps immediately when complications arise. If people try to manage the claims process on their own and only bring in support when things become complicated, they may find themselves racing against the clock. When workers who need benefits already have someone familiar with the system overseeing their claims, they don't have to worry about missing the opportunity to appeal because they struggle to find an attorney who understands what they need.
Many people in need of workers’ compensation benefits may find that the process is less challenging when they have the assistance of an attorney familiar with not just the law but with litigating complex claims. Retaining the right support early sets people up for success and helps them limit how difficult the claims process might become.]]>On Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[5 common misconceptions about workers’ compensation claims]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=479422025-04-17T01:05:05Z2025-04-17T01:05:05ZMisconception #1. Worker mistakes could cost them benefits
One of the most common and pervasive misconceptions about workers' compensation has to do with eligibility. Quite a few workers believe that they are ineligible for workers’ compensation if their employers can show that they caused the incident that left them hurt. Workers’ compensation provides no-fault support, meaning that a worker's mistake does not render them ineligible for benefits.
Misconception #2. Only full-time workers qualify
Another common myth about workers’ compensation relates to employment arrangements. Some people think they need to have held their jobs for months to qualify. Others assume they need to have a full-time or permanent position to be eligible. Workers’ compensation typically covers any direct-hire employee regardless of how many hours a week they work.
Misconception #3. Health insurance is just as good
Many injured employees assume that they don't need to file a workers’ compensation claim because they only need medical coverage. They may assume that if they have health insurance, their medical insurance covers as much as workers’ compensation does. Health insurance usually passes a portion of medical expenses to the patient in the form of coinsurance, deductibles or copays. Workers’ compensation provides full medical benefits without passing expenses on to the injured worker.
Misconception #4. Applying for benefits can cost a worker their job
Many employees assume that their employers can punish them for seeking benefits. However, workers have a right to report an on-the-job incident and to file a claim for workers’ compensation without facing retaliation. Firing a worker for getting hurt on the job or seeking workers' compensation is a violation of employment statutes that may open an employer up to litigation.
Misconception #5. A denied claim is the end of the road
Many workers assume that if they don't receive immediate approval for benefits, then they have no other options available to them. Workers have the right to appeal unfavorable decisions. They can even ask for a change of physician.
Navigating a contentious workers' compensation claim can be very challenging, and employees facing pushback may need help, which is okay. Injured workers who have the right information and assistance can potentially apply for benefits that can help them as they recover from an on-the-job injury.]]>On Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[What first responders should know about workers’ compensation]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=474422025-02-12T04:41:13Z2025-02-12T04:41:13ZFirst responders are eligible for benefits
Provided that a first responder sustains an injury on the job or has an illness related to their employment, they may qualify for workers' compensation benefits. An injured first responder can receive full medical coverage for any necessary treatment that they have to receive for their injury or illness.
They may also be eligible for disability benefits. If they require a leave of absence while they recover or have to move to a lower-paid job, disability benefits can help. Those benefits are available for both state employees working for government entities and those working for private organizations, as is often the case with paramedics and EMTs.
Trauma-related benefits are available
Florida has actually enacted statutes expanding the protection available to first responders. Given the risk of experiencing a traumatic incident on the job, state statutes help streamline the benefits process for first responders who develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If they face an attack by an individual, witness the death of a minor or respond to shocking homicide scenes, then they may be able to pursue workers' compensation benefits for PTSD symptoms. While other workers may face an uphill battle seeking workers' compensation for PTSD, first responders may receive more compassionate treatment when they can't work because of traumatic previous experiences. They can qualify for benefits even if they didn't sustain a physical injury.
Trying to handle the red tape of a workers' compensation claim while recovering from injuries or trauma is difficult. Injured first responders may need help filing a claim or overcoming temporary setbacks.]]>On Behalf of Matheson and Horowitz<![CDATA[What are the steps in a Florida workers’ compensation claim?]]>https://www.mathesonhorowitz.com/?p=474392024-12-15T22:33:12Z2024-12-15T22:33:12ZMandatory reporting to an employer
If a worker gets hurt in a traumatic incident on the job, they usually need to notify a manager or supervisor immediately. They can then make arrangements to seek medical care.
Other times, workers get diagnosed while seeing a medical professional and have to notify their employers about their condition. In such scenarios, workers typically have to make a formal report within 30 days or risk losing their eligibility for benefits. The employer needs to notify the insurance company within seven days about the injury or diagnosis.
Developing a treatment plan
In a scenario requiring emergency intervention, the worker may see a physician at a nearby hospital or urgent care facility to stabilize their condition. Typically, either the employer or the insurance company selects the health care provider in a workers' compensation claim. That professional evaluates the worker's symptoms and then establishes a treatment plan.
The treatment plan may include medication, physical therapy, surgery and other interventions. In some cases, the physician may recommend that the worker take a leave of absence to recover. Other times, the medical professional can provide written information about functional limitations and the accommodations the worker needs to return to work.
Managing benefits and care
A worker becomes eligible for disability benefits once they have missed seven days of employment because of their health condition. If they miss more than 21 days of work, they may ultimately be eligible for benefits covering the first week of missed work.
In some cases, there may be disagreements about the treatment that is necessary, whether the worker is ready to return to work or even the origins of their injuries. Particularly in cases involving major injuries and lengthy employment interruptions, injured workers may require the support of a legal professional.
They have the option of hiring an attorney at any point during the workers' compensation claims process. Most employees benefit from having support from the very beginning. Workers denied benefits have the right to appeal, and those facing challenges may need to undergo specialized medical evaluations, both of which can be easier with legal support.
Learning more about workers' compensation benefits can help people follow the necessary steps. Workers' compensation claims can be more difficult if employees do not have the right information and support after getting hurt on the job.]]>