Employers with four or more employees (including part-time, full-time, and corporate officers) are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
Employers in the construction industry must carry coverage if they have one or more employees.
No-Fault System
Florida workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning injured employees may receive benefits regardless of who caused the injury.
Reporting an Injury & Time Limits
A work-related injury must be reported to the employer within 30 days of the incident or from the date the employee becomes aware of the injury. Timely reporting is essential.
The general statute of limitations to file a formal claim for benefits is two years from the date of injury.
Income & Medical Benefits
Payment for necessary medical treatment.
Partial wage replacement, typically 66 2/3% of the average weekly wage.
Compensation for permanent impairment, if applicable.
Temporary benefits are capped at 104 weeks or until the employee reaches Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), whichever comes first.
Protection From Retaliation
An injured employee cannot be terminated solely for filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Choice of Treating Physician
The insurance carrier generally selects the authorized treating physician.
If an employee is dissatisfied with the medical care, they are entitled to a one-time change of doctor, subject to approval by the insurance carrier.
Independent Medical Examination (IME)
An injured employee may request an Independent Medical Examination (IME) if they believe the diagnosis is incorrect.
Please note: the cost of the IME is the employee’s responsibility.
Contact Doctors’ Council if you would like assistance with requesting an IME or changing doctors.