As a Florida-based employer, you are required by law to provide workers' compensation benefits to your employees. The Florida Workers' Compensation law (Chapter 440, Florida Statutes) mandates that all employers with four or more employees who are either full-time or part-time, including family members who work for the business, must provide workers' compensation coverage.
Workers' compensation benefits in Florida include medical benefits, temporary wage replacement benefits, and vocational rehabilitation benefits. Medical benefits include all reasonable and necessary medical treatment that is related to the work-related injury or illness. Temporary wage replacement benefits are aimed at compensating the employee for lost wages during the time they are off work due to the injury or illness. Vocational rehabilitation benefits are aimed at helping the employee get back to work, either in the same position or a different one, if the injury or illness prevents them from doing their previous job.
If an employee is injured on the job, they have the right to file a workers' compensation claim. Once a claim is filed, the employer is responsible for providing all necessary paperwork and documentation to the workers' compensation insurance carrier.
There are some limitations and exceptions to workers' compensation coverage in Florida. For example, if an employee is injured as a result of their own willful misconduct or if they were under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the injury, they may not be eligible for workers' compensation benefits.
If you are a Florida-based employer and have questions about your legal obligations regarding workers' compensation benefits, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed attorney who is familiar with Florida workers' compensation law.
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