According to the CDC, Florida surpassed 570,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases as of August 19, 2020. The increasing number of hospitalizations and deaths includes many “essential workers” that were exposed to the virus in the course and scope of their employment. These exposure based workers compensation claims are being met with absolute denials of benefits from every major employer and their workers compensation insurance carrier. Furthermore, many employees were asked to sign COVID-19 consent and waiver of liability forms in order to return to work. Whether exposure to COVID-19 at work can be waived or is a disease which employers can escape liability remains to be seen in a court of law. However, if you have contracted COVID-19 and you believe your exposure occurred at your workplace, we will fight for you in order to protect your health, job, and financial security. In order to support your case, we recommend taking the following steps.
- Notify your supervisor in writing immediately.
- Request to file a Notice of Injury of Accident/Illness with your supervisor.
- Request that the employer provide you with an emergency care physician for an initial evaluation.
- Secure documentation of your work schedule during the exposure period.
- Track any out of pocket expenses or time missed from work.
- Contact McGrath Gibson for a Free Consultation to learn your rights under Florida Workers Compensation Law.
The hiring of an experienced Florida Workers Compensation Attorney can ensure that you receive every benefit to which you are entitled. Our representation is on a contingent basis, meaning you pay no fees or costs unless we secure a benefit for you which was denied by the insurance carrier. Additionally, wrongful denials often include attorney fee provisions which will make the employer/carrier responsible for these expenses. We offer virtual, home, hospital, and telephonic consultations 24/7 at your convenience by calling (904) 358-3300.
