Tampa Workers' Compensation Guide for Injured Workers

Tampa has one of the busiest job markets in Florida, with the port, the airport, large hospital systems, and nonstop construction. With that much physical work comes a steady stream of serious injuries, from falls and crush injuries to back and shoulder damage that develops over time.

Kotler Law represents Tampa and Hillsborough County workers from our nearby St. Petersburg office, just across the Howard Frankland and Gandy bridges.

Common work injuries we see in Tampa

Most of our Tampa and Hillsborough County clients work in these fields:

• Construction, roofing, and road work
• Port, shipping, and warehouse distribution
• Hospitals and university medical centers
• Airport, airline, and hospitality jobs
• Police, fire rescue, and other public employees

What to do after a work injury in Tampa

1. Report it in writing within 30 days. Tell your supervisor what happened, when, and which body parts were hurt. Keep a copy.
2. Get authorized medical care. In an emergency, go to the ER. Otherwise ask the employer or carrier which doctor is authorized, since unauthorized care may not be paid.
3. Be careful with recorded statements. The adjuster may ask for one early. Inaccurate or incomplete answers are often used later to deny benefits.
4. Track your lost time and wages. Wage benefits are generally two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to a state maximum, and depend on your doctor's work restrictions.
5. Talk to a workers' comp lawyer before you sign anything. Settlements usually close out future medical care, so know what you are giving up.

Meeting with Kotler Law

Tampa clients usually meet us at our St. Petersburg office at 9800 4th St N, by phone, or by video. Workers' compensation claims for Hillsborough and Pinellas counties are handled through the Judges of Compensation Claims district office in Tampa.

Related decisions on our blog

• Reigel v. Tampa Fire Rescue: knee scope awarded
• Moore v. City of Tampa: cervical treatment denied
• Brown v. Tampa Family Health Centers: injury at a work event
• Wheatley v. Hillsborough County: PTD and job search

Tampa workers' comp FAQ

How long do I have to report a work injury in Florida?

Report the injury to your employer within 30 days. A petition for benefits generally must be filed within 2 years of the injury, or within 1 year of the last payment of benefits or authorized medical care, whichever is later.

Do first responders in Tampa get special protections?

Yes. Florida has presumptions for certain conditions in firefighters, law enforcement, and other first responders, including some heart, lung, and hypertension conditions and, in some cases, PTSD. These presumptions have strict requirements, so get advice early.

What does it cost to hire Kotler Law?

Consultations are free and there is no fee unless we win. In Florida workers' compensation cases, attorney's fees are regulated by statute and are typically paid from benefits recovered or by the employer/carrier.

Hurt at work in Tampa? Request a free consultation or call (813) 473-2618. There is no fee unless we win.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Every case depends on its facts.