When a Florida business has over three employees, that business is required to purchase Florida workers’ compensation insurance. All construction companies must be covered by an insurer. There are many considerations that prospective business owners must think about when they are setting up their businesses. One matter that will need to be addressed for most businesses is finding a provider to purchase Florida workers’ compensation insurance. When an employee sustains an injury at work, they have the right to pursue compensation that will cover their medical expenses from their accident as well as a portion of their wages if they cannot work for a long period of time.

Florida workers’ compensation law can be very complicated. If you were injured on the job and you have questions about how to obtain workers’ compensation benefits, connect with Stephen M. Andrews. Stephen M. Andrews is an experienced Tallahassee workers’ compensation attorney who thoroughly understands Florida workers’ compensation laws and has a proven track record of success helping injured workers get their benefits.

Why Does Florida Make Businesses Carry Workers’ Compensation?

Florida mandates that most businesses throughout the state have workers’ compensation coverage for the benefit of the employee's safety. The coverage acts like a safety net for workers when they are injured while on the job. It also acts as a motivator for employers in the state to keep their work environments safe for their employees. Florida workers’ compensation coverage is also helpful for employers, as it helps them avoid lawsuits when an accident happens at their business.

Construction businesses must have the coverage for every one of the people they employ, including their contractors. As for contractors, they must make sure that their sub-contractors have coverage for their employees. Agricultural businesses have unique circumstances where they must carry Florida’s workers’ compensation coverage for employees. When an agricultural business in Florida has more than five employees or if they have more than 11 seasonal/temporary employees who work for over 30 days, it is required that they carry workers' compensation coverage.

While most businesses are required to have coverage, there are some exceptions. For example, sole proprietors do not have to abide by Florida’s workers’ compensation laws. That doesn’t mean that they cannot obtain it. By filing for election of coverage, a sole proprietor or partner can buy workers’ compensation coverage.

Most employers must have coverage for both full-time and part-time employees. Because independent contractors are not employees, a business owner is not responsible to have coverage for these workers. Self-employed people who are not in the construction industry may choose not to have the coverage. However, if they are injured while working, their medical coverage won’t provide missed wage reimbursement, so it could be worthwhile for these folks to purchase the coverage.

Talk to a Florida Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

Stephen M. Andrews, P.A. will help you manage your Florida worker’s compensation claim and fight on your behalf so you secure a fair settlement. Don’t take the risk of settling for a smaller settlement than you deserve or risk having your claim denied. Call Stephen M. Andrews, P.A. today and speak with a qualified Tallahassee workers’ compensation attorney during a free consultation at (850) 906-9599.