If you are an employee in the state of Florida, then you should be aware of your state's workers' compensation laws so that you don't get caught off-guard and unprepared if something happens and you find yourself in need of workers' compensation. What follows are nine of the most important things you need to know.

1. You only have 30 days to file a claim. If you get hurt, get to a doctor and get your claim filed. It is possible that you may be able to receive workers' compensation benefits if you file past 30 days, but you have a much better chance of receiving benefits if you file within the 30 day window. So don't delay. See your doctor immediately if you get hurt.

2 .Your employer's insurance company is responsible for ALL of your medical bills. This should ease any concerns you have about ending up with medical bills if you go see a doctor. So, again, do not delay in seeing your doctor if you are hurt on the job.

3. Your employer should report your injury no more than seven days after it becomes aware of the injury. After your employer reports the accident, your workers' compensation insurance company will send you a brochure explaining your rights and responsibilities.

4. If you are hurt, you can still be paid after seven days. If you are out of work for more than 21 days, then you will also be paid for your first seven days. Otherwise, your pay will resume after being out of work for seven days. Also, your first check will be sent within 21 days after the injury is reported.

5 The benefit pay you receive while hurt will be 66 2/3 percent of your average weekly pay. Your average weekly pay will be calculated based on your earnings for the 13 weeks prior to your injury, not counting the week your injury occurred. Workers' compensation checks are paid bi-weekly, regardless of your normal pay schedule.

6. You have the right to report your injury to your employer's workers' compensation insurance company even if your employer does not. Employer neglect does not eliminate your right to get paid if you are hurt on the job.

7. You do not have to pay income tax on your workers' compensation checks. This helps mitigate the lesser pay you will earn while hurt. However, any income you earn from other means will be subject to taxation.

8. Your employer cannot fire you for missing work because of an injury. However, there is also no requirement that your job be held open until you return. So filing workers' compensation and missing work is definitely not something to take lightly because it could impact your future with your company once you are able to work again.

9. If you find yourself without work once you are healthy, reemployment services will be provided to you at no cost. These include job-seeking skills, on-the-job training, job placement and vocational counseling.

So there you have it. Nine things you need to know about Florida workers' compensation law. Try to stay healthy. But if you do get hurt, the state of Florida will do everything it can to help you get back on your feet.