Under Florida law, most employers are required to provide workers’ compensation benefits to employees who are injured at work or develop an occupational disease due to their jobs.
Florida’s workers’ compensation program is a no-fault system that generally provides injured employees with benefits, regardless of who was at fault in causing the injuries. In exchange, these individuals cannot sue the company or business in a personal injury lawsuit.
If you're employed in Florida, it's important to understand the common injuries covered under workers' compensation benefits.
Workplace Accidents That Lead to Employees’ Injuries
There are many types of incidents in workplaces that can lead to employees being injured or developing a serious illness. While people who work in industries such as construction, trucking, and manufacturing face some of the greatest risks, individuals in any profession can be hurt on the job.
Some of the causes of workplace injuries include:
- Being caught between or in heavy machinery
- Car and truck accidents
- Slips, falls, and trips
- Falls from heights
- Falling objects
- Repetitive movements and overexertion
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Violence in the workplace
Common Injuries Covered Under Workers’ Compensation
In Florida, most injuries and diseases caused during the normal course of an individual’s employment would be covered under workers’ compensation. However, there are exceptions, such as if the injury was caused by the worker’s drug or alcohol use, horseplay, or failure to follow company procedures.
Many types of injuries and illnesses are covered under workers’ compensation laws, including the following:
- Back, shoulder, and neck injuries, and other soft tissue injuries which are often caused by repetitive movements and overexertion
- Carpel tunnel syndrome
- Strains and sprains
- Lacerations and contusions
- Internal organ damage
- Burns
- Hearing and vision loss
- Psychological disorders
- Strokes
- Respiratory illnesses, lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other life-threatening diseases caused by exposure to hazardous substances
- Crushed and fractured bones
- Amputations
- Traumatic brain injury and other head injuries
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
- Death
Contact an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorney for Help
If you were hurt at your job, you may have to fight for the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.
Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys have the skills to uphold the rights of injured workers. Schedule a free consultation today with a member of our legal team to discuss workers’ compensation benefits and how we can assist you.
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