When you go to work, you likely want to do your job to the best of your abilities and leave. However, when you sustain an on-the-job injury, this can make this goal unattainable. Unfortunately, many workers injured while on the clock are unaware of their rights following a work-related accident. If this reflects your circumstances, familiarizing yourself with how to proceed following a work injury is critical. Luckily, the following blog explores what you should know about these matters and why it’s in your best interest to contact a Broward County work injury lawyer to explore these circumstances.
What Are Common Causes of an On-the-Job Injury?
It’s important to understand that how work-related injuries happen depends on the circumstances surrounding your injury.
For example, you may find that broken equipment, lack of training, lack of personal protective equipment, unsafe working conditions, or exposure to harmful substances can lead to severe injuries. However, for other workers, these injuries can be something as seemingly innocuous as a slip and fall in the workplace. Regardless, anyone hurt on the job must understand their rights to ensure they receive the justice they deserve for their injuries.
Am I Eligible for Compensation?
If you are injured or become ill due to working conditions or other hazards, it’s imperative to understand that you are entitled to workers’ compensation. Essentially, if you are injured while working or fall ill because of something you were exposed to while working, you can receive compensation for the damages you sustained.
It’s imperative to understand that you can recover compensation for injuries, even if there is no negligence on behalf of your employer. Unlike other types of personal injuries, workers’ compensation allows you to seek funds, even if your employer was not negligent.
There are restrictions regarding when you can seek compensation. For example, if your injuries are because you showed up to work intoxicated, were roughhousing with a coworker, or were not performing tasks within the scope of your job duties, you can be barred from collecting compensation.
What Should I Do if My Employer Tries to Prevent Workers’ Compensation?
If your employer is attempting to prevent you from recovering the compensation you deserve for an injury sustained on the clock, it’s in your best interest to obtain legal representation. They can help you connect with the Florida Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. Additionally, though filing a worker’s compensation claim means you relinquish the right to file a lawsuit against your employer, you may be able to take legal action for their violation of Florida law regarding reporting work injuries.
However, it’s imperative to connect with an experienced work injury attorney as soon as possible if this represents your circumstances. At the Finizio Law Group, our team understands that you are likely relying on the funds from workers’ comp to help pay bills associated with your injuries, so we will do everything possible to fight for you during these times. Connect with us today to discuss your circumstances so we can help you take the correct actions to receive the compensation you deserve.
