In Manatee County, where industries flourish and skyscrapers pierce the skyline, employees inevitably face workplace hazards. If you’ve experienced an injury at work, understanding your legal rights and avenues for compensation can be daunting. Fortunately, you are in the right place. Contact the dedicated Manatee County work injury lawyers here at Becker & Lindauer, LLC today.
Work Injury Lawyer | Fighting for Those Injured On the Job
When workers are injured on the job, they need a legal team they can turn to that will fight for what they need to support themselves and their families. By hiring the skilled Bradenton personal injury lawyers here at Becker & Lindauer, LLC, you can have confidence that your case is in good hands.
Most Common Types of Work Injuries
From construction sites to corporate offices, no workplace is immune to accidents. Some of the most common injuries encountered in the Florida workforce include:
- Slips, Trips, and Falls: Whether caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly lit staircases, these accidents can lead to serious injuries.
- Overexertion: This occurs when an employee lifts, pushes, pulls, or performs a task beyond their physical limit, resulting in muscle strains or other related injuries.
- Falling Objects: Especially prevalent in construction sites, falling tools or materials can lead to severe head or body injuries.
- Machinery Accidents: Malfunctioning or improperly operated machinery can cause crush injuries, cuts, or even amputations.
- Repetitive Motion Injuries: Continual tasks, like typing or assembly line work, can lead to musculoskeletal disorders over time.
Florida’s Most Dangerous Workplaces
While injuries can happen anywhere, certain environments are more prone to them. They are as follows:
- Construction Sites: With their ever-changing environments, heavy machinery, and elevated work areas, construction sites top the list.
- Manufacturing Plants: High-speed machinery and the handling of raw materials increase the risks.
- Transportation: Taxi drivers, truckers, and public transport workers face threats from road accidents and other vehicular mishaps.
- Healthcare: Hospitals and clinics, surprisingly, see a high number of workplace injuries. Overexertion and patient handling contribute significantly.
- Retail and Warehousing: Slippery floors, high shelves, and heavy inventory can make these seemingly benign environments risky.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims
When injured at work, it’s essential to understand the difference between a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party claim.
- Workers’ Compensation: This is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees injured on the job. If you’re hurt at work, regardless of fault, you can file a workers’ compensation claim. Benefits typically cover medical bills, a portion of lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
- Third-Party Claims: These come into play when someone other than your employer or a coworker is responsible for your injury. For instance, if you’re injured by a defective piece of equipment at work, you might have a claim against the equipment manufacturer. Third-party claims can offer damages not available under workers’ compensation, such as full lost wages, pain and suffering, and other non-economic damages.
Pursuing a Work Injury Claim in Florida
If you believe you have a valid work injury claim, it’s crucial to:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Ensure your health and safety first. Prompt medical care also establishes a clear record of your injuries.
- Notify Your Employer: Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, typically within 30 days.
- Document Everything: From medical bills to witness statements, gather all possible evidence related to your injury.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: Particularly for complicated cases or third-party claims, professional guidance can be invaluable in navigating the legal intricacies and securing the compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Bradenton, Florida Work Injury Lawyers Today
The bottom line is that while preventive measures and safety protocols play a pivotal role in minimizing risks, accidents on the job do still occur. If you’ve been injured on the job, contact Becker & Lindauer, LLC for a free initial consultation.
