Who to Call for a Workplace Accident in Florida


Workplace injuries are much more common than most people realize. In Florida alone, there were over 61,000 workers’ comp cases filed in 2023. This resulted in more than $2.1 billion paid in compensation, such as medical care, wage replacement, and settlements. Numbers dropped a little in 2024, as did the average settlements and benefits.

Anyone who has been injured knows it can be a confusing time. Whether the incident took place in retail, education, or construction, knowing what to do matters. The right guidance can protect your health, your job and your financial future.

Common Causes of Workplace Accidents

We tend to think of construction and factory settings, but workplace accidents can happen anywhere. In Florida, the most frequent are:

- Slips, falls and trips: These can be caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting
- Overexertion: Repetitive lifting, pulling, and pushing can cause strain injuries, especially in construction or warehouse jobs.
- Falling objects: Items dropped from shelves or scaffolding can cause head and neck injuries.
- Equipment-related incidents: Malfunctioning tools and improperly used machinery are a leading cause of injuries, mainly in manufacturing and construction.
- Vehicle accidents: Crashes during work hours are a major risk for delivery drivers, truck operators or field workers
- Exposure to harmful substances: If you work in agriculture, cleaning, or healthcare, you have a risk of exposure to chemicals and biohazards

First Steps After an Injury

The steps you take after a workplace injury can protect your health and your right to compensation.

1. Report it immediately: Tell your supervisor or employer as soon as you can. In Florida, you typically have 30 days to report a work-related injury.

2. Seek medical attention: Get medical treatment or get checked out. Even if the injury seems minor. Your employer may direct you to an approved provider. Follow all medical instructions carefully.

3. Document everything: Keep a written record of the accident, including what happened, where, when and who witnessed it. Take photos of any injuries sustained. Save medical reports, bills, and get in touch with your employer and insurer, as it could all be required as proof.

4. File a claim properly: Your employer should report the injury to their workers’ comp insurance company. You can also contact the insurer directly if needed.

5. Consult a Florida workers' comp lawyer: An experienced attorney helps you understand your rights and is necessary if your claim is denied or if benefits are delayed. In more complex cases, this step is critical.

Understanding Florida Workers’ Compensation

If you’re hurt while performing work duties, you’re typically entitled to assistance through the Florida workers’ compensation system. This includes medical care and partial wage replacement. Florida has a no-fault system, so fault is not a factor here. There are three main types of benefits:

- Medical benefits: Doctor visits, surgery, therapy, prescriptions and related expenses are all covered.
- Wage replacement: If you can’t work, you may receive temporary total or partial disability payments.
- Settlement benefits: Some workers receive lump-sum settlements. These are based on the severity of their injury and future needs.

When to Call a Lawyer

You don’t always need a lawyer, but sometimes, it’s the smartest move. It’s best to call a Florida workers comp lawyer if:

- Your claim is denied or delayed
- You’re pressured to return to work too soon
- The settlement offer seems too low
- You have a serious or permanent injury
- You’re unsure of your rights

A good lawyer can handle paperwork, talk to insurers, and fight for what you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Endnote

Workplace injuries are stressful; knowing when to act and who to call makes all the difference. If things get complicated, make sure to contact the right legal support. 

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Posted - 07/15/2025