Workplace Trauma Injuries in Fort Lauderdale: How Workers’ Compensation Helps Cover Your Costs
Traumatic injuries can happen on the job without warning and leave workers facing not just physical recovery, but financial uncertainty. May is National Trauma Awareness Month, and for workers in Fort Lauderdale, it provides a timely reminder not only of how injuries happen but also of your rights to workers’ compensation.
Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer explains common types of trauma injuries that can happen on the job, how workers’ compensation can help cover your costs, and what you need to know to protect your rights to benefits.
What Qualifies as a Traumatic Injury Under Florida Workers’ Compensation?
Any sudden or violent accident can cause trauma, resulting in long-term disabilities and potentially fatal injuries. According to the American Trauma Society, one of the places they are most likely to occur is on the job site.
Under Section 440.09 of the Florida Statutes, workers’ compensation covers medical care and portions of lost income due to injuries arising out of and in the course of employment. Traumatic workplace injuries in Fort Lauderdale that may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits include:
- Severe fractures and crushing injuries due to equipment accidents, vehicle collisions, or structural collapses.
- Traumatic amputations resulting from machinery, power tools, or industrial equipment.
- Internal organ injuries caused by blunt force impact.
- Severe burn injuries from fires, chemical exposure, or electrical hazards.
- Back, neck, and spinal cord injuries.
Benefits available through the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation can help injured workers get the medical care and rehabilitation they need, offset lost income during recovery, and provide payment for long-term disabilities.
What Trauma Injury Victims Need To Know About the Florida Workers’ Compensation Process
Traumatic injury claims typically involve higher medical costs and longer recovery timelines. Due to the increased amount of benefits required, insurers closely scrutinize these claims.
To protect your benefits from the start, take these steps:
- Make sure all injuries are documented in your initial medical records, even those that seem secondary to your primary trauma.
- Follow your full treatment plan, including referrals to specialists, surgeons, and rehabilitation providers.
- Keep a journal that describes how your injuries affect your life and any hobbies or daily activities you can no longer perform.
- Avoid accepting any settlements while you are still undergoing treatment and before your doctor provides a long-term prognosis.
Traumatic injuries often cause permanent impairments. Agreeing to a settlement too soon can leave you paying out of pocket for years to come.
Traumatic Injuries on the Job? Consult An Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Have you or a loved one suffered a traumatic injury at a Fort Lauderdale job site? The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A., provides the comprehensive service and trusted legal representation you need to protect your rights in a claim.
To request a consultation with an experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer, call or contact us online today. Our Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach offices proudly serve clients throughout South Florida.
Sources:
amtrauma.org/Web/Web/Prevention/NTAM-2026/National-Trauma-Awareness-Month-2026.aspx
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/Sections/0440.09.html