Struck-by Object Accidents on the Job in Fort Lauderdale: What Workers’ Compensation Covers
Maybe a tool slips from a coworker’s hands on the floor above you, a piece of equipment swings into your path, or stocked shelves tip over without warning. Struck-by accidents are common on Fort Lauderdale job sites, and the injuries they cause are often severe.
If a falling or moving object struck you at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer explains what qualifies and how to protect your rights to benefits in the aftermath of a struck-by accident.
Why Struck-by Accidents Cause Some of the Most Serious Workplace Injuries in South Florida
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) warns that struck-by-object accidents are one of the leading causes of construction site injuries. They are also common in retail stores, warehouses, manufacturing plants, loading docks, and other environments.
Under the Florida Statutes, workers’ compensation can help offset losses when an accident occurs on the job. Common types of struck-by injuries among Fort Lauderdale workers include:
- Concussions and brain injuries caused by falling tools, debris, or materials.
- Facial fractures and eye injuries caused by flying fragments, fasteners, or dislodged equipment.
- Shoulder and collarbone injuries from direct impact with falling or swinging objects.
- Spinal injuries resulting from the force of a heavy object striking the back or neck.
- Broken bones in the arms and hands from instinctively shielding against an incoming object.
When these or other injuries happen on the job in Fort Lauderdale, workers’ compensation helps cover your medical costs and lost income during recovery.
Protecting Your Rights in a Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Claim
Insurers are quick to deny or dispute struck-by claims, arguing that the worker contributed to the accident or that they failed to follow safety protocols. To protect your rights in a Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation claim, take these steps after a struck-by accident:
- Report the incident, in writing, to your supervisor immediately and include specific details about what struck you, where it came from, and who witnessed it.
- Seek medical care right away and make sure the physician documents your injury and how it happened.
- Preserve evidence at the scene, including the object involved, photographs of the area, and the names of anyone present.
- Keep a record of symptoms that develop in the aftermath, which may not fully appear until days afterward.
If your employer or the insurer attempts to deny your workers’ compensation benefits, get professional legal help right away.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
Were you struck by a falling tool, shifting materials, or moving equipment on a Fort Lauderdale job site? Contact us at the Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer helps injured workers build the strongest possible claim and can protect your rights in dealing with insurers. To get the benefits you are entitled to, reach out and request a consultation today in our Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach office.
Sources:
osha.gov/etools/construction/struck-by
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/Sections/0440.09.html