Common Complications in Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Claims Involving Construction Workers
Being a construction worker in Fort Lauderdale is physically demanding in ways that most jobs are not. Working at heights, operating heavy equipment, and hauling materials on job sites where conditions constantly change increases the risk of injury.
Unfortunately, while you may be entitled to benefits, Florida workers’ compensation claims involving construction workers are more complex than in other industries. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer explains common issues concerning liability and other common complications in these cases.
Complications in Florida Construction Workers’ Compensation Claims
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that jobs in the construction industry are among the most dangerous. Workers face significant risks on the job each day, and injuries can be severe.
Unfortunately, while benefits available through the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation are designed to help cover medical care and other costs, these are among the most complex and disputed claims. Common complications in workers’ comp claims involving Fort Lauderdale construction workers include:
- Serious construction injuries often mean longer recovery timelines and higher medical costs.
- Repetitive stress injuries and other conditions that develop gradually over time on construction sites are harder to tie to a specific incident.
- Injured workers may be mislabeled as independent contractors and ineligible for workers’ compensation coverage.
- In addition to workers’ comp, compensation may be available in a personal injury claim if defective equipment or a negligent subcontractor was responsible.
When several contractors and subcontractors share a job site, insurers may also argue over who is actually liable for benefits, leaving you waiting while they sort it out.
How Fort Lauderdale Construction Workers Can Protect Their Rights to Benefits
Fort Lauderdale construction workers often face obstacles when seeking workers’ compensation benefits, but none are insurmountable. Ultimately, what matters is how you handle the situation from the moment the injury happens. Here’s how to protect your rights:
- Report your injury in writing to your employer immediately, even if the job site involves multiple contractors.
- Get medical attention right away and make sure your physician documents the specific incident or job activities that caused your injury, not just the resulting diagnosis.
- For gradual or repetitive stress injuries, start documenting your symptoms, the physical demands of your role, and the connection between the two as early as possible.
- If you were told you are an independent contractor, get legal help immediately, rather than assume that classification is correct.
If a third party, such as an equipment manufacturer or separate subcontractor, contributed to your injury, gathering evidence helps support both a workers’ compensation and personal injury claim.
Talk to an Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you were hurt on a Fort Lauderdale construction site, you’ll likely face complications getting workers’ compensation benefits. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer provides the professional legal help needed to protect your rights in a claim.
To get the compensation you need to recover, call or contact the Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A. online. Request a consultation today at our Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach office.
Source:
osha.gov/data/commonstats