Florida Workers’ Compensation for Roofing Contractors: Are You Covered If You Fall?
Roofing is one of the most dangerous jobs in the country, and falls from heights can cause life-altering injuries. While Florida workers’ compensation can help cover your losses, the rules for roofing contractors are complex.
Whether you are a direct employee or working as an independent contractor, our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer explains the risks and your rights under Florida law.
Roofing Injuries and Your Rights in a Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Claim
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) warns that the construction industry has the highest on-the-job accident rates. Falls are particularly common and account for nearly one in three worker fatalities each year. Obviously, roofers are at high risk.
As a result, Florida law treats roofing differently from other types of contracting work. Under Section 440.02 of the Florida Statutes, roofing contractors must provide workers’ compensation insurance regardless of the size of their operation, including sole proprietors working alone.
This standard is higher than in most industries, but for good reason. Common types of roofing injuries that can seriously jeopardize your health and ability to make a living include:
- Fractures and broken bones from falls off roofs, ladders, or scaffolding structures.
- Traumatic brain injuries due to impact with the ground or surfaces below.
- Spinal injuries from the force of a fall from a significant height.
- Shoulder, knee, and hip injuries sustained on landing or while trying to stop a fall.
Coverage can extend to emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation, as well as a portion of wages lost during recovery.
What To Do After a Roofing Fall in Fort Lauderdale
Contractor classification disputes or disagreements over which company is responsible for providing coverage are common in roofer workers’ compensation claims. To protect your health and your rights to benefits, take these steps immediately after a fall:
- Notify your employer or the general contractor in writing as soon as possible, and hold onto a copy of everything you send.
- Get medical attention right away, and make sure the treating provider clearly documents the details of the fall.
- Photograph the site, the equipment, and any conditions that contributed to your fall before anything is moved or altered.
- Avoid signing anything from an insurer or employer until you get legal help, regardless of how routine the paperwork seems.
Classification disputes are common in roofing cases. An experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer can identify which party is responsible for your coverage and take the steps necessary to hold them accountable.
Injured in a Roofing Fall? Consult Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
When Fort Lauderdale roofers suffer on-the-job injuries, the Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A., acts as a strong legal ally on their side. You can trust our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer to protect your rights throughout the claims process and fight for the maximum amount of benefits you deserve. Contact us today and request a consultation at our Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach office.
Sources:
myfloridacfo.com/division/wc/employer/coverage-requirements
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/Sections/0440.02