Work-Related Foot Injuries in Fort Lauderdale: Your Rights in a Florida Workers’ Compensation Claim
Many Fort Lauderdale workers spend all day walking job sites, standing on concrete floors, or navigating unstable conditions. This increases the risk of work-related foot injuries.
While they may not get as much attention as some other conditions, foot injuries are just as capable of turning your daily life upside down. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer explains your rights to benefits and what it takes to build a strong claim.
Foot Injuries That Qualify for Workers’ Compensation in Fort Lauderdale
Work-related foot injuries in Fort Lauderdale are common in construction, warehousing, healthcare, retail, and food service, but they can happen across virtually every industry.
Section 440.13 of the Florida Statutes requires employers and their insurers to cover all medically necessary treatment for injuries that arise out of and in the course of employment.
That includes work-related foot injuries. Common types of foot injuries that may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Fort Lauderdale include:
- Crush injuries and fractures from falling objects or getting feet caught under equipment, vehicles, or materials on a job site.
- Stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and heel pain due to prolonged walking or standing on hard surfaces.
- Lacerations and puncture wounds from sharp objects, exposed nails, broken glass, or cutting tools.
- Achilles tendon tears from a sudden forceful movement, fall, or misstep.
- Ankle sprains and fractures from trips, falls, uneven surfaces, or slipping on wet floors.
Some of these injuries heal with rest, a boot, and physical therapy. Others require surgery and can put you out of work for months.
Why Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Comp Foot Injury Claims Run Into Trouble and How To Protect Yours
Workers’ compensation claims involving foot injuries in Fort Lauderdale are frequently disputed by insurance companies, especially when painful foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, develop over time. To protect your benefits, document what happened from the start:
- Report your injury or the onset of symptoms to your employer in writing as soon as possible.
- If your injury happened in a single incident, photograph the scene, identify witnesses, and make sure the incident report captures exactly what happened.
- If your injury developed over time, document your symptoms and the job tasks that aggravate them.
- Visit an authorized treating physician, follow their recommendations, and keep copies of all medical records and receipts.
Even if insurers try to blame your injuries on pre-existing conditions or say they happen outside your job, you may still be entitled to benefits through the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation, provided there are medical records showing a connection to your job.
Talk to an Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Foot injuries are common among Fort Lauderdale workers and can cause chronic pain and lingering impairments. The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A. can review what happened, gather evidence, and fight for the benefits you deserve.
To protect your rights, contact our Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer. Request a consultation at our Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach office today.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/Sections/0440.13.html