Financial Options for Injured Roofers in Tampa

According to numerous statistics, roofing is one of the most dangerous trades in the nation. Each year, countless roofers across the United States suffer numerous injuries – and many of these accidents occur in Florida. Roofing is a major industry in the Sunshine State, as homeowners and businesses must inspect and repair their roofs frequently due to extreme weather. What can you do if you were injured in a roofing accident? Can a Tampa workers’ comp lawyer help you pursue financial compensation?

Recent Roofing Accident Highlights Multi-Faceted Industry Hazards

While the most obvious roofing accident is a fall, this is not the only hazard faced by workers in Florida. A recent incident in the Tampa Bay Area shows that many different types of accidents can injure roofers, including limb injuries caused by power tools. In this incident, a roofer in Palm Harbor had to be airlifted to the nearest hospital by first responders after a grinder injury.

The grinder caused a severe cut to his upper arm, and firefighters arrived quickly to apply a tourniquet. ABC Action News notes that the victim was subsequently lowered from the roof using special equipment – highlighting the serious nature of the arm injury. It is likely that the victim faced severe blood loss – potentially due to a severed artery. Fortunately, the worker’s condition eventually stabilized, and he survived the incident.

However, there is no way of telling whether this grinder injury led to lifelong disabilities. In these kinds of news reports, journalists never follow up with workers months or years after their accidents to learn how accidents have irrevocably altered their lives. All the public hears is that the victim “survived” – but with little additional context.

Workers’ Compensation Claims Represent the Primary Source of Financial Support After Roofing Accidents

A workers’ compensation claim is the most common source of financial support after a roofing accident. As long as you are an “employee” and not an independent contractor, you should be able to file a claim and get support for missed wages and medical bills. Even if you’re not legally allowed to work in Florida, you should still have the right to file a workers’ comp claim.

An alternative option is to file a personal injury lawsuit, but this is only possible under certain circumstances. Consider discussing this possibility with an experienced lawyer, as this option could potentially provide more compensation than a workers’ comp claim.

Can a Tampa Workers’ Comp Lawyer Help After a Roofing Accident?

A Tampa workers’ comp lawyer may be able to help after a roofing accident. These legal professionals understand how life-altering roofing accidents can be – and they can help you fight for your rights as an injured employee. You may have more legal options than you realize after an accident, so speak with a lawyer today for personalized guidance. Contact The Franco Law Firm to get started on an action plan.

Sources: 

abcactionnews.com/news/region-pinellas/man-airlifted-to-hospital-after-roofing-injury-in-palm-harbor

iibec.org/roofing-fatalities-up-15-in-2019/

thesafetymag.com/ca/us-news/10-of-the-most-dangerous-jobs-in-america/256591