How Do You Get Compensation After a Slip and Fall in a Tampa Workplace?

According to OSHA, slips, trips, and falls represent 10% of all workplace injuries. Virtually every type of employee is vulnerable to this type of accident. These include construction workers, office workers, warehouse workers, and many others. If you slipped and fell while at work, you might be wondering about potential compensation. Can a workers’ compensation lawyer in Tampa help you cover your medical bills and lost income?

Workers’ Compensation Should Provide Coverage for Slips, Trips, and Falls 

If you became injured after a fall at your workplace, the Workers’ Compensation Program in Florida should cover your medical bills and lost income. For example, you might have suffered a bad sprain after stumbling on a loose electrical cord. Your doctor might have recommended two weeks of rest, preventing you from earning income during this period.

In addition, you might have incurred significant costs related to rehabilitation, X-rays, and other medical services. Workers’ compensation should cover two-thirds of your 14 days of missed income – plus the full cost of your medical costs. As long as your medical treatment was necessary and directly related to your injuries, you should receive full compensation.

Some Falls Are More Serious Than Others 

A fall can lead to much worse injuries than a sprained ankle. Seniors are particularly vulnerable to more severe consequences, such as broken hips and head injuries. These older workers may have more brittle bones, making fractures more likely.

In this situation, your fall may have completely ended your ability to earn income. A serious head injury may have left you with cognitive decline. Alternatively, you might have become confined to a wheelchair after suffering a major hip fracture.

In this situation, it may make more sense to negotiate for a settlement from workers’ compensation instead of weekly payments. This is something you may wish to speak to your lawyer about. You should pursue maximum compensation if your fall has led to a permanent disability.

 Can I Sue My Employer for Causing My Slip and Fall? 

If you believe that your employer contributed directly to your slip and fall (perhaps by violating a safety guideline), you might wonder about suing them. However, employment laws in Florida prevent employees from directly suing their employers.

The only exception is if your fall was caused by a third-party contractor. In this situation, it might be possible to sue directly – and this could result in more compensation to cover your injuries.

Can a Tampa Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me? 

A workers’ compensation lawyer in Tampa may be able to help you cover your medical bills and lost income after a slip and fall. These types of injuries are usually preventable, and many are caused by safety violations. You shouldn’t have to face excessive financial pressures because of a fall – so contact an experienced lawyer today for further guidance. Choose The Franco Law Firm – and get started with a consultation.

Sources: 

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