I Forgot to Wear Eye Protection: Can I Still File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Tampa?

Eye protection is crucial for many American workers. However, it is also a piece of safety equipment that is all too easy to forget. All it takes is a single moment of distraction, and you’re suddenly operating equipment without the necessary eye protection. What happens if you suffer an eye injury as a result? Can you still file a workers’ compensation claim in Tampa, even if you were partly to blame for your own injuries?

Workers’ Compensation Is a No-Fault System. What Does That Mean?

Workers’ compensation in Tampa is a “no-fault” insurance system. This means that you can file a claim even if you caused your own workplace injury. As a result, your failure to wear eye protection should not be a problem as you pursue compensation for your eye injuries. The workers’ compensation system ensures that in the vast majority of workplace accidents, employees can cover their medical treatments while accessing a portion of their lost income.

Eye Injuries May Represent Permanent Disabilities

Some eye injuries are relatively minor, while others represent permanent disabilities. The most obvious example is blindness, which can easily occur in an accident where a worker forgets to wear eye protection. If you are now visually impaired, you need to pursue maximum compensation via your workers’ comp claim. You may struggle to earn income in the future, and your claim could help you achieve financial security throughout the rest of your life.

Speak with a lawyer when approaching your claim. These legal professionals can help you maximize your compensation. You should also consult a lawyer before accepting any kind of settlement offer. Insurance companies may be all too eager to offer you a “lowball” sum, but you may be eligible for much more.

What if My Employer Never Gave Me Eye Protection?

If your employer never even provided you with eye protection, this may represent a violation of safety regulations and employment laws in Florida. Consider reporting this safety violation as you file your accident report. Remember, your employer cannot retaliate against you for “blowing the whistle” on safety violations.

In certain situations involving gross or reckless negligence, you may be able to sue your employer for failing to provide eye protection. This is something you might want to discuss with your lawyer, as it can potentially lead to higher levels of compensation.

Can a Tampa Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me? 

A Tampa workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help if you’re struggling with an eye injury. As a true “no-fault” system, workers’ comp is still available even if you made some kind of mistake leading up to your accident. This includes forgetting to wear eye protection. Speak with a lawyer if you’re experiencing any kind of pushback with your claim. The Franco Law Firm may be able to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

Source: 

osha.gov/eye-face-protection