Everyone has a bad day at work every once in awhile, but for the most part we expect to go to the job, do our work, and earn our wages. What we do not expect is to be injured on the job.  Unfortunately, in some lines of work, it is a common occurrence. Construction workers and other types of physical laborers are some of the fields of work which are often filled with dangerous situations that can cause injuries. The healthcare field is another such line of work; those who spend their lives taking care of injured people often incur injuries of their own in the course of their work.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a form of social insurance that provides payment for lost wages and coverage of medical benefits to employees who are injured on the job. It is required by the state, and the insurance policies are purchased by the employers. Workers’ compensation has a long history and has evolved over time to become what it is today. Florida’s Division of Workers’ Compensation website offers a wealth of information on the topic of workers’ compensation and states that its goal is to make sure that resources are available to anyone interested or involved in the system.

Challenging Existing Workers’ Compensation Law

As evidenced by the storied history of workers’ compensation discussed above, modification of the system is often necessary to keep up with changing times. Currently, the Florida Supreme Court is preparing to hear a case that stemmed from a hospital employee’s injury sustained on the job working as a nurse. In this case the legal dispute has centered on a move by lawmakers in 2003 to eliminate a type of benefits for partial disability and the issue now centers on a challenge to state workers-compensation insurance laws that were put into place over a decade ago.

How Much Am I Entitled To?

The amount you can receive if you are hurt on the job is set forth in Florida Statutes Title XXXI Chapter 440.14 Determination of Pay.  In general, the amount is calculated based on the average weekly pay earned in the 13 weeks preceding the accident causing the injury. There are, of course, nuances as far as how this calculation is performed, including:

• length of employment;
• the age and experience level of the injured employee;
• seasonal nature of employment; and
• part time status of employee.

I Have Been Injured on the Job – Who Can I Go to for Help?

In some cases, the process may be very straightforward and simple. However, you may find yourself in a case that is more complex and nuanced. If you have been hurt on the job, we encourage you to reach out to a legal professional to learn your rights. You do not have to navigate the legal system on your own – there are attorneys available who want to help you find the relief you are entitled to. Contact an attorney who can help you today.