You are a hard-working individual, giving your job everything you’ve got. But then, the unexpected happens – an injury that leaves you unable to work. It’s a stressful situation, but luckily there’s workers’ comp in Florida to help ease the burden.

However, before you start counting on workers’ comp to cover all your expenses and provide peace of mind, there are some important things you need to know. While Florida workers’ comp is designed to protect employees who suffer injuries or illnesses on the job, there are some exceptions.

In this blog post, an experienced Boca Raton workers’ compensation lawyer explains what Florida workers’ comp does not cover.

1. Treatment for Mental Health Disorders Not Related to a Physical Injury

Workers’ comp provides coverage and benefits for employees who suffer physical injuries while on the job. This includes accidents, illnesses, or conditions that result from the work environment or specific tasks performed at work.

Mental health issues are generally not covered by workers compensation, unless they were caused by a physical injury or illness you suffered while doing your job.  For example, if you develop depression as a result of chronic pain from a work-related injury, you may qualify for benefits.

Seek legal guidance from a skilled workers comp attorney in Boca Raton so you can get the support you need during this challenging time.

2. Pain and Suffering Damages Are Not Included in Workers’ Compensation

Workplace injuries can cause significant physical pain, emotional trauma, and mental anguish. Unfortunately, workers’ compensation in Florida does not include benefits for pain and suffering.

Workers’ compensation is designed to provide financial assistance for medical bills, lost wages, and vocational rehabilitation. It aims to help injured workers get back on their feet without having to go through a lengthy legal process. However, it does not offer compensation for non-economic damages.

3. Injuries Suffered During Your Commute

While workers’ compensation typically provides coverage for job-related injuries, commuting accidents are generally not included.

The reason for this exclusion is that an employee’s commute is considered a personal activity rather than a work-related duty. This means that if you get injured in a car accident on your way to or from work, you will likely have to rely on your personal auto insurance policy for any medical expenses or other damages.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you were running an errand for your employer while commuting or if you were driving a company-owned vehicle, then your injuries may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

Consulting with an experienced Boca Raton workers comp lawyer can help determine whether you may be entitled to any benefits in such cases.

4. Injuries Suffered During a Company Social Event

Attending a company Christmas party or Easter egg hunt can be a great way to unwind and bond with your colleagues outside of the office. However, if an injury occurs during one of these events, you may not file a workers comp claim.

Workers’ compensation covers injuries that occur within the scope of employment. The injuries suffered during a social event fall outside of this scope. This is because these events are considered voluntary and unrelated to work duties.

However, injuries may be covered if you were required to attend a company event.

5. Injuries Resulting From Fights Between Employees

In any workplace, conflicts and disagreements can arise between employees. While employers have a responsibility to maintain a safe working environment, injuries caused by fights between employees are not covered by Florida workers’ compensation.

An Experienced Boca Raton Workers Comp Attorney Will Explain Your Rights!

It is important to understand the limitations of Florida workers’ compensation coverage. While these benefits provide essential support for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, there are certain scenarios where coverage may not apply.

If your claim has been denied or if you have questions about your workers’ compensation rights, you should seek legal advice. An experienced Boca Raton workers comp lawyer will guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected.

We offer each new client a free case review. Call us now at (786) 686-2857 to schedule your initial consultation!