Stuart Workplace Accident Lawyer
Every day, employees throughout Stuart, Florida, go to work with the expectation of a safe environment. Unfortunately, workplace accidents and injuries can still occur, often leading to devastating consequences. If you’ve been injured at work, you may be entitled to compensation. At Lance P. Richard, P.A., our Stuart workplace accident lawyers specialize in personal injury law, helping clients understand their rights and navigate the legal landscape.
What To Do After a Workplace Injury in Florida
If you’ve been injured at work, first seek immediate medical attention. Even if the injury seems minor initially, some conditions can worsen over time. After addressing immediate medical concerns, inform your employer about the incident as soon as possible, providing a detailed account of what happened. Document everything – it could be crucial for your compensation claim later.
Can You Sue Your Employer for a Workplace Injury in Florida?
In Florida, workers’ compensation laws generally protect employers from being sued directly for workplace injuries. However, in certain exceptional circumstances, an employee might be able to sue their employer outside of workers’ compensation. These exceptions usually involve intentional or grossly negligent actions on the employer’s part.
Here are a few examples:
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Intentional Harm: If an employer intentionally causes harm to an employee, this could warrant a lawsuit outside of the workers’ compensation system. For instance, if an employer physically attacks an employee or knowingly exposes them to a hazardous condition with the intention of causing harm, the employer could be sued for damages.
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Gross Negligence: Gross negligence refers to a severe, voluntary disregard for the need to use reasonable care. If an employer’s gross negligence leads to an employee’s injury, this could be grounds for a lawsuit. For example, if an employer is aware of a dangerous condition at the workplace and deliberately fails to rectify the situation or warn employees, leading to an accident, this could be considered gross negligence.
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Failure to Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Employers in Florida are legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer does not have this insurance, you may be able to sue them directly for damages related to a workplace injury.
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Defective Products or Toxic Substances: If an employee is injured due to a defective product or toxic substance, the employer can be sued if they were aware of the danger and did not take appropriate action.
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Violation of Safety Regulations: Employers who violate safety regulations and standards, leading to employee injuries, may be sued outside the workers’ compensation system.
Navigating these exceptions can be complicated, and it is very important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. At Lance P. Richard, P.A., we’re committed to ensuring workers in Stuart, Florida, understand their rights and legal options after a workplace injury. If you’ve been injured due to the intentional actions or gross negligence of your employer, we can help evaluate your situation and determine the best course of action.
Contact Stuart, Florida Personal Injury Attorney Lance P. Richard, P.A.
At Lance P. Richard, P.A., our priority is advocating for the rights of workplace accident victims. You don’t have to face this difficult situation alone – we’re here to offer guidance and legal support. If you’ve suffered a workplace injury in Stuart, Florida, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll discuss your case, evaluate your options, and chart the best path forward to ensure you receive the compensation you need and deserve.
