Orange City Workers' Compensation Attorneys

Helping Injured Workers in Volusia County & Beyond

Workplace accidents can happen in any industry, and they can cause serious injuries. If you were hurt on the job, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. At Politis & Matovina, P.A., we represent injured workers in Orange City and throughout Volusia County. Our Orange City work accident lawyers have more than 30 years of experience, and we have a proven track record of success. We know how to navigate the workers' compensation system, and we can help you fight for the benefits you are owed.

For a free consultation with our team, call (386) 333-6613 or contact us online.

Common Types of Workplace Accidents

A workplace accident is an unexpected and unplanned event that occurs during the course of work activities, resulting in injury, illness, or property damage. These accidents can happen in any work environment and can vary in severity. Identifying and understanding these incidents helps in implementing preventive measures to ensure workplace safety.

Here are common types of workplace accidents:

• Slips, Trips, and Falls: These occur due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, cluttered walkways, or lack of proper signage, leading to slips, trips, or falls.
• Falling Objects: Items falling from shelves, improperly secured loads, or unstable structures can cause injuries to workers below.
• Struck-by Accidents: Employees can be struck by moving objects like vehicles, equipment, or tools, often due to lack of visibility or improper handling.
• Caught-in or Caught-between Accidents: These involve body parts getting caught or crushed between machinery, equipment, or structures, leading to severe injuries.
• Overexertion: Straining due to lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying heavy objects can lead to musculoskeletal injuries or sprains.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome resulting from repetitive motions or poor ergonomics can cause discomfort or chronic pain.
• Contact with Hazardous Substances: Exposure to chemicals, toxins, or allergens can lead to skin irritations, respiratory problems, or other health issues.
• Electrical Accidents: Contact with live wires, faulty equipment, or improper use of electrical tools can result in shocks, burns, or electrocution.
• Machinery Accidents: Improper use, lack of training, or equipment malfunctions can lead to accidents involving machinery, causing severe injuries or amputations.
• Vehicle Accidents: Mishaps involving company vehicles, forklifts, or other mobile equipment used within the workplace can cause injuries or fatalities.
• Fire and Explosions: Faulty equipment, flammable materials, or improper handling of combustible substances can lead to fires or explosions, causing injuries and property damage.
• Workplace Violence: Physical assaults, threats, or aggressive behavior from coworkers, customers, or third parties can result in injuries or psychological trauma.

What Benefits Are Available to Injured Workers in Orange City?

Most employers in Florida are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. This insurance provides benefits to workers who are injured on the job, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. In exchange for these benefits, workers are generally not allowed to sue their employers for negligence.

Workers' compensation benefits in Florida include:

• Medical benefits. Workers' compensation will cover the cost of all necessary medical treatment, including doctor's visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and medical equipment.
• Wage replacement. If you are unable to work while you recover, you may be entitled to wage replacement benefits. These benefits are typically equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a certain limit.
• Disability benefits. If you are permanently disabled, you may be entitled to additional benefits. The amount of these benefits will depend on the extent of your disability and your earning capacity.
• Death benefits. If a worker is killed on the job, their surviving family members may be entitled to death benefits. These benefits can help cover funeral expenses and replace the deceased worker's income.

Workers' compensation claims are supposed to be straightforward, but they are often complicated by disputes over the extent of the worker's injuries and whether the injuries were actually work-related. An experienced attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence to prove your claim and fight for the benefits you are owed.

Can I Sue My Employer for a Work Accident in Orange City?

In most cases, you cannot sue your employer for a work accident in Florida. Workers' compensation is generally your exclusive remedy for a work-related injury. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

You may be able to sue your employer if:

• Your employer does not carry workers' compensation insurance
• Your employer intentionally injured you
• Your employer's actions were so reckless that they showed a “deliberate disregard” for your safety

If you are able to sue your employer, you may be entitled to additional damages, including pain and suffering. An experienced attorney can review your case and help you determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit.

How Our Orange City Work Accident Lawyers Can Help

At Politis & Matovina, P.A., we know how to navigate the workers' compensation system, and we can help you fight for the benefits you are owed. Our firm can help you file a claim, gather the necessary evidence to prove your case, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. If your claim is denied, we can represent you in all hearings and appeals.

Our team is committed to helping injured workers get back on their feet. We offer free initial consultations, and we do not collect any fees unless we win your case. Our Orange City work accident lawyers are available to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Call (386) 333-6613 or contact us online to get started with a free consultation.