Every 10 seconds, a worker in the U.S. is injured on the job. While some occupations are more hazardous than others, injuries can occur in virtually any work environment. If you are injured on the job, it can be difficult to know where to turn and who to trust. After a serious on-the-job injury, many workers assume that their only option is to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, some cases may involve third parties (other businesses, product manufacturers, etc.) whose negligence contributed to their incident. In those situations, the injured individual may have a basis for filing a personal injury lawsuit against the third party.
At Mase Seitz Briggs, our Miami workplace injury lawyers understand the complexities of work-related accidents. We go beyond the basics of filing claims – we investigate the full scope of liability to determine whether any third parties can be held accountable for your injuries. Contact our office for a free, confidential consultation.
Common Causes of Workplace Injuries
Many people assume that a workplace injury involves some sort of major accident, but most injuries occur while completing everyday tasks. A survey by the United States Bureau of Labor showed that private industry employers reported an estimated 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in a single year.
Workers can be injured in a variety of ways, but the most common causes of serious workplace injuries are:
- Contact with objects and equipment;
- Slips, trips, and falls;
- Electrocution;
- Transportation-related injuries;
- Insufficient training; and
- Lack of safety equipment.
Regardless of the cause of your injury, it is imperative that you seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Notify your supervisor about the injury and follow all necessary reporting requirements. Once you are able, contact our office to speak directly with a Miami workplace injury lawyer.
Types of Workplace Injuries
Any injury requiring medical treatment that occurs within the course of employment may result in employer liability. If you are injured while working, it is vital to document your claim immediately.
Not only do you need to report your injury to your employer, but you should also seek emergency medical treatment. Do not sign anything unless you have spoken with an experienced Miami workplace injury lawyer.
Types of workplace injuries can include but are not limited to:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI);
- Broken bones;
- Severe cuts and lacerations;
- Internal organ damage;
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Neck and back trauma; and
- Sprains, strains, or torn ligaments.
Who Is Liable After a Workplace Accident?
If injured in the workplace, you may be able to bring a workplace accident lawsuit against a third party or your employer. For instance, if your employer was reckless or grossly negligent in disregarding your safety and it led to a workplace accident, Florida law may allow you to recover punitive damages from them.
Punitive damages are meant to punish defendants and deter others from engaging in similar misconduct. You can also bring a workplace accident lawsuit in Florida against your employer if you were hurt and they failed to have worker’s compensation insurance.
Holding a Third Party Accountable for Your Injuries
A third party may also be responsible for your injury, even if your employer pays worker’s compensation. Third-party claims are especially common in construction and industrial settings, where multiple employers and contractors may be working on the same site. Potentially liable third parties could include:
- Subcontractors or independent contractors;
- Equipment manufacturers or distributors;
- Property or site owners;
- Vendors or delivery companies; or
- Negligent drivers or outside service providers.
If you were injured because of a subcontractor’s unsafe practices, a defective piece of machinery, or a negligent driver making a delivery, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against those parties. For example, where another employee injured you, either intentionally or negligently both the employer and employee could be liable for your injuries.
At Mase Seitz Briggs, we will conduct an independent investigation to determine who can be held responsible for your injuries. If you were injured on the job, contact our office to discuss your case with a Miami workplace accident lawyer.
What If I Was Partially to Blame for My Injuries?
It is never your job to determine who was at fault for your injuries. Your employer may still be liable, even if you were partially to blame. You may still be entitled to compensation even though your negligence contributed to your injuries. While it will not bar your recovery, the total amount of compensation that you receive may be reduced in proportion to your negligence.
A lawsuit based on personal injuries you suffered may allow you to recover both economic and noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering. Our Miami workplace injury lawyers will help you understand your legal rights and pursue the full compensation you are entitled to.
Why Hire an Attorney?
A workplace accident can result in serious, life-threatening injuries. You may be unable to work and provide for your family. Without the help of a knowledgeable Miami workplace accident lawyer, you may not be getting the compensation that you deserve. Our lawyers will fight to get you the maximum possible recovery available in your case.
Injured at Work? Contact Mase Seitz Briggs
If you were hurt on the job in Miami, South Florida, or elsewhere in Florida, you should contact a work-related injury lawyer. At Mase Seitz Briggs, our Miami workplace accident lawyers are known for their creativity when trying to get you or your loved one maximum compensation after a workplace accident.
We have recovered millions in jury verdicts and settlements on behalf of injury victims throughout the state. First and foremost, we are trial lawyers dedicated to getting the best possible outcome for each of our clients. We have not only represented thousands of injury victims and their families, but we have also successfully tried hundreds of cases.
Get the legal representation you deserve by calling our office at 305-602-4927. All consultations are free without the obligation to retain our services.
