Landscaping Worker Injuries

Dedicated Miami Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Connecting Employees With the Benefits They Need to Make as Full a Recovery as Possible

Landscaping workers are essential in creating and maintaining beautiful outdoor environments, but their job comes with significant risks. These workers are often exposed to various daily hazards that can lead to serious injuries. Understanding the common injuries and issues faced by landscaping workers, as well as the implications of oftentimes being a seasonal worker, is crucial when seeking workers' compensation benefits. At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we have assembled an experienced team of Miami workers’ compensation lawyers who are committed to helping injured landscaping workers obtain the benefits they deserve.

Landscaping is a physically demanding job that involves using heavy equipment, handling chemicals, and working in diverse weather conditions. Common landscaping worker injuries include:

• Musculoskeletal Injuries: The repetitive lifting, bending, and carrying of heavy materials can lead to strains, sprains, and neck and back injuries.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Working with sharp tools and machinery increases the risk of cuts and lacerations, which can sometimes be severe.
• Heat-Related Illnesses: Prolonged exposure to the sun can result in heat exhaustion or heat stroke, both of which are serious medical conditions.
• Chemical Exposure: Pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals used in landscaping can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, or more severe health problems if not handled properly.
• Eye Injuries: Debris from mowing, trimming, or using power tools can cause eye injuries if proper protective gear is not worn.
• Slip and Fall Accidents: Uneven terrain, wet surfaces, and obstacles can lead to slip and fall accidents, resulting in injuries such as fractures or concussions.

Many landscaping workers are employed on a seasonal basis, which may seem like it would complicate the process of filing for workers' compensation benefits. However, being a seasonal worker does not disqualify you from receiving benefits if you are injured on the job. The key factor is whether you were performing work-related duties at the time of the injury.

Seasonal workers are entitled to the same protections and benefits as full-time employees under Florida workers' compensation laws. If you are injured while performing your landscaping duties, you have the right to file a claim, regardless of the duration of your employment.

To be eligible for workers' compensation benefits, the injury must arise out of and in the course of employment. Landscaping workers face numerous workplace hazards, which can cause a wide range of injuries; however, some of the most common landscaping worker injuries include:

Equipment-Related Accidents

Injuries sustained while operating a lawnmower, chainsaw, or other landscaping equipment are common. For example, if you accidentally cut yourself with a hedge trimmer or suffer a back injury from using a heavy lawnmower, you may be eligible for benefits.

Chemical Burns

If you suffer chemical burns or respiratory issues from handling pesticides or fertilizers, you can file a claim for workers' compensation to pay compensation and medical benefits.

Heat-Related Illnesses

If you experience heat exhaustion or heat stroke while working outdoors, this can qualify you for benefits. Heat-related illnesses are a significant risk for landscaping workers, especially during the hot summer months.

Slip and Fall Injuries

If you slip on wet grass, trip over landscaping materials, or fall from a height while trimming trees, you can file a claim for any resulting injuries. In fact, workplace falls are one of the most common workplace injuries across all industries, including landscaping.

Repetitive Strain Injuries

Repetitive strain injuries, also referred to as repetitive stress injuries, such as tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome caused by repetitive motions, such as raking or using hand tools, are also covered under workers' compensation.

Filing a workers' compensation can be challenging, especially for landscaping workers who may face unique risks and employment situations. At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we understand the difficulties you encounter and are here to help you secure all the benefits you deserve. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options. Whether you are a full-time or seasonal worker, we are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you recover from your injuries. We do not get paid unless and until you are.