Types of Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries can take many forms, affecting various body parts and impacting your ability to work and enjoy life. Whether a sudden accident or a condition that develops over time, these injuries can be severe and require proper medical attention and legal support. At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A., our Miami workers’ compensation lawyers understand the challenges when dealing with workplace injuries. These can include head injuries, neck and back injuries, shoulder and knee injuries, repetitive stress injuries, sprains and strains, and overexertion injuries.
At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we aim to support you through the legal process while you focus on your recovery. Our knowledgeable and respected workplace injury lawyers have served Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Broward County since 1976. We are dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve on account of your injuries. Many attorneys, both local and in other jurisdictions, have turned to our Miami firm when seeking co-counsel on complex cases requiring a high degree of skill and resources. Contact us at (877) 448-8585 to schedule a free initial consultation with a Florida injury lawyer on our team to learn more about how we can assist you during the Florida Workers’ Compensation process.
Most Common Types of Workplace Injuries in South FloridaWorkplace injuries can take many forms, affecting different body parts and impacting one's ability to work and enjoy life. Whether a sudden accident or a condition that develops over time, workplace injuries can be serious and require proper medical attention and legal support.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, private industry employers reported 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2022. This figure represents a 7.5 percent increase from 2021, driven by a 4.5 percent rise in injuries, totaling 2.3 million cases, and a 26.1 percent increase in illnesses, reaching 460,700 cases.
While workplace injuries can take many forms, the following are some of the most common types of workplace accidents and injuries that our attorneys handle on behalf of our clients.
Head InjuriesHead injuries are common in many workplaces, especially in the construction, manufacturing, and transportation sectors. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries. For instance, a construction worker at a Miami building site might suffer a head injury from falling debris or a slip-and-fall accident. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness and long-term cognitive issues.
Neck and Back InjuriesNeck and back injuries often occur in physically demanding jobs such as warehouse work, healthcare, and landscaping. These injuries can result from heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or awkward positions. For example, a warehouse worker at Amazon's fulfillment center in Fort Lauderdale might injure their back while lifting heavy boxes. Neck and back injuries can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and long-term disability if not treated properly.
Shoulder and Knee Injuries Shoulder and knee injuries are common in the workplace, especially if your job involves heavy lifting or repetitive movements. When you injure these vital joints, it can severely impact your ability to perform daily tasks and maintain productivity at work. If you've hurt your shoulder or knee at work, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately to prevent further damage. Common shoulder injuries include: rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, and dislocated shoulder. Common knee injuries include: meniscus tears, ACL injuries, and patellar tendinitis. Repetitive Stress InjuriesRepetitive stress injuries (RSIs) are common in jobs that involve repeated motions, such as typing, assembly line work, or using vibrating tools. An office worker in Plantation might develop carpal tunnel syndrome from constant typing, while a factory worker might suffer from tendonitis due to repetitive use of machinery. RSIs can cause pain, numbness, and decreased strength, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.
Sprains & StrainsSprains and strains are frequent in jobs requiring physical activity, such as retail, hospitality, and healthcare. These injuries can occur from overextending or twisting ligaments and muscles. A nurse at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami might sprain an ankle while rushing to assist a patient, or a retail worker at Publix might strain a muscle while stocking shelves. Sprains and strains can cause significant pain and swelling, often requiring rest and rehabilitation.
Overexertion InjuriesOverexertion injuries are caused by excessive physical effort. They are often seen in jobs involving lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy objects. For instance, a UPS delivery driver in Miami might suffer from overexertion while unloading heavy packages. These injuries can result in muscle tears, joint damage, and severe fatigue. Overexertion injuries are one of the leading causes of workplace injury claims in Florida.
Compensation for Common Workplace InjuriesIn addition to physical pain and suffering, workplace injuries often result in various psychological and behavioral responses, including stress, reluctance to return to work, and other personal and social challenges.
In Florida, workers' compensation law provides several different types of benefits for those injured on the job:
- Medical Benefits
- Wage Replacement Benefits
- Permanent Impairment Benefits
- Vocational Rehabilitation
- Death Benefits
If you’ve been hurt in an on-the-job accident, reach out to the dedicated Miami workers’ compensation lawyers at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada for immediate assistance. Our Florida work injury lawyers are committed to helping you understand your rights and secure the compensation you deserve on account of your injuries. We offer free consultations to all injured workers and will not receive payment for our services unless and until we can recover benefits on your behalf. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call the Miami workers’ compensation lawyers at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada at (305) 448-8585. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.