Back Injuries

Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, is a law firm specializing in helping employees who have suffered work-related injuries, including back injuries. Back injuries can be debilitating and can significantly impact an employee’s ability to work and enjoy life.

Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits are available to help injured workers’ cover their medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. At Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, our experienced attorneys are committed to helping our clients navigate the complex workers’ compensation system and ensure they receive the benefits they deserve.

Why Are Back Injuries So Common Among Workers’?

Back injuries are a common workplace injury in Florida for several reasons. First, many jobs in Florida require heavy lifting, repetitive motions, and prolonged periods of standing or sitting.

These activities can put a significant amount of strain on the back and increase the risk of injury.

Many workplaces in Florida focus on industries such as construction, agriculture, and healthcare that involve physically demanding tasks. These industries often require workers’ to lift heavy objects, operate heavy machinery, or provide manual labor, all of which can lead to back injuries.

Additionally, many workers’ may not receive adequate training on lifting and moving heavy objects or performing tasks to minimize the risk of injury. This lack of training can lead to poor posture and lifting techniques that can put undue stress on the back.

Some employers may not prioritize the safety of their workers’ or may fail to provide the necessary safety equipment and training to prevent back injuries. Implementing back braces, ergonomic workstations, and training is instrumental in avoiding back injuries.

Common Types of Work-Related Back Injuries

Florida workers’ are at risk of suffering a variety of back injuries on the job; some of the most common include:

• Strains and sprains: These injuries occur when the muscles, tendons, or ligaments in the back are stretched or torn due to lifting, twisting, or other repetitive motions.
• Herniated discs: Herniated discs occur when the cushion between the vertebrae in the spine is damaged, and the soft material inside the disc bulges out, putting pressure on the nerves in the back.
• Fractured vertebrae: This is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the spine, often resulting from a fall or other traumatic event.
• Pinched nerves: When a nerve in the back is compressed or irritated, it can cause pain, tingling, or weakness in the back or other parts of the body.
• Spinal cord injuries: These are more serious injuries that occur when the spinal cord is damaged, often due to a traumatic event such as a fall or motor vehicle accident. Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or total paralysis and can be life-threatening.

These back injuries can be painful and can significantly impact an employee’s ability to work and enjoy life.

Work-Related Back Injury FAQs

How do I report a work-related back injury in Florida?

Employees should report a work-related back injury to their employer as soon as possible but no later than 30 days after the injury. The report should be in writing and include the date and time of the injury, the location of the injury, and a description of how the injury occurred.

Can I choose my doctor for a work-related back injury?

Employees must choose a doctor from their employer’s list of approved medical providers for their initial treatment. However, employees may be able to switch to a different doctor if they are not satisfied with their initial treatment.

What benefits are available for work back injuries?

Workers’ compensation benefits are available for work-related back injuries in Florida, including medical, lost wages, and disability benefits.

How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim for a work-related back injury?

Employees have up to two years from their injury to file a workers’ compensation claim in Florida. However, it is recommended that employees file their claims as soon as possible to ensure that they receive the benefits they are entitled to.

Can I sue my employer for a work-related back injury in Florida?

In most cases, employees cannot sue their employer for work-related injuries in Florida. Workers’ compensation benefits are typically the exclusive remedy for employees who suffer work-related injuries. However, there may be exceptions to this rule, such as if the employer acted intentionally or if a third party was responsible for the injury.

Can I receive compensation for pain and suffering from a work-related back injury in Florida?

In general, workers’ compensation benefits in Florida do not compensate for pain and suffering. However, in some cases, employees may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against a third party that was responsible for their injury.

What should I do if my workers’ compensation claim for a work-related back injury is denied in Florida?

If your workers’ compensation claim for a work-related back injury is denied in Florida, you may have the right to appeal the decision. You should consult an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to help you navigate the appeals process.

Can I return to work after a work-related back injury in Florida?

Whether or not an employee can return to work after a work-related back injury in Florida depends on the severity of the injury and the nature of the employee’s job. Some employees may be able to return to work with restrictions or accommodations, while others may be unable to return to work at all.

How long do workers’ compensation benefits last for a work-related back injury in Florida?

The length that workers’ compensation benefits last for a work-related back injury in Florida depends on the severity of the injury and the nature of the employee’s job. In general, temporary disability benefits are available for up to 104 weeks, while permanent disability benefits may be available if the injury is severe and the employee cannot work.

Can I be fired for filing a workers’ compensation claim for a work-related back injury in Florida?

In Florida, it is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees for filing workers’ compensation claims. If an employee is fired or otherwise retaliated against for filing a workers’ compensation claim, they may have the right to pursue legal action against their employer.

Our Legal Team Can Help You Recover the Benefits You Deserve

Work-related back injuries are a common issue for employees in Florida, particularly those in physically demanding jobs. These injuries can be debilitating and significantly impact an employee’s ability to work and enjoy life.

Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits are available to help injured workers’ cover their medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. However, navigating the workers’ compensation system in Florida can be complex and challenging, which is why it is important to seek the advice of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.

At Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, we can help injured workers’ understand their rights, advocate on their behalf, and ensure they receive the benefits they deserve.

By taking proactive steps to prevent back injuries and seeking legal support when necessary, employees can protect themselves and their livelihoods in the event of a work-related back injury in Florida.