Construction sites are among the most dangerous work environments in Florida. Falls from scaffolding or ladders, being struck by falling objects, equipment malfunctions, electrical hazards, and trench collapses are just some of the ways construction workers get seriously hurt on the job. These injuries are often severe and can result in long term disability or permanent impairment. Florida’s construction industry is heavily regulated and violations of safety standards can play a significant role in your workers’ compensation claim. Avera & Smith has experience handling complex construction accident cases and fighting for the full benefits injured workers deserve.

Railroad workers injured on the job are covered under a different legal framework than most employees. Rather than standard workers’ compensation, railroad workers are protected under the Federal Employers Liability Act — known as FELA — which allows injured workers to sue their employer directly for negligence. FELA cases require proving that the railroad’s negligence contributed to your injury and they are significantly more complex than standard workers’ compensation claims. Avera & Smith has the experience to handle FELA claims and fight for the maximum compensation available to injured railroad workers.

Workers injured on navigable waters — including offshore workers, dock workers, and crew members on vessels — are governed by a separate set of federal laws including the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and general maritime law. These laws provide important protections for injured maritime workers but navigating them without experienced legal representation is extremely difficult. If you were injured while working on or near Florida’s waterways Avera & Smith can evaluate which laws apply to your situation and fight to make sure your rights are fully protected.

Asbestos related illnesses, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, can take decades to develop after the initial exposure — making these cases uniquely challenging from a legal standpoint. Workers in construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and other industries were frequently exposed to asbestos before its dangers were widely regulated. If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos related illness as a result of workplace exposure you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits as well as additional compensation through asbestos trust funds or litigation. Avera & Smith can help you understand all available avenues for compensation.

Burn injuries in the workplace can result from fires, explosions, chemical exposure, electrical accidents, or contact with hot surfaces or steam. Serious burns can require extensive medical treatment including surgery, skin grafting, and long term rehabilitation and can result in permanent scarring and disability. Workers who suffer burn injuries on the job are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits covering their medical treatment and lost wages — and in cases where a third party’s negligence contributed to the accident additional compensation may be available. Avera & Smith fights to make sure burn injury victims receive every benefit they are entitled to.

Not all workplace injuries are the result of a single accident. Repetitive stress injuries — including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, rotator cuff injuries, and chronic back problems — develop over time as a result of performing the same motions repeatedly on the job. These injuries are just as compensable under Florida workers’ compensation law as sudden traumatic injuries but they are frequently disputed by insurance companies who argue the condition is not work related. Avera & Smith has experience building strong cases for workers with repetitive stress injuries and fighting back against insurance company denials.

Slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of workplace injuries in Florida. Wet floors, uneven surfaces, inadequate lighting, cluttered walkways, and improperly maintained equipment can all contribute to a serious fall at work. Depending on the circumstances a workplace slip and fall may give rise to a workers’ compensation claim, a premises liability claim against a third party, or both. Avera & Smith evaluates every angle of your case to make sure all available sources of compensation are pursued on your behalf.

Some workplace injuries aren’t physical accidents at all — they’re illnesses or diseases that develop as a direct result of conditions at work. Exposure to toxic chemicals, dust, mold, radiation, or other hazardous substances can cause serious health conditions that qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Florida. Occupational illness claims can be difficult to prove because establishing a direct link between workplace exposure and a medical diagnosis often requires expert testimony and thorough documentation. Avera & Smith has the experience and resources to build strong occupational illness claims and fight for the benefits you deserve.

You must report your workplace injury to your employer within 30 days of the accident, or within 90 days for occupational diseases. After reporting, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a formal workers’ compensation petition. These deadlines are strict — missing them can cost you your right to benefits entirely. Contact an attorney as soon as possible after your injury.

A denial is not the end of the road. You have the right to appeal a denied claim, and Avera & Smith specializes in exactly that. Many workers who were initially denied benefits have successfully recovered full compensation with the right legal representation.

Florida’s workers’ compensation system is a no-fault system, meaning you are generally entitled to benefits regardless of who caused the accident — including if you were partially at fault. There are limited exceptions, such as injuries resulting from intoxication or willful misconduct, but in most cases fault is not a barrier to receiving workers’ compensation benefits.

Yes. We handle all workers’ compensation cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and nothing out of pocket throughout the process. Our fee comes as a percentage of the compensation we recover for you, and only if we win. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.