Workers’ Compensation Claims for Florida Delivery Drivers During the Holidays
During the holiday season, delivery drivers are at a significantly higher risk of work-related injuries. If you are a delivery driver in Florida and are injured while on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for delivery drivers. With the surge in online shopping and the need for timely deliveries, drivers often face longer hours, increased workloads, and added risks on the job. In fact, a report shows that 92% of delivery drivers take on additional shifts during the busy holiday season, leading to more and longer routes.
If you’re a driver working for Amazon, FedEx, UPS, USPS, or any other delivery service, it’s crucial to understand your rights under Florida’s workers’ compensation laws in the event you’re injured on the job. In this article, our workers’ compensation attorneys provide important information about workers’ compensation claims for delivery drivers in Florida.
Were you injured while on the job in Florida? You may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. At Avera & Smith, Attorney Lance Avera is board certified in workers’ compensation law, a distinction that less than 1% of Florida workers’ compensation attorneys can claim. Lance and our team of workers’ compensation attorneys will protect you from employer retaliation, demand justice from insurance companies who refuse to pay, and fight to resolve disputed or denied claims. Know your rights. Call 800-654-4659 now for a free consultation.
Understanding Florida’s workers’ compensation laws
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. In Florida, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover their employees, including delivery drivers. This coverage typically includes:
- Medical expenses: Payment for necessary medical treatment related to the injury.
- Lost wages: Compensation for a portion of your income if you’re unable to work due to your injury.
- Disability benefits: Support for temporary or permanent disabilities resulting from a work-related incident.
- Vocational rehabilitation: Assistance in retraining or finding new employment if you’re unable to return to your previous job.
Common risks for delivery drivers during the busy holiday season
The nature of delivery work can expose drivers to various hazards, particularly during the holiday rush. Some of the more common risks for delivery drivers are:
- Vehicle accidents: Increased traffic and tight schedules can lead to road accidents.
- Slip-and-fall injuries: Delivering packages in bad weather or navigating unfamiliar properties increases the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls.
- Overexertion: Lifting heavy packages repeatedly can lead to musculoskeletal injuries.
- Dog bites: Encounters with aggressive pets while delivering to residences.
It’s important to know that these are just common injury types for delivery drivers. If you experience any kind of injury or illness while working, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The best way to learn more about your eligibility is to contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in Florida.
What to do if you are injured while on the job
If you are injured while working or making deliveries, it is critical to act quicky and follow these steps.
- Report the incident: Notify your employer or manager right away about your injury. Under Florida law, you must notify your company of a workplace injury within 30 days of the incident.
- Seek medical attention: To be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, you will need to visit a healthcare provider that is authorized by your employer and their insurance.
- Complete a workplace injury report: Once you report your injury to your employer, your employer must notify the company’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier within seven days. You will need to complete a workplace injury report that your employer will then send to the insurance company.
- Gather evidence and documentation: It’s important to keep detailed records of the incident, including photographs, videos, and witness information. You will also need to keep copies of all medical records to support your claim.
- File a workers’ compensation claim: Work with your employer to submit a workers’ compensation claim to the insurance company. Be sure to complete all information accurately and submit the claim as soon as you can.
- Contact an attorney: If you feel like your employer is diminishing or denying your injuries and preventing you from submitting a complete and accurate claim, you should contact a workers’ compensation attorney to protect your rights. A workers’ compensation attorney can also help you if your claim is disputed or denied.
Are independent contractors covered by workers’ compensation?
Many delivery drivers work as independent contractors rather than employees. Florida’s workers’ compensation laws typically cover employees, not contractors. However, the classification of your employment status can sometimes be disputed. If you’re unsure about your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney to understand your options.
Tips to help prevent injuries during the holiday season
With an increase in online orders and traffic, the holiday season may bring additional challenges for delivery drivers. Understanding your rights and taking proactive steps can make a big difference if you’re injured on the job. Stay safe by following these tips:
- Take breaks to avoid fatigue.
- Don’t speed and don’t drive distracted.
- Use proper lifting techniques to prevent strain.
- Wear appropriate footwear to reduce slip-and-fall risks.
- Be cautious around pets and unfamiliar environments.
Were you injured while working this holiday season?
Call 800-654-4659 for a free case review
If you’re injured while on the job this holiday season, workers’ compensation benefits are there to protect you. At Avera & Smith, we are dedicated to helping injured workers navigate the complexities of Florida’s workers’ compensation system. Free of charge, we will set up an in-person or over-the-phone consultation to help you understand your rights and legal options. We specialize in appealing denied, disputed or delayed workers’ compensation claims. You don’t have to navigate the system alone. We are here to help you get the benefits you deserve.
Request a free case review through our online form or call 800-654-4659 to speak with one of our attorneys.