A workplace injury can disrupt your life, your family, and your financial security in an instant. Whether you were injured at a construction site in Doral, a warehouse near PortMiami, or an office in Brickell, navigating the aftermath of a work accident is incredibly stressful. At Altman Law Firm, we understand the physical and emotional toll of these incidents. Led by Jeffrey S. Altman, our firm helps injured workers throughout Miami-Dade County explore their legal options, especially when employer or third-party negligence played a role in their injuries.
In Florida, the workers' compensation system is designed to provide medical benefits and partial wage replacement regardless of fault. However, these benefits are often limited and do not cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering. If your injury was caused by a negligent third party—such as a subcontractor on a construction site, a manufacturer of defective equipment, or a negligent driver while you were operating a company vehicle on the Palmetto Expressway—you may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit. This third-party claim can help you recover comprehensive damages that workers' comp does not cover.
Miami-Dade County is a hub of economic activity, from bustling cargo terminals to high-rise construction projects in downtown Miami. Common work-related injury scenarios we see include falls from scaffolding or ladders at construction sites, forklift accidents in industrial warehouses, and motor vehicle collisions during work hours. Additionally, workers may suffer severe injuries due to poorly maintained premises or defective machinery. Identifying all responsible parties is critical to building a strong case for compensation.
Pursuing a work-related injury claim involves navigating complex Florida laws. Under Florida's comparative negligence statute, your recovery could be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. Furthermore, Florida has strict statutes of limitations for filing personal injury claims. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar you from seeking recovery. Jeffrey S. Altman works diligently to investigate your accident, preserve crucial evidence, and build a compelling case within the legal timeframes.
Yes, under certain circumstances. While workers' compensation generally prevents you from suing your employer directly, you can file a separate personal injury lawsuit if a third party's negligence caused your injuries. Common examples include negligent subcontractors, property owners, or equipment manufacturers.
In Florida, the statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits, including third-party work injury claims, is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, exceptions may apply depending on the details of your case, which is why it is critical to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system. If you are found to be partially responsible for your workplace accident, your financial recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are determined to be more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages from other negligent parties.
Unlike workers' compensation, a third-party personal injury claim allows you to seek compensation for non-economic damages. This includes full lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, medical expenses not covered by workers' comp, and pain and suffering.
Not necessarily. Many work injury claims are resolved through negotiation and settlement with insurance companies before reaching a courtroom. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, Jeffrey S. Altman is prepared to advocate for your rights in the Miami-Dade County court system.
Contact Altman Law Firm today to schedule a free, confidential consultation regarding your Miami-Dade County work injury claim. Call (305) 373-3730.