If you are hurt at work, Florida law allows you to file a claim for compensation for your medical losses and sometimes your wages. This applies even if you are a part-time or seasonal employee. While there are limitations to what you can claim, workers’ comp for part-time Florida workers is available in most situations.
At Ara Work Injury Law, we help those hurt at work to get the compensation they deserve. If you were hurt on the job for any reason, get medical care, follow your doctor’s orders, and hire our Florida workers’ compensation lawyer to guide you in filing a claim.
Yes, Part-Time and Seasonal Workers Are Covered
Under Florida workers’ compensation law, most part-time and seasonal employees are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. There is no difference between part-time employees and full-time workers in most situations.
In certain situations, limitations may apply based on the industry or type of work. For example, not all companies must carry workers’ compensation. If you work for a small business that has fewer than 4 employees, they do not legally have to carry workers’ compensation. In the construction industry, a company with just 1 employee must carry workers’ compensation. Florida workers’ comp for part-time workers is available if the employer is required to maintain a policy.
“After years defending insurance companies, I switched sides to fight for injured workers. I know their playbook – now it works for you.”
- Ara Gechijian
Common Summer Jobs That Involve Risk
There are many times when the work done by an employee is dangerous, no matter if they are a full-time, seasonal, or part-time employee. Some of the most dangerous summer jobs include the following:
- Hospitality industry jobs: Those working in hotels, restaurants, and theme parks are exposed to the environment, hectic conditions, and long hours
- Retail: An increase in demand for jobs in the retail industry happens during the summer, especially for inexperienced seasonal workers in malls, grocery stores, and supper pop-up shops
- Landscaping work: Those in landscaping and groundskeeping work use highly dangerous equipment during their work day and face exposure to the intense sun
- Camp workers: Those who work as lifeguards, camp counselors, or amusement park workers also face risks due to the elements and tasks of their job
- Delivery and warehouse roles: Those who work in the logistics industry during the summer face intensifying demand during these months in hot conditions
A seasonal employee injury in Florida should always be taken seriously. If you are hurt for any reason, get medical care and the support you need immediately. Let our attorney help you navigate what comes next.
Types of Injuries Common Among Part-Time and Seasonal Workers
Any type of injury that occurs during the rest of the year can happen in the summer, too. Employees who work part-time tend to have less experience and may be more prone to suffering an injury. Take a look at some of the most common claims for a summer job injury that workers’ comp will likely cover.
- Slip and fall accidents
- Heat exhaustion or sunstroke, especially for those working outdoors
- Overexertion or repetitive motion injuries
- Cuts, burns, and lifting-related injuries
- Accidents involving tools or equipment
If you suffered these or other injuries that caused you to need medical care, you may have the right to pursue fair compensation for your losses. Do not overlook the more unique situations. For example, a theme park worker injury in Florida may be related to assault by a visitor to the location. A landscaping injury Florida workers’ comp claim could involve losses related to heat exhaustion and stroke.
What Benefits Are Available?
Victims of work injuries can seek a claim that includes losses related directly to the workplace injury. You must be able to document that there is a direct link between the injury and the work you are doing. Examples of the types of benefits you may have in a qualified case include:
- Medical care for your injuries from an authorized physician
- Wage replacement benefits, even if you are part-time, depending on the number of days you miss work due to your injury
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) or Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) in situations where you are unable to go back to work ever, or may not be able to go back to work with the same capacity due to your on-the-job injury
- Mileage reimbursement for doctor’s visits and other medical care you require from an authorized physician
- Rehabilitation or therapy to help you get back to work after you heal
In many cases, victims will need to document all losses they have. Start a journal where you record every bit of care and out-of-pocket expense you have as a result of your accident.
What If the Employer Says You Are Not Eligible?
In some situations, an employer may be unsure of what coverage is available to you as a part-time or seasonal employee. If an employer tells you that you do not have coverage because you are a part-time or seasonal worker, look for clarification. Note that some employers classify part-time or seasonal workers as “independent contractors.” This allows them to avoid paying benefits.
Some employers may deny or delay claims. They may hope you will not fight back. In still other cases, you may get pushback about your need on the job.
In all of these situations, having a Florida workers’ compensation attorney to protect your rights is the most important step you can take. Your lawyer will handle the entire process for you, minimizing such risks.
Why You Should Not Delay Filing a Claim
If you are hurt on the job, no matter what your position is, report the injury to your employer immediately. This includes minor injuries. If you fail to do so, or delay in doing so, you may be ineligible for compensation from medical or wage benefits.
Set Up a Free Consultation with an Experienced Florida Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Now
Do not wait to get answers to your questions. If you were hurt on the job as a part-time or seasonal worker, call Ara Work Injury Law for immediate help. Call us at 561.934.3272 or 561.9343.ARA for a free consultation.
