Common Workplace Injuries in Florida

Being injured at work is something most people never imagine could happen, yet it affects people each year in every type of workplace, from quiet offices to bustling construction zones. Common workplace injuries in Florida tend to follow certain patterns and causes. 

Across Florida, these injuries often involve slips, trips, and falls, overexertion, repetitive strain, or harm from being struck by moving objects or vehicles. They may lead to sprains, strains, broken bones, and, in severe cases, traumatic brain injuries. At Hersh Kirtman, our Boca Raton Workplace Accidents Lawyer understands how deeply these incidents can impact your health, livelihood, and future, and we are committed to guiding injured workers through the process.

Slip and Fall Accidents on the Job

Slips, trips, and falls can happen in any workplace, whether it’s a wet floor in a retail store or uneven ground at a construction site. According to recent data from the National Safety Council, 865 workers died in falls, and 144 of those deaths were from falls on the same level. You don’t have to fall from a height to suffer severe or even fatal injuries. These incidents often lead to fractures, back injuries, or traumatic brain injuries, depending on the nature of the fall.

Inadequate lighting, obstructed walkways, slippery surfaces, and a lack of proper safety signage are common causes of workplace slip-and-fall accidents. Employers have a legal duty to maintain safe work environments, and failing to do so can make them and their insurers liable for workers’ compensation benefits.

Overexertion and Repetitive Motion Injuries

Overexertion injuries occur when the body is pushed beyond its limits, often during lifting, pushing, or carrying heavy loads. Repetitive motion injuries, on the other hand, result from doing the same task repeatedly over time. These injuries can affect muscles, tendons, and nerves, leading to conditions such as tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Workers in physical labor roles, such as warehouse employees, landscapers, or construction laborers, are especially vulnerable. But office workers aren’t immune; prolonged typing or poor ergonomic setups can cause long-term discomfort and impairment. Early medical intervention and workplace adjustments can reduce the risk of permanent damage.

Struck-by and Caught-in Accidents in Florida Workplaces

Struck-by accidents occur when a moving object, vehicle, or piece of equipment hits a worker. Caught-in accidents happen when a worker becomes trapped in machinery or between heavy objects. Both types can cause devastating injuries, from severe limb damage to internal trauma.

Florida’s active construction, manufacturing, and warehouse industries see higher rates of these incidents, particularly when machinery lacks proper guarding or safety protocols are ignored. Personal protective equipment (PPE) and strict adherence to safety procedures are critical to prevention.

Industries Where These Injuries Are Most Common

Certain sectors carry greater risk. Construction, manufacturing, warehousing, and transportation consistently rank among the highest for workplace injury rates. These industries combine heavy machinery, fast-paced environments, and elevated physical demands, factors that increase the likelihood of common workplace injuries in Florida. Even so, service-based roles like healthcare and hospitality also see high injury rates, especially from slips, lifting patients, or repetitive motions.

Michael Hersh

Founding Partner

A passionate advocate for injury victims, Michael transitioned from corporate law to fighting for individuals after a pivotal case defending an elderly couple. With over $100M in verdicts and settlements, he specializes in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, using his Trial Lawyers College training to powerfully tell clients’ stories.

Years of experience – Over 15 years
Elite Trial Advocate – Graduate, Trial Lawyers College
$35M Record Verdict – Catastrophic auto accident case

Get in touch: LinkedIn | Justia

What to Do After a Workplace Injury in Boca Raton

Florida law requires specific steps after a workplace accident to ensure eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits. According to the Florida Workers’ Compensation System Guide:

• Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, and no later than 30 days after the incident or after learning it is work-related.
• Ask your employer which doctor you are authorized to see, and ensure treatment comes from a physician approved by the employer or its insurance carrier.
• If directed to contact the insurer directly, their contact details should be listed on the workplace Broken Arm poster.
• In an emergency, seek immediate care at the nearest hospital and inform your employer as soon as possible.
• Employers must report your injury to their insurance carrier within seven days of your notice.

Following these steps can help you maintain eligibility for potential medical coverage and lost wage benefits, depending on your specific circumstances.

Injured at Work? Contact a Boca Raton Workplace Injury Lawyer Today

Workplace accidents can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial challenges. At Hersh Kirtman, we guide workers in Boca Raton to navigate the claims process, deal with insurance companies, and protect their rights under Florida law. Whether your case involves a slip and fall, overexertion injury, or a struck-by incident, our team will guide you through each step.

Don’t wait to get help. Contact us today at 561.208.3700 to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist with claims involving common workplace injuries in Florida.