Will Workers’ Comp Cover an Accident Off-Site?
New Port Richey workers’ compensation attorney Joseph M. Rooth discusses common situations in which job-related injuries that occur off-site could still entitle you to benefits.
Workers’ compensation in Florida helps to protect employees when accidental injuries happen. To be eligible for benefits, your injuries have to be work-related. Generally, these occur directly on the job site, but there are situations in which off-site injuries could still entitle you to workers’ compensation.
When Off-Site Accidents Leave You Suffering Job-Related Injuries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than 300 workers are killed on the job each year while thousands of others suffer injuries that prevent them from working. In these situations, workers’ compensation benefits can provide a safety net.
Common causes of on-the-job injuries include slips and falls, getting struck by or against objects, getting jolted by electrical currents, cuts due to sharp objects, burn injuries, muscle strains and sprains due to overuse or repetitive tasks, and overexposure to heat or toxic substances. These generally happen on the job site. However, they can also occur off-site but in the course of performing work-related duties, including:
- Working from home;
- During business-related travel;
- While visiting other plants or facilities;
- While attending job-related lectures, meetings, workshops, training, or conferences at other locations.
Delivery or truck drivers, building inspectors, and outbound sales associates are all examples of occupations in which work-related accidents that are covered by workers’ compensation can occur off the job site. Injuries that happen while commuting to or from work, going out for personal rather than business reasons, or otherwise performing tasks not related to your job are not covered by workers’ comp.
Protecting Your Right to Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Off-Site Injuries
While you may be eligible for benefits through the Florida Workers’ Compensation program for injuries that occur off the job site, obtaining these benefits can still prove challenging. It can be difficult to prove how and when your injuries happened or that they are indeed work-related. To protect yourself and your rights in this situation, follow these steps:
- Report any type of accident or injury immediately to the police, security, or other authority so that an accident report can be filed;
- Notify your supervisor/employer as soon as possible;
- Make note of exactly when and where it happened and the circumstances surrounding the situation;
- Take photos of the accident site and your injuries if possible;
- Get the names and contact information for any witnesses at the scene;
- Seek medical care immediately and follow your doctor’s instructions regarding treatment, follow-up care, and activity restrictions.
Contact Our New Port Richey Workers’ Compensation Attorney Right Away
If you suffer job-related injuries in an off-site accident, reach out and call 727-849-3400 or contact New Port Richey workers’ compensation attorney Joseph M. Rooth online right away. As one of only a small percentage of board-certified workers’ compensation attorneys in Florida, we can protect your rights in this situation and help you get the benefits you need to cover lost wages, medical expenses, and other costs involved.