Workers’ compensation benefits are available to employees who contract workplace illnesses, however the Florida Workers’ Compensation Act generally does not mandate coverage for people who contract communicable illnesses. Shortly after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic however, some exceptions were made to Florida’s workers’ compensation law to allow essential workers who contracted it at their jobs to recover medical and lost wage benefits.
In 2020, Governor Desantis signed an executive order allowing first responders, correction officers, healthcare workers, and other essential employees who contracted it, to apply for such benefits. It was needed since many on these “front line” people have faced increased risks of contracting COVID-19. Under the executive order, an exception to the general rule allowed a presumption that they could be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Since that order has recently expired, it leaves thousands at risk. Without it in place, people who contract COVID-19 will need to prove that they got it from their job. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to prove since it’s highly contagious and can be contracted anywhere. It is therefore best to talk with an experienced Coral Springs Workers’ Compensation Lawyer like Evan M. Ostfeld, Esq. to see if there is a basis for a valid workers’ compensation claim.
Understanding Florida’s Workers’ Compensation Laws
Most companies in Florida are required to carry workers’ compensation coverage to protect their employees when they are injured or sickened at their jobs. Under §440.151, Fla. Stat. (2021), an occupational disease is defined as one that is contracted because of the conditions of a particular type of business/employer. Any other illness is considered to be ordinary and will not qualify for worker’s compensation benefits unless one can show that he/she got sick due to their job.
Get Help from The Law Offices of Evan M. Ostfeld, P.A.
If you are an employee (not an independent contractor) and suffered and injury or illness on the job, contact The Law Offices of Evan M. Ostfeld, P.A. right away to know about your rights. Evan has over 28 years of experience and provides a no-obligation case analysis. There are no attorney’s fees or costs unless there is a settlement or court award. Contact us today at (866) I SUE YOU, (954) 227-7529, (954) 998-0075 text or evan@attorney4life.com. We are here to help!
