What Are the Most Common Heat Injuries I Can Face While Working in FL?

One thing that many people say when they visit Florida is that they weren’t prepared for the heat and humidity! If you’re someone who’s lived in the state for a while, you may grow accustomed to high temperatures and thick humidity. However, just because you are used to it does not mean your body isn’t susceptible to injuries and illnesses caused by the heat while working. As such, if you’ve been injured or fallen ill, the following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of working with an experienced Florida workers’ compensation attorney to assist you through these difficult times.

What Are Common Heat Injuries or Illnesses?

When temperatures rise and you are engaged in a job that requires a considerable amount of physical activity, like manual labor, you could be at risk for heat-related injuries and illnesses.

Generally, heatstroke is one of the most serious heat-related injuries someone can endure. This occurs when your body is unable to cool itself with sweat, resulting in temperatures that can rise up to over 104 degrees farenheight. Not only can those suffering from this onset of illness become dizzy, confused, and disoriented, but it is also a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical care. This is because heatstroke can reduce blood flow to your organs, resulting in organ failure. In some instances, you can suffer rhabdomyolysis, which occurs when your muscles break down, thus sending toxins into your bloodstream. You may also fall into a coma.

However, you can also face other heat-related injuries and illnesses, like heat exhaustion. This is the precursor to heatstroke, and occurs when your body loses water too quickly. This can result in a loss of consciousness, which can result in subsequent injuries like broken bones or traumatic brain injury from the fall.

How Do I Seek Compensation For these Injuries?

If you sustained an injury or illness due to heat while working, it’s important to understand that you can seek compensation for the damages you’ve endured by filing a workers’ compensation claim.

Immediately after you have been injured, you should report it to your shift supervisor so they can document the matter. You should also seek immediate medical attention for heat stroke as well as any injuries you may have sustained while fainting. In Florida, you are required to see a provider approved by your employer’s insurance carrier. However, in an emergency situation, you are allowed to and should go to the nearest emergency room for immediate treatment.

Your employer is responsible for submitting a workers’ compensation claim to their insurer on your behalf. However, if they fail to do so or are otherwise uncooperative, you can submit one through the state’s Workers’ Compensation Board.

Regardless of your circumstances, if you have been injured or fallen ill while on the job, it’s in your best interest to work with an experienced attorney. At the Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore, our dedicated legal team will do everything in our power to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Do not hesitate to contact our firm today to learn how we can assist you.