When you sustain an on-the-job injury in Florida, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance can help you recover the costs of your medical bills.
However, not all injuries are eligible for this coverage. If your injury falls into one of these categories, the insurance company will likely deny you coverage.
Mental and nervous injuries
Many jobs involve mental and emotional strain, and there is no denying that these can take a toll on your mental health over time. However, Florida’s workers’ compensation laws exclude “mental or nervous injury due to stress, fright or excitement.” This means you can not claim workers’ compensation because your job has affected your mental health.
However, you may be able to receive benefits if your mental health has suffered as a result of a physical injury. In this case, you must provide documentation from a psychiatrist proving that your physical injury caused your mental or nervous condition.
Injuries arising from intoxication or drug use
Being drunk or high at work is extremely dangerous. If your employer argues that your injury occurred because you were drinking or under the influence of drugs while on the job, you might not receive compensation.
Intentional or self-inflicted injuries
Workers’ compensation will not cover self-inflicted injuries or injuries sustained while attempting to hurt another person. If your employer has evidence that you intended to injure yourself or someone else, the insurance company will most likely deny your claim.
When pursuing coverage for a workplace injury, it is important to know your rights and understand the circumstances that may lead to a denial of benefits.
