It’s summertime in Florida and that means it’s time for enjoying the outdoors, going to the beach, relaxing and taking vacations. However summer is also notorious for workplace accidents. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more work accidents happen during the summer months (June, July and August) compared to any other time of the year. Here are some of the causes of summertime work injuries.
1) Rain – It’s the rainy season in Florida from May to October. Rain can accumulate in the entryways of office buildings and at construction sites causing slip and falls. Rain can also cause slippery conditions on the roadways as well as poor driver visibility. These conditions increase the propensity for auto accidents, especially for those for workers whose job requires them to operate a motor vehicle, such as delivery drivers and transportation drivers.
2) Heat –Especially for those who work outdoors during the sweltering summer months in Florida, staying hydrated is important for more reasons that you can imagine. Extended time working under the hot summer sun can lead to heatstroke. Additionally, heat can cause slower reaction time and impaired judgment which can lead to dangerous mistakes at work. This is especially true for those who work with heavy equipment such construction workers, and those who work with cutting tools such as landscapers.
3) Construction Season – Summer is the height of construction season in Florida. With the increase in workers at construction sites comes the increase in workplace accidents. The most common construction accidents are falls, equipment related injuries, injuries from falling objects and injuries from physical overexertion such as extended heavy lifting.
4) Youth Summer Jobs - While school is out, many teenagers and young college students take advantage of their free time by getting a summer job. Since their employment is for the short term, many employers to not invest a great deal of time or effort to train these young workers. Young workers, some of which are entering the work force for the first time, lack the skills and experience of long term workers. This lack of experience and proper training can lead to workplace accidents.
We at Touby, Chait and Sicking want you to stay safe and avoid work accidents. However, if you work in Florida and have had a work accident, our experienced lawyers at Touby, Chait and Sicking can help you obtain the benefits to which you may be entitled. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.