Work-Related Knee Injuries 

If you’ve experienced a work-related knee injury in Florida, you may be feeling uncertain about how to move forward with your workers’ compensation claim. A knee injury can disrupt your ability to work, impact your financial stability, and affect your overall well-being. Fortunately, Florida’s workers’ compensation system is designed to provide most workers with the necessary benefits during this difficult time.  

A man sitting on the couch in pain holding his injured knee

Who is Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?  

With a few exceptions, most Florida businesses with at least four employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage. Even if you were partially or fully responsible for the accident, you can likely recover benefits.  

At Berlin Law Firm, we are dedicated exclusively to workers’ compensation cases. Our extensive background, including managing the legal department for a major insurance carrier, equips us with deep insight into how insurers handle work injury claims. We use this knowledge to build strong cases and advocate aggressively for injured workers. 

Common Knee Injuries That Happen at Work 

The knee is the body’s largest joint, playing a crucial role in nearly every leg movement. Unfortunately, it is also highly susceptible to injury, especially in physically demanding jobs. 

Frequent work-related knee injuries include: 

  • Bursitis: Prolonged kneeling or heavy lifting can cause fluid accumulation in the bursae, the small sacs that cushion the knee joint. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and limited mobility. 
  • Ligament Tears: The knee’s four main ligaments—ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL—are vulnerable to sprains or tears from sudden movements or trauma. Severe cases may require surgical intervention and extensive recovery. 
  • Meniscus Tears: This C-shaped cartilage can tear from twisting movements or heavy lifting. A torn meniscus can result in pain, swelling, and stiffness, often accompanied by a popping sound at the moment of injury. 
  • Patellar Dislocation: When the kneecap (patella) is forced out of its groove, typically due to a direct impact or awkward movement, it can result in intense pain and joint immobility. 
  • Patellar Fracture: A broken kneecap may necessitate surgery and could lead to chronic pain or reduced joint function. 

Causes of Knee Injuries at Work 

There are various causes of work accidents that can lead to knee injuries, including:  

  • Accidents and Collisions: Incidents involving machinery, falls, or motor vehicle accidents can lead to severe knee damage. 
  • Slips and Falls: Tripping over workplace hazards or falling from heights can result in significant knee trauma. 
  • Lifting Heavy Objects: Improper lifting techniques place undue stress on the knee joint, potentially causing bursitis or ligament strain. 
  • Repetitive Stress: Continuous kneeling or repetitive leg movements can lead to overuse injuries. Workers in fields such as construction, healthcare, and warehousing are especially at risk. 
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Reporting a Knee Injury at Work 

Promptly reporting your knee injury is crucial for ensuring your workers’ compensation claim is processed as smoothly as possible. 

Steps for reporting a knee injury include: 

  1. Notify your employer as soon as possible: In Florida, you are required to report your injury within 30 days. Delaying notification may jeopardize your claim. 
  1. Provide detailed information: Include the date, time, and circumstances of the injury. Be as specific as possible, as insurance companies often try to dispute claims by arguing that injuries were not work-related or were pre-existing. 
  1. Employer’s responsibility: Once informed, your employer has seven days to report the incident to their workers’ compensation insurance provider. It is against Florida law for you to be fired for filing a workers compensation claim and an employer cannot tell you to use your personal health insurance for your medical care.  

Average Workers’ Compensation for Knee Injury Settlements 

While each case is unique, the National Safety Council reports that the average workers’ compensation settlement for a knee injury is approximately $35,332. This amount typically includes medical expenses averaging $18,009 and indemnity payments of around $17,323. Severe cases involving surgery or long-term rehabilitation can lead to higher settlements. 

Factors Influencing Compensation for Knee Injuries 

Several elements can impact the compensation you receive for a knee injury at work: 

  • Type and Severity of Injury: A mild sprain may resolve with minimal treatment, while more severe injuries may require surgery and result in long-term impairment. 
  • Medical Expenses: The cost of ongoing care, such as physical therapy or potential future surgeries, can significantly influence the settlement amount. 
  • Lost Wages: Compensation often covers wages lost during recovery. 
  • Ability to Return to Work: If the injury impedes your ability to resume your previous role or find other employment, this will affect the total settlement. 

Why You Need an Attorney Who Knows Knee Injury Claims 

A doctor speaking to a patient and gesturing to a model of a knee joint

Navigating a knee injury claim can be complex, especially when facing insurance companies determined to limit payouts. This is where having an experienced Florida workers’ compensation attorney becomes essential. Knee injuries can involve intricate medical details, such as evaluating long-term mobility issues or the need for ongoing treatment.  

At Berlin Law Firm, we understand the challenges you face, and we know how to present compelling evidence to maximize your compensation. Our expertise allows us to anticipate challenges and present your case in the strongest possible manner, ensuring your rights are protected. 

How Berlin Law Can Help 

At Berlin Law Firm, we focus solely on workers’ compensation cases. Our extensive experience enables us to build strong, persuasive claims and fight for every benefit you deserve. Whether you need help starting your claim or appealing a denial, our team is committed to guiding you through every step with personalized attention and unwavering advocacy. 

Don’t let a work-related knee injury compromise your future. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation and take the first step toward securing the benefits and support you need to heal and move forward. 

Berlin Law Firm

Discuss Your Work Injury Claim for Free

Learn the types of compensation you may be eligible for and have your questions answered. Call today.

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