Cancer is caused by many factors – including our lifestyles, genetics, and workplaces. Many people associate workplace injuries with accidents, but a more insidious hazard involves exposure to dangerous substances that can lead to occupational illnesses, including cancer.
In such cases, having a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney by your side is not just important – it’s crucial. The team at Flaxman Law Group has recovered over $100 million for injured and sick workers as well as injured Florida residents. We have seen firsthand the challenges workers with cancer face when trying to get their rightful workers’ compensation benefits and we know how to build a strong case for these individuals. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer and suspect your work conditions are a factor in the illness, contact Flaxman Law Group for a free, no obligation, confidential consultation to discuss your potential case
Common Workplace Cancers in Florida
Cancer in the workplace can vary widely by industry and across Florida this diagnosis can include:
- Lung Cancer: Industries involving asbestos, silica, and other toxic substances have been linked to lung cancer. Workers in construction, mining, and manufacturing may face higher risks due to inhaling these particles.
- Skin Cancer: Outdoor workers, such as construction workers, landscapers, and farmers, are at risk due to prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays.
- Bladder Cancer: Chemical exposure to substances like benzidine, found in dyes and chemicals, can increase the likelihood of developing bladder cancer. Manufacturing and other industries can expose workers to these substances.
- Mesothelioma: Primarily caused by asbestos exposure, this cancer affects the lining of the organs, including the lungs, heart, or abdomen. Workers in construction, shipyards, and asbestos mines are particularly susceptible to this often-fatal, very aggressive cancer.
- Leukemia: Exposure to benzene, found in various industries like rubber manufacturing and oil refining, has been linked to some types of leukemia.
Am I at Risk of Work-Related Cancer?
The following risk factors can increase your risk of cancer caused by work conditions.
- Toxic Chemicals: Industries that handle hazardous substances, like manufacturing, mining, and chemical processing, can expose workers to carcinogens. However, even seemingly safe work environments can have hidden asbestos and other carcinogens.
- Poor Ventilation: Inadequate airflow can lead to the accumulation of harmful fumes, dust, and particles, increasing cancer risks.
- Radiation Exposure: Industries using X-rays, nuclear materials, and radiation-emitting equipment pose risks to workers if proper safety measures are not in place.
- Sun Exposure: Outdoor workers who spend significant time in the sun without protection are susceptible to skin cancer.
Working With a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
When it comes to workplace cancers, the legal landscape can be complex. It can be very difficult to prove that a work exposure led to cancer, especially since we are still researching exactly what causes cancer. Work-related cancers should be covered by workers’ compensation if the illness was caused by work, but in many cases employees are denied their rightful benefits because employers allege the cancer was not caused by exposure at work. Cancer treatment is often very expensive, so employers and their insurers also have a financial incentive to deny claims.
For all these reasons, working with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer is important. Whether you’re in Miami, Hollywood, or any Florida community, your attorney may be able to:
- Guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected.
- Gather critical evidence to establish the link between your cancer and your workplace conditions.
- Negotiate with insurers to seek the compensation you deserve.
- Ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed within the required time frame.
- Handle negotiations, settlements, and even litigation if necessary.
An attorney is your shield against the complexities of the legal process, allowing you to focus on your health. Seeking legal help isn’t just about pursuing compensation – it’s about holding employers accountable and ensuring a safer work environment for all.
If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer and believe your workplace environment may have contributed to the disease, call Flaxman Law Group at 866-352-9626 or contact us online to schedule your free accident consultation. Flaxman Law Group is a family law firm with offices in Miami, Homestead, and Hollywood. We’re proud to serve the entire South Florida area and have recovered over $100 million for clients. Let’s talk about whether you may have a claim that can at least ease the financial burden of a serious illness. Your first consultation is free and comes with no obligation, so there’s no risk in speaking to one of our workers’ compensation attorneys in Miami, Homestead, or Hollywood.