Can I get a work-related injury offsite or off the job?

As you may already know, Florida workers’ compensation law is meant to cover your medical expenses, as well as lost wages, after a work-related injury or illness. Most workplace mishaps occur while employees are at their worksites. However, there are some instances in which workers’ compensation may apply for an injury or illness that occurred away from the job or during off hours.

According to FindLaw, numerous situations may be covered by workers’ compensation off the clock or away from the job. Some examples may include the following:

• You were in a motor vehicle accident picking up office supplies during work hours.
• After work, you were in an accident when your boss asked you to mail a package on your way home.
• You got sick with a serious respiratory illness during a business flight.
• You tripped on the sidewalk while walking to a restaurant for a lunch meeting with clients.
• You sprained your ankle at a company-sponsored barbeque.

Additionally, the coming and going rule pertains to those who are injured on company property while off the clock. For example, if you were in a car accident after you clocked out and were on your way home, workers’ compensation would not cover you. If, however, you were hit by a car in your office’s parking lot while leaving or coming in to work, the going and coming rule should allow you to seek compensation.

Since workers’ compensation matters can be complicated, this information should not replace the advice of a lawyer.