Sustaining an injury at work is already a complex situation, but what happens if it occurs while you’re on a break? You might be uncertain whether workers’ compensation still applies. Under Florida law, the circumstances of your break play a significant role in determining coverage.
What counts as a work-related break?
Not all breaks are equal under the law. If you remain on your employer’s premises—such as the break room, cafeteria, or designated rest area—your injury may still fall under workers’ comp coverage. The determining factor is whether your activity during the break serves a function connected to your employment or takes place in a location associated with your job. Even walking to the restroom could be considered within the scope of employment, depending on where it happens.
What happens if you leave the workplace?
Leaving the job site during your break introduces more complexity. For instance, if you step off-site for lunch and suffer an injury, it’s unlikely you’ll qualify for compensation. Florida statutes generally deny claims for injuries sustained off the clock and off the employer’s property. However, exceptions do exist. If your employer directed you to complete an errand or pick something up while on break, the injury could still be considered work-related.
How do you prove your injury qualifies?
Context is essential. You must demonstrate a clear connection between your actions during the break and your job responsibilities. Factors such as timing, location, and the nature of your activity are all important. Document the incident thoroughly, obtain witness statements, and ensure your report is consistent with the facts.
Being injured during a break doesn’t automatically disqualify you from receiving benefits. If your employer controls the environment where the injury occurred or if your activity is job-related, workers’ comp may still apply. A detailed understanding of where you were and what you were doing at the time of the incident will significantly influence your eligibility.