Godfrey Barrett of Jacksonville, Florida, was seriously injured after falling off a poorly secured scaffolding in May 2007. He was hospitalized, resulting in medical expenses and lost wages. Unfortunately, he then discovered that his employers, Superior Erectors Inc, does not own workers' compensation insurance. Under Florida law all businesses are required to offer benefits to injured workers, even if they have only one employee. Unfortunately, businesses that do not offer workers' compensation remain a consistent problem. This is especially true for construction companies. Barett's suit names Superior Erectors, Inc, their contractors Whitley Steel Co, and the Stellar Group - where he was working when he was injured - as defendants. The suit claims that these companies failed to provide a safe work environment and should be responsible for his medical expenses and lost earnings, as well as the pain and suffering he has endured. If you have been injured by a negligent employer or have been denied workers' compensation benefits, contact the Charleston workplace injury lawyers of the Steinberg Law Firm by calling 843-720-2800.

Arturo Vega, age 43, of Davie, Florida, was arrested early this week and charged with official misconduct and unlawful compensation. Vega is an employee of the Florida Department of Financial Services, which oversees workers' compensation in that states. According to the charges against him, Vega visited Pipe Designs Inc, a company based in Miami-Dade, in September of this year. During his visitation he found that the company did not own workers' compensation insurance, a violation of government regulations that can be punished with a fine of up to $30,000. Instead of following proper legal procedure, Vega lowered the penalty fine to less than $8,000 in exchange for $2,000 in money orders. Vega has admitted to keeping one of the money orders, which has been found in his home. The other was used as payment to end a stop-work order against the pipe company. If you or a loved one has been a victim of an unethical employer or government agent, we can help you receive the benefits you deserve. To speak with an experienced Charleston worker's compensation attorney, contact the Steinberg Law Office at 843-720-2800.