Employer's Denial of Comp Claim Doesn't Bar Exclusive Remedy Defense in Civil Suit

A Florida appellate court ruled that an employer’s denial of liability for a worker's claim did not bar the employer from asserting an exclusive remedy defense to a civil suit. Case: McNair v. Dorsey, No. 1D18-698, 01/22/2020, published. Facts: Leroy McNair and Michael Dorsey worked for James Armstrong’s tree service company. McNair allegedly suffered injuries while working with Dorsey to carry a large branch to a wood chipper. Procedural history: McNair filed a workers’ compensation claim, but Armstrong’s insurance carrier denied it. The notice of...