In Jerry Hazelwood v. Infinite Communications, Inc. and Continental Divide Insurance Company the Claimant injured his hands while working in Ohio. The Claimant seeks workers’ compensation benefits in Florida as a result of the injuries he sustained in Ohio. The Claimant contends that Florida has jurisdiction to decide this claim because his contract of employment was finalized in Florida where the Employer is located. The E/C argues that Florida does not have jurisdiction over the claim because the Claimant’s accident occurred in Ohio and the contract of employment was formed in West Virginia. In order for there to be a viable claim for benefits in Florida, the Claimant must establish that his “contract of employment” was formed in Florida or that his employment was principally localized in Florida. Based off the evidence presented, the JCC agrees with E/C that Claimant’s contract of employment was not formed in Florida and his employment was not principally localized in Florida. Petitions DENIED and DISMISSED.
