### Trucker Loses Key Workers’ Comp Appeal in Florida
Florida’s First District Court of Appeal upheld a denial of workers’ compensation benefits for trucker Brian Bacchus, ruling against his claim from a 2021 on-the-job injury. The decision affirms the lower judge’s finding that Bacchus failed to prove his employment status with DNL Logistics. Norguard Insurance, the carrier, walks away unscathed.
The case ignited after Bacchus, a truck driver, was injured on April 20, 2021—likely during a haul for DNL Logistics, a freight hauler. He sought workers’ comp coverage, arguing he was an employee entitled to benefits under Florida law. But DNL and Norguard fought back, claiming he was an independent contractor, not on their payroll.
The core legal fight: Was Bacchus truly DNL’s employee? Florida courts use a multi-factor test—control over work, payment method, tools provided—to decide. The judge of compensation claims said no, citing evidence like Bacchus setting his own routes and bearing his own truck costs. The appeals court agreed, finding “competent substantial evidence” backed the ruling—no basis to overturn.
For truckers and fleet owners, this is a stark reminder: Contractor status isn’t automatic. Misclassify workers, and you dodge comp claims; get it wrong, and face penalties. It reinforces Florida’s push for clear contracts spelling out independence, amid rising gig-economy scrutiny in logistics.
**Bottom Line:** Prove contractor status with facts, or risk paying up in comp claims.
https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/10847696/bacchus-v-dnl-logistics-inc-norguard-insurance-company/
Fellow truckers: Ever battled classification disputes—how do you structure your hauls?