There are many ways for professionals to get hurt on the job. Some people slip and fall. Others have a violent encounter with a coworker or a customer. People who work with heavy machinery may be at risk if they make accidental contact with equipment.
Others could end up injured because of a car crash. A variety of different types of professionals may have to drive while working. Obviously, transportation and delivery specialists spend some time in traffic. Home health aides, electricians and a variety of other professionals may also regularly drive to perform their job responsibilities.
Car crashes are among the top causes of worker injuries and fatalities. Can people injured in traffic incidents qualify for workers’ compensation?
Timing determines eligibility
Not every car crash that relates to an individual’s employment automatically qualifies an injured professional for workers’ compensation benefits. Collisions during a commute to or from a job generally do not make a worker eligible. If they are not yet on the clock, then workers’ compensation coverage does not apply.
However, those driving as part of their job functions during a shift could be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits after a crash. Medical coverage can pay for the full cost of their care. Disability benefits can help replace their wages if they require time off as they recover. The benefits available can protect them even if they were at fault for the crash.
Reporting a work-related car crash to management and letting health care professionals know that the worker was on the clock can help reinforce the injured employee’s eligibility for benefits. Those pursuing workers’ compensation claims in unusual circumstances may need help handling paperwork and learning more about their rights.