There are many ways for professionals to sustain work injuries. Some of those risk factors are profession-specific. Factory workers may need to watch out for heavy machinery and be conscientious about chemical exposure. Retail workers have to worry about overexertion and customer violence.
Many other job hazards are relevant to people across numerous different professions. For example, car crashes can affect workers in many different industries. There are some professionals who work jobs that involve driving every day. There are many others who drive at least occasionally for their employers. Some of those workers may end up in crashes on the job.
Collisions are responsible for approximately 39% of worker fatalities every year and a large number of major injuries as well. How can workers affected by collisions on the clock cover their losses?
Workers’ compensation is likely available
The good news for employees who get hurt in car crashes is that workers’ compensation is likely an option. As a no-fault form of protection, workers’ compensation can help cover collision expenses even if the employee was at fault for a crash.
That is very beneficial, as standard liability car insurance coverage does not protect people from losses when they are the party at fault. Workers’ compensation coverage can pay for necessary medical care after a worker gets hurt on the job. They may also be eligible for disability benefits to replace a portion of their lost wages until they recover or reach retirement age.
Personal injury rules may apply as well
If another party was at fault for the crash rather than the injured employee, then they may have more options for compensation after the wreck than just workers’ compensation benefits. They may be able to file a claim against the other driver’s insurance to help repair or replace their vehicle.
Given that workers’ compensation only covers a portion of lost wages, benefits could be helpful for those facing an extended absence from work, as they can supplement what workers’ compensation provides with additional compensation based on the total amount of lost wages. In scenarios involving catastrophic injuries that cause permanent functional limitations, employees might even be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the motorist at fault for the collision.
Looking into every possible option for covering the cost of work injuries can help people limit the hardship they must endure. A successful workers’ compensation claim after a car crash can be helpful. So can an evaluation of other personal injury options.