Car Accidents and Workers’ Comp

Usually, when people hear the words “workers’ compensation,” they typically think of injuries on the job site, such as falling off a ladder, machinery malfunctions or not maintaining proper safety regulations. However, car accidents on the job can also result in a workers’ compensation claim. Here is some important information regarding car accidents and workers’ comp in Massachusetts.

Car Accidents and Workers’ Comp | Common Causes

Car accidents on the job cause severe injuries and can have life-altering consequences for victims. In fact, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, car accidents result in one-fifth of all severe work-related injuries.

These accidents can be caused for many reasons, but the majority of accidents fall into two categories: Being struck by a vehicle or colliding with another vehicle. Workers in some industries are at a higher risk for being involved in a work-related auto accident. Risk factors include:

• Working Near Roadways – Nearly 100 work-related collisions occur each day in the U.S. In fact, being struck by a vehicle while at work is one of the most common causes of workers’ compensation auto accident claims in Massachusetts.
• Construction Zones – Construction areas tend to be heavily trafficked by vehicles and construction equipment. Construction site traffic is a leading cause of workers’ compensation auto accidents.
• Commercial Trucking – Long-distance truck driving is one of the most dangerous industries, and work-related injuries cause thousands of severe injuries every year.
• Delivery Drivers – Delivery drivers are under constant pressure to meet quotas, no matter the road conditions. If you were injured while on a delivery route, you may be entitled to compensation.
• Chauffeurs & Taxi Drivers – Hired drivers spend countless hours on the road each week. This industry faces some of the highest rates of work-related motor vehicle accidents.

Download Our FREE Workers’ Compensation Guide

Car Accidents and Workers’ Comp | Who Can File a Claim?

Workers’ compensation is available for injuries that occur while at work. In most cases, that does not include accidents that happen while commuting to the workplace. In Massachusetts, the “coming and going” rule does not protect workers on their commutes. But there are some exceptions to the rule. A few examples include:

• Salespeople/Traveling Nurses – If your job requires you to spend several hours driving each day, or you do not have a traditional workplace and work from your vehicle, you may be exempt from the coming and going rule.
• On-Call Workers – If you are called into work, you may be eligible for benefits if an injury occurs after you’ve been called in.
• Work-Related Errands – If you were sent out to pick up supplies, or to run a quick errand, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation.

Ultimately, coming and going accident cases are highly complex. A qualified Massachusetts workers’ compensation lawyer is necessary for protecting your rights and fighting for compensation you deserve.

If you have been injured from a car accident while on the job, please contact our experienced Lowell workers’ compensation attorneys today to schedule a free consultation.