Many workers, from truckers and van drivers to movers, plumbers, electricians, and many more drive vehicles as part of their job.
Many injured workers wonder if they can file for workers’ compensation if they were injured while driving for work. Here’s what you should know.
Injuries You Get As Part Of Work Duties Qualify You For Workers’ Compensation
The short answer is “yes.” If you are injured while driving for work, you can typically file for workers’ compensation in St. Louis.
For example, if you work for a landscaping company and you are driving to a job site to mow a lawn, and you’re T-boned in an intersection by a driver who runs a red light, you can file for worker’s compensation.
The important thing to understand here is that you must be driving as part of your work duties to qualify to file workers’ compensation – and that even if you are at fault for the accident, you can usually get workers’ comp, as long as you were not driving recklessly or under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
You May Be Able To File A Personal Injury Lawsuit Against The Responsible Party
A common misconception that St. Louis work injury lawyers hear is that people involved in accidents don’t think they can file a personal injury lawsuit if they also file for workers’ compensation.
This is not true. If you are involved in a serious accident while performing your job duties, you may be able to file for workers’ compensation and also file a lawsuit against the responsible party. In some cases, this is the best way to get the money you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, and other expenses after a car accident. An experienced attorney can help you understand what you are legally entitled to.
Commuting To Work Is Generally Not Covered By Workers’ Compensation
What about if you’re working an office job, you’re driving to your workplace, and you’re involved in a serious car accident? Can you file for workers’ compensation?
The answer is generally “no.” Commuting to work is not typically considered to be part of your “job duties” – so you will not be covered by workers’ compensation in this case. However, you can still get compensation from the insurance company of the responsible party, and file a personal injury lawsuit.
Contact a St. Louis Workers’ Compensation Lawyer For Help With Your Case
If you have been in a serious accident while driving for your job, a work injury lawyer in St. Louis can help with the complexities of filing for workers’ compensation, and even filing a personal injury lawsuit, in some cases. Contact an experienced lawyer near you right away for a FREE case review, and make sure you get the best possible outcome for your work injury case.