Studies have found that young people who perform driving jobs are more likely than others to get injured in a job-related motor vehicle accident.
No workplace is completely safe as far as worker injuries and illnesses are concerned. Even seemingly safe workplaces such as offices or retail stores have a risk of injury. However, there are certain types of workers who are at a significantly higher rate of injury compared to other workers and industries. For example, industrial and construction workers have a higher injury rate compared to workers in other industries. Studies have found that young people who perform driving jobs are more likely than others to get injured in a job-related motor vehicle accident.
Young Drivers at Risk for Work-Related Vehicle Accidents
Youths have an important role in today’s workplace. Driving is among the most common duties assigned to younger members of the workforce aged 25 years or less. While most young drivers perform their jobs safely, they are still at a higher risk of being involved in a serious or even fatal work-related vehicle accident.
There are certain industries in which drivers in the age group of 16-25 experience the highest risk of work related injuries and death. These industries include waste management, agriculture, mining, transportation, warehousing, and public administration.
Risk Factor Unique to Younger Employees
There are several factors that make young drivers more susceptible to vehicle accidents on the job. In many cases, the accident is truly accidental. However, perceived or real work pressures contribute to accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), factors that may contribute to workplace vehicle accidents include:
- overconfidence in driving skills
- lack of driving experience
- poor judgment or impulse control
- distractions while driving
- undeveloped decision-making skills
- inconsistent use of seat belt
- in a rush to meet deadlines
Workers’ Compensation for Vehicle Accidents
A worker who gets injured at the workplace is entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. An injured employee may receive medical benefits and a part of lost wages. However, this may not be the only source of compensation possible. If the vehicle accident was a result of a negligent driver, the worker may have a third-party claim as well. Speak to a St. Louis work comp lawyer about your case. Call The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (314) 361-4300 for a free consultation.