Whether you’re a truck driver who makes a living transporting goods across the country or you’re an office worker taking the company car to run errands, the last thing you might expect is to sustain a life-altering injury. When you’re driving a company vehicle, however, you may not know whether or not you’re eligible to receive workers’ compensation. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters and why you must connect with a Broward County personal injury attorney to explore your legal options.
What Should I Do if I’m Hurt in a Company Vehicle?
When you’re involved in an accident while working, taking the correct steps is critical. Generally, the most important thing you should do is contact emergency services to request the police and medical attention for the injuries you’ve sustained. Once you have called for help, you must exchange insurance information with the other party. If you do not have the information because it is a company vehicle, call your employer to obtain the information. This also allows you to report the accident to your supervisor.
If possible, you should take photos and videos of the accident scene, as this can help capture evidence that can be used to support you if you wish to file a claim. When speaking to the police, the other driver, and witnesses, do not say anything that could be construed as assuming responsibility for the accident.
Am I Eligible for Worker’s Compensation?
If you have been injured while driving a company vehicle, you may think that you are not eligible for worker’s compensation since you weren’t actually at your job site or office when the injuries occurred. However, it’s important to understand that if you are performing duties for your employer, you can be eligible to file for workers’ compensation. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Running errands for your employer
- Delivering goods or services
- Traveling between job sites
- Operating a commercial vehicle
However, if you are traveling to or from work, on a break, or using the company vehicle for any other reason while outside of your working hours, you will not be eligible for compensation through your employer and would only be able to pursue damages from the negligent party responsible for the collision.
It’s also important to understand that if you are injured due to the negligence of another party, you may be eligible for multiple sources of compensation. You may be able to hold the other, negligent party responsible, but you may also qualify for compensation through your employer. This is because you were hurt while working, even if you were not at your typical job site. This compensation can help you recover a portion of your income if you are unable to work due to the injuries you sustained.
When you’ve been injured while on the job, understanding your right to compensation is critical. At the Finizio Law Group, our dedicated team will do everything we can to help you recover the funds you deserve for these matters. Connect with us today to learn how we can assist you through these complex processes
