Work-related car accidents can cause significant disruptions in both your personal and professional life. If you’ve been involved in an accident while performing job-related duties, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits.
However, not all accidents that occur while driving for work automatically qualify for coverage. Understanding the key factors that determine eligibility can help you protect your rights and ensure you receive the benefits you're entitled to.
What Is Considered a Work-Related Car Accident?
A work-related car accident occurs when you’re injured while performing tasks within the scope of your employment. Workers' compensation typically covers injuries that happen during working hours or while you’re carrying out duties on behalf of your employer. However, the specifics of whether an accident qualifies can depend on a variety of factors.
Here are a few examples of situations that may be considered work-related:
- Driving to a work-related meeting or between job sites.
- Running an errand for your employer.
- Transporting goods or equipment for your company.
- Making deliveries as part of your job.
- Driving a company vehicle for business purposes.
In these situations, you’re generally considered to be performing job duties, and an injury sustained during an accident would likely be covered by workers' compensation.
When Does a Car Accident Not Qualify?
While workers' compensation covers many types of work-related car accidents, there are scenarios in which an injury might not be eligible. For example, workers' compensation typically does not cover injuries that occur during your daily commute to and from work. This is often referred to as the "going and coming rule," which means that accidents occurring while you’re commuting to your regular place of work are generally not covered.
However, there are exceptions to this rule, including:
- Running a work-related errand during your commute.
- Traveling for work purposes away from your usual job location, such as visiting a client or attending a work-related event.
- Driving a company vehicle where driving is a core part of your job duties.
If any of these exceptions apply, your accident could still be considered work-related and may qualify for workers' compensation.
Proving That Your Car Accident Is Work-Related
To successfully file a workers' compensation claim after a car accident, you need to demonstrate that the accident occurred while performing a work-related task. This requires gathering evidence that shows you were on the clock or fulfilling work duties at the time of the accident.
Some useful evidence includes:
- Your work schedule or timesheets, showing that you were on duty.
- A statement from your employer verifying that the task was job-related.
- Witness testimony, if others were present at the time of the accident.
- Police reports or accident documentation that describes the circumstances surrounding the incident.
What Benefits Can You Receive?
If your car accident is deemed work-related and your workers' compensation claim is approved, you may be entitled to several types of benefits. These typically include:
- Medical expenses, including hospital visits, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages for the time you’re unable to work due to your injury.
- Permanent disability benefits if your injury results in long-term impairment.
- Mileage reimbursement for travel to and from medical appointments.
Get Professional Help to Protect Your Rights
Navigating the complexities of workers' compensation after a work-related car accident can be challenging. Consulting with a workers' compensation attorney can help you understand your rights, gather the necessary documentation, and maximize your chances of receiving the full benefits you deserve.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident while performing job-related duties, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance to ensure your claim is handled correctly. Reach out to Pothitakis Law Firm today at (319) 318-0450 to learn more.
