A car accident can leave you feeling frightened and stressed. Experiencing an accident while at work adds an additional layer of confusion on top of the initial shock. At Local Accident Reports, we understand the unique challenges that come with work-related vehicle accidents.
Here, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take after a work accident. Following them will ensure your safety, protect your rights, and help you navigate the process effectively.
What are Work-Related Vehicle Accidents?
Work-related vehicle accidents occur when an individual is involved in a car collision while performing work duties or traveling for work purposes. These accidents can happen in various places, including on construction sites, during deliveries, or while commuting in a company vehicle.
What to Do After a Work-Related Vehicle Accident
The aftermath of any accident can be chaotic. However, you need to follow these steps to ensure your safety and protect your rights.
Ensure Your Safety
- Check Yourself and Others for Injuries: If you’re injured, call 911 immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. Adrenaline can mask the severity of an injury, and a doctor’s evaluation is important for documentation and future treatment.
- Secure the Scene: If possible, turn on your hazard lights and move your vehicle to a safe location off the road, avoiding further hazards.
Report the Accident
- Contact Emergency Services: Furthermore, if there are serious injuries or significant property damage, call 911 even if you’re unsure who will handle the accident report.
- Report the Accident to Your Supervisor: It is crucial to inform your supervisor about the accident as soon as possible, regardless of the severity. Most companies have specific protocols for reporting work-related accidents, so follow their guidelines.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job. Time limits for filing a claim can vary by state, so act promptly. Your employer or human resources department can provide more information on the filing process.
Document the Accident (Gather Evidence)
The more information you have after an accident, the easier it will be to navigate the situation. Here are some important details to document after a work-related car accident:
- The Date, Time, and Location of the Accident: Note down the exact details of when and where the accident occurred.
- The Parties Involved: Exchange contact information with everyone involved, including other drivers, passengers, and any witnesses.
- Details of the Accident: Try to write down a clear and concise account of how the accident happened, including the weather conditions and any contributing factors.
- Photos and Videos: If it’s safe to do so, take pictures of the accident scene, your vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Capture photos from various angles to provide a comprehensive picture of the situation.
- Police Report: If the police responded to the scene, obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
Seek Medical Attention (Protect Your Health)
- See a Doctor: Even if you feel okay initially, get a professional medical evaluation. This will create a record of your injuries and link them to the work accident. Early medical attention can also help identify and address potential complications.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: This includes attending follow-up appointments, completing any prescribed treatments, and adhering to any recommended therapies.
- Keep Medical Records: Maintain copies of all medical bills and records related to your work accident. These will be essential if you pursue workers’ compensation or a personal injury claim.
Consult an Attorney (Getting Legal Advice)
While most work-related accidents are handled through workers’ compensation, there may be instances where it’s wise to consult an attorney specializing in work-related injuries. Here are some situations where legal guidance is recommended:
- Denial of Workers’ Compensation Benefits: If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, an attorney can help you navigate the appeals process.
- Third-Party Liability: If the accident wasn’t your fault and involved a third party (e.g., another driver), you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional damages.
- Complex Injuries: For severe injuries impacting your long-term health and earning potential, an attorney can ensure you receive the appropriate compensation. They can work with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries and project future medical needs, ensuring your settlement or award adequately reflects the long-term impact of the accident.
- Unforeseen Complications: Work-related accidents can sometimes lead to unforeseen complications. An attorney can guide you through such situations and protect your rights if your condition worsens or requires additional treatment.
- Workplace Safety Violations: If the accident happened due to a clear violation of safety regulations by your employer, an attorney can investigate the violation and potentially file a lawsuit to hold them accountable.
Compensation You Can Receive After a Work-Related Vehicle Accident
Getting injured in a car accident while you’re on the job can be a big financial blow, on top of the physical pain. But there’s good news—workers’ compensation can help ease the burden.
Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that provides benefits to employees injured while working. These benefits can include:
- Medical Expenses: Workers’ compensation covers the cost of all necessary medical treatment related to your accident, including doctor visits, medications, surgeries, and physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to a portion of your regular wages while you recover. This is usually a percentage of your average weekly earnings.
- Disability Benefits: For more severe injuries that leave you permanently disabled, workers’ compensation may provide ongoing financial support.
The exact amount of compensation you receive will depend on the severity of your injuries and your lost wages. It’s important to remember that workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you don’t have to prove who caused the accident to receive benefits.
Remember: It’s crucial to file a workers’ compensation claim promptly after a work-related accident. Each state has deadlines for filing, so don’t delay.
Call Local Accident Reports Today
Experiencing a work-related vehicle accident can be a frightening and challenging ordeal. However, knowing how to handle the situation can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety, protecting your rights, and securing the compensation you deserve.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate the aftermath of a work-related vehicle accident with confidence and clarity. Remember, prioritizing safety, seeking medical attention, and seeking legal guidance are essential steps toward recovery and resolution.
At Local Accident Reports, we understand the complexities of work-related vehicle accidents. While this guide provides a general framework for what to do, every situation is unique. If you’ve been involved in a work-related car accident, call Local Accident Reports at (888) 657-1460 to schedule a free consultation with our experienced car accident attorneys.