Can A Worker Claim Compensation If They Are Injured While Traveling For Work?

If a worker is injured while traveling for work, they may be eligible to claim compensation under worker’s compensation laws, depending on the nature of the injury and the circumstances. Work-related injuries during travel are often covered by employer insurance, but the eligibility for compensation depends on whether the injury is directly related to the worker's job responsibilities.

Steps to Take After Injury:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention:

The first priority should be to get medical help, whether the injury is minor or severe. Document all medical visits and treatments as they will be essential for the compensation claim.

Notify Your Employer:

Inform your employer about the injury as soon as possible. Provide all relevant details about the incident, including when and where it happened, and how it occurred.

File an Injury Report:

In many cases, workers are required to submit a formal injury report to their employer. Ensure the report accurately reflects the details of the injury and its connection to the work travel.

Preserve Evidence:

Gather evidence such as photographs, witness statements, or any documentation that shows how the injury occurred. If possible, preserve any physical evidence related to the injury.

Review Your Employer’s Insurance Coverage:

Understand whether your employer has worker’s compensation insurance that covers injuries sustained during travel. This can impact the compensation process.

File a Worker’s Compensation Claim:

Submit a claim to your employer’s insurance provider or directly to the relevant worker’s compensation board. Make sure to follow any deadlines for reporting injuries to avoid losing your right to claim.

Legal Actions and Protections:

Consult a Lawyer:

If your employer’s insurance denies the claim, or if there are disputes about the severity of your injury, it’s important to consult a lawyer specializing in worker’s compensation. A lawyer can help advocate for your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Appealing a Denied Claim:

If your claim is denied, you may have the right to appeal the decision. This may involve providing additional evidence or seeking a formal hearing before a workers' compensation board.

Potential Legal Action:

In cases where the injury was caused by a third party (such as a car accident caused by another driver), you may have the option to file a personal injury lawsuit in addition to your worker’s compensation claim.

Example:

John, a delivery driver for a company, was injured in a car accident while traveling to a client’s location for work. After the accident, he:

• Immediately sought medical attention and kept all records of his treatments.
• Informed his employer about the incident and filed an injury report.
• Preserved evidence from the accident, including photos of the damaged vehicle and his injuries.
• Submitted a worker’s compensation claim, which his employer’s insurance accepted.

John was compensated for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs under the worker’s compensation policy.