Can Car Crash Injuries Be Covered by Workers’ Comp?

While it may be more limited these days, travel is a part of many people’s regular work routine. And, as we all know, travel comes with its own risks. If you have been injured in a car accident that is connected to your job, you may be wondering whether the accident would be covered by workers’ compensation. In our latest blog post, The Law Offices of Laura Lanzisera is taking a look at when workers’ comp may cover your car accident.

Car Crash Happens While You’re At Work

You are entitled to workers’ comp when you experience an injury or illness arising out of and during the course of your employment. This includes injuries due to a car crash. If you are involved in a vehicle crash during work hours, while you are carrying out your work duties, then you can file a workers’ comp claim.

Car Crash Happens During Commute To/From Work

If you were driving to or from work when your car crash happened, you might not be entitled to workers’ compensation. Under Georgia law, an employer does not have to pay workers’ comp benefits to employees who are injured during their regular work commute. They are not responsible for covering any time that you missed from work because of your car crash injuries or any medical bills that resulted from the treatment of your injuries. This can also apply to employees injured during their lunch break because they were “off the clock” and not actually working at the time.

Car Crash May Be Connected To Your Work Duties

Car crashes are fact-sensitive, and, as a result, your employer may need to take a closer look at whether you were “within the course of employment” when your accident happened. For example, if you were involved in a car accident while on your lunch break, you may not be eligible. But if you were running work errands on your lunch break, then the accident could be covered by workers’ comp. Here are a few special situations in which an employee may be entitled to workers’ comp:

• Employment is related to travel or transportation, like a delivery driver
• Employee is traveling to/from job sites or driving to an offsite location
• Employee is running a special, work-related errand at the time of the accident
• Employee is driving in a company-owned vehicle
• Employee is traveling for a business trip

Need help with your workers’ compensation case? Call The Law Offices of Laura Lanzisera.

Car accidents can often present complicated legal issues for injured employees. You need an attorney who will advocate for you and will guide you through the workers’ compensation process. If you have been injured in a car accident related to your job and need help with your workers’ compensation case, contact The Law Offices of Laura Lanzisera. Our team can explain Georgia’s workers’ compensation system and the benefits available for your injury or disability. Contact our office today for a free consultation.