In today’s society, many jobs require some degree of driving. If you’re required to operate a vehicle to fulfill job-related activities, you may wonder what happens if you’re involved in a car accident. If you’re injured in a work-related car accident while operating a company-issued or personal vehicle, you may find it challenging to determine liability and question whether you can receive workers’ compensation benefits. Unfortunately, work-related crashes are alarmingly common. If you’ve been injured in an accident while you were “on the clock,” it’s in your best interest to contact our talented Santa Clara County Car Accident Attorneys, who can help you navigate this complex process.
Are employers liable for injuries in a work-related accident?
Suppose you were involved in a car accident while performing your job duties, regardless of whether you were operating a company-issued or personal vehicle. In that case, your employer would likely be held liable for the accident. Ultimately, this is because of vicarious liability. This legal doctrine emanates from the recognition that employers bear accountability for the actions of their employees. Essentially, vicarious liability attaches employer liability to that of their employees.
Can you get workers’ compensation benefits following a work-related car accident in California?
When an employee sustains a serious injury or illness directly from their job, their future could be negatively affected, and their livelihood may be jeopardized. Due to these potentially devastating consequences, injured workers are usually eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits to cover the costs of their damages. That said, an employee’s work-related car accident would likely be covered under a workers’ compensation claim.
What should I do if I’m hurt on the job?
If you were seriously injured in a work-related car accident, you may fear being fired. However, taking the necessary steps to safeguard your rights is essential during this critical time. First, you should contact emergency services to seek immediate medical attention. After the police arrive, you should file a police report, as it will serve as a crucial piece of evidence later on. It’s also essential to remain at the accident scene until the police arrive; if you flee the scene, you could face criminal charges.
If you’ve suffered minor injuries, you should exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the crash. If you’re physically capable, you should gather as much evidence as possible. This includes taking pictures of the accident scene and your injuries and collecting contact information from witnesses. Furthermore, you must notify your employer of the accident. This is one of the most critical steps in filling a workers’ compensation claim. Failure to report your injuries promptly could result in your claim being denied.
If you’ve been seriously injured in a work-related car accident, please don’t hesitate to contact a determined attorney from the Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady. Our legal team is prepared to help you fight for the financial compensation you’re entitled to.
