Driving for work or owning a company vehicle certainly has its benefits. However, driving on the job also comes with great responsibility given the risk involved.
Car accidents are unfortunately part of being on the road. When you are involved in an accident in which another driver was at fault, you could need to file both a personal injury claim against the driver and a workers’ comp claim with your employer.
Actions to take immediately
The moments following an accident can be chaotic, especially if any serious injuries are involved. A company-owned vehicle and on-the-job employee can add an additional layer of complications into the mix.
Here are several steps to take following an accident:
- Seek immediate medical attention. Seeking medical attention should be your first priority if any serious injuries occurred.
- Follow the steps of a normal car accident. If medical attention can be delayed, exchange contact information with the other driver, wait for the police and take pictures of the accident scene if possible. Keep thoroughly detailed documentation.
- Notify your employer immediately. Your employer should be one of your first phone calls to let them know what happened and whether you will be returning to work. If you suffered an injury from the accident, inform them of this.
- File a workers’ comp claim. If you have suffered an injury that affects your ability to work, workers’ comp can provide you with the benefits and compensation you need to recover. Most employers in Pennsylvania are required to have workers’ compensation coverage available for their employees on their first day of work.
Pursuing a personal injury claim
Studies show that employers pay an average of $65,000 per nonfatal injury in motor vehicle crashes that occur while at work. However, depending on the accident and your injuries, you may consider also taking legal action against the other driver if they were at fault. Workers’ comp can provide benefits while you are unable to work; however, damages from a personal injury claim can also compensate you for your suffering.
Navigating the process of filing potentially two different claims while you also focus on recovering can be overwhelming, to say the least. An attorney can assist you in taking all necessary steps to help you recover and eventually return to the workplace.