There is no shortage of jobs across the United States that require employees to drive either to and from work sites or as part of their job responsibilities. Unfortunately, these driving duties increase the likelihood of car accidents. Your employer should provide workers’ compensation benefits to you if you were injured in a car crash while on the job and performing a work-related task.
Filing for benefits in the aftermath of work-related auto accidents in Van Nuys can be challenging without skilled legal representation due to specific legal requirements that must be met. Working with an expert workers’ compensation attorney is essential to filing a successful workplace accident claim and maximizing your benefits.
In theory, workers’ compensation for work-related car crashes in Van Nuys is meant to cover any injuries that directly result from a person’s job. You should have access to benefits through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance coverage to aid your recovery. However, there is an important exception to this coverage known as the “going and coming” rule. This rule establishes that commutes to and from work are not considered “work-related” tasks and, therefore, do not qualify for workers’ compensation coverage.
In this case, you likely will not have access to workers’ compensation benefits for injuries sustained in the accident. However, if you were driving from one job site to another during your shift, traveling for an off-site business event, making deliveries for your employer, or otherwise driving for a job-related task, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits under state law. Therefore, documenting your work-related duties is crucial to substantiating your claim.
To file a workers’ compensation claim in Van Nuys after work-related car accidents, individuals must notify their employer of their injuries as soon as possible after an incident. Once your employer is notified, you should receive a Form DWC-1, and you will need to fill out the “employee” section of the form. A diligent lawyer could assist you in filling out this form and ensuring it is submitted promptly, preventing unnecessary delays.
Once the form is returned to your employer and they submit it to their insurance provider, you should receive medical treatment for your injuries from an employer-approved physician and follow all doctor’s instructions. Individuals are entitled to compensation for all “reasonably necessary” medical care expenses and temporary disability benefits if their injuries prevent them from working. Additionally, depending on the severity of a person’s injuries, they may also qualify for permanent disability benefits if they are unable to work for an extended period.
If your job duties require you to operate a vehicle, you are eligible for benefits from your employer under workers’ compensation. However, the compensation claims process for work-related auto accidents in Van Nuys can be complex. Our team is prepared to provide you with the legal support you need and address any concerns you may have.
Our expert compensation lawyers could help you navigate the legal process and tirelessly fight for your rights. The attorneys at Glauber Berenson Vego could evaluate your case and offer tailored strategies to help you secure the compensation you deserve. For more information about work injury benefits claims, schedule a consultation with our team today.
