A Look At Common Work-Related Injuries Truck Drivers Face On The Job
As a truck driver, the majority of your day is spent behind the wheel of a truck, so you may think that worker's comp claims would be few and far between. However, truck drivers are just as likely to get injured on the job as someone working in retail, fast food, or a medical care facility. The truth is, there are just as many risks associated with being a truck driver as there are with any job; your risks of injury are just a bit different. Take a look at some of the most common on-the-job injuries truck drivers sustain that lead to filing worker's compensation claims.
Injuries caused by fallen objects when securing a load.
Part of your job responsibilities as a truck driver will be helping to secure loads when you pick up a new one. It is not uncommon for drivers to get struck by falling straps, ties, and materials when they are trying to secure a load. Unfortunately, these injuries can be pretty serious, sometimes even involving severe head trauma due to blunt force injury.
Injuries caused by slips and falls.
Climbing up and down out of a big rig can be risky. All it takes is a misstep and you can find yourself on the ground with injuries like a broken ankle, bruising and contusions, or other severely painful ailments. A lot of truckers do have to file worker's compensation claims because of slips, trips, and falls, and a lot of times, these falls are relative to just getting in and out of their truck. However, falls can also occur when a driver is securing a load, especially if they have to climb up on the flatbed to tie down straps and secure items.
Injuries caused during an automobile accident.
Even though accidents involving a big truck are more likely to injure drivers in a regular passenger vehicle, you can sustain injuries during an accident just the same as the driver of the bigger vehicle. Semi truck rollovers are a common occurrence when the roadway conditions are slick, and this kind of accident can leave you with a whole list of injuries.
If you have been injured on the job as a truck driver, it is wise to speak with a worker's compensation attorney like those at Prediletto, Halpin, Scharnikow & Nelson, P.S. for advice. The professional will guide you in making the right moves in your claim so you are fairly compensated for your injuries.
Share