Motor Vehicle Accidents & Workers’ Compensation

When we think of workers’ compensation claims, we think of accidents that occur in the workplace – from slip & fall injuries to carpal tunnel syndrome.  While we may not immediately think of motor vehicle accidents, injuries resulting from this type of accident are sometimes eligible for workers’ compensation coverage.

Under what circumstances do injuries resulting from car accidents qualify for workers’ compensation benefits?

Injuries covered under workers’ compensation can include car accidents that occur while an employee is performing a job-related task, such as:

• Making a delivery
• Running a work-related errand
• Driving a coworker for work-related purposes
• Travel for which the employee is being compensated

Workers whose jobs are driving-based or whose vehicles serve as their office may also be eligible for workers’ compensation in the event of a car accident during work-related activity.

If an accident occurs on the employee’s time, as opposed to during working hours, the accident is typically ineligible for workers’ compensation due to not being considered work-related.

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, which means that even if the employee is at fault for the motor vehicle accident, he or she is usually still eligible to claim workers’ compensation benefits for injuries sustained.  This does not, however, include accidents during which the worker is under the influence of drugs or narcotics.

If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident while performing a work-related task, we at Hubir & Palsir, LLC in Philadelphia, PA can help you determine if you are eligible for workers’ compensation for injuries you may have sustained.  Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or to seek assistance with your workers’ compensation claim!