A motor vehicle accident that happens while you’re working can be terrifying. Whether you were driving a company vehicle or using your own car for work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if you suffer injuries in a crash. At Calhoon & Kaminsky P.C., we understand the stress and uncertainty accident victims often feel when recovering from a serious collision. Our Hershey workers’ comp attorneys can guide you through the claims process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
With over 20 years of experience representing Pennsylvanians in workers’ compensation cases, Calhoon & Kaminsky P.C. has successfully obtained more than $221 million for injured workers. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
What Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents Fall Under Workers’ Compensation?
Not all traffic crashes make you eligible for workers’ compensation. To qualify, the car accident must have occurred while you were performing job-related duties. Some common scenarios that may allow you to bring a valid workers’ comp claim for a motor vehicle accident include:
- Driving a company car for work-related tasks
- Making deliveries or running errands for your employer
- Transporting other employees or work materials
- Traveling between job sites if you don’t have a fixed workplace
- Attending work-related meetings, conferences, or events
If you were involved in a motor vehicle accident while working in any of these situations, you may be able to apply for workers’ comp benefits. However, a crash during your daily commute may not qualify unless you were performing a job duty along the way.
Understanding the specifics of your case is crucial to determining eligibility for workers’ comp for motor vehicle accidents. It’s wise to ask a Hershey workers’ compensation lawyer to assess your situation before applying for benefits.
Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
To be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits after a motor vehicle accident while working, you must meet specific criteria:
- The collision and injury must result from activities performed in the course and scope of your employment.
- You are classified as an employee, not an independent contractor.
- Your employer has workers’ compensation insurance. Most Pennsylvania employers do.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers can help determine whether you qualify for benefits.
Common Injuries Sustained in Hershey Motor Vehicle Accidents
Traffic accidents can result in a range of injuries, many of which may be severe and long-lasting. Examples include:
- Soft tissue injuries, including sprains and strains
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding
Even minor injuries can significantly impact your ability to work and perform daily tasks. Workers’ compensation can help cover your medical bills and lost wages while you heal from a job-related crash.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for a Motor Vehicle Accident
If you’ve been involved in a collision while performing job duties, follow these steps to build a strong workers’ compensation claim:
- Seek medical attention – Your health should be your top priority. See a doctor and get a thorough medical evaluation, even if you believe your injuries are minor.
- Report the accident – In Pennsylvania, you should report your injury to your employer within 21 days but no later than 120 days after the accident to maintain your eligibility for workers’ comp benefits. The best practice is to notify your employer immediately and in writing.
- File a workers’ comp claim – You must file your workers’ compensation claim with the Workers’ Compensation Office of Adjudication within three years of the date of the accident. Failing to meet these deadlines can jeopardize your right to compensation.
- Document everything – Keep detailed records of the crash, including photos, medical reports, witness information, and any communications with your employer or their insurance company.
A Hershey workers’ compensation attorney from Calhoon & Kaminsky P.C. can help prepare and submit your claim to avoid denials based on administrative errors or technicalities.
Common Issues and Disputes in Motor Vehicle Workers’ Compensation Claims
Workers’ compensation cases are not always straightforward. Insurance companies may deny or dispute claims, leaving injured workers without the benefits they deserve.
Common issues that arise from workers’ comp claims for motor vehicle accidents include:
- Disputes over eligibility – The insurance company may argue that the accident did not occur within the course of your employment or while you were performing job-related duties.
- Denial of benefits – Employers or their insurers may deny your claim outright, claiming that you weren’t injured or that your injuries are unrelated to the motor vehicle accident.
- Delays in receiving benefits – Some employees face delays in getting medical treatment or wage benefits, putting them under significant financial strain.
- Underpayment of benefits – In some cases, workers receive less compensation than they are entitled to for medical expenses or lost wages.
If you’re facing any of these issues in Hershey, contact an experienced workers’ comp lawyer for help enforcing your rights to these no-fault state benefits.
Why You Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Motor Vehicle Accidents
Dealing with a workers’ compensation motor vehicle accident claim can be challenging, especially when you need to focus on your recovery. Hiring a knowledgeable attorney can make all the difference. At Calhoon & Kaminsky P.C., we will:
- Investigate the crash and gather evidence to support your claim
- Complete and submit the necessary workers’ compensation claim paperwork
- Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf
- Advocate for your right to full benefits for your injuries
- Represent you in any disputes or hearings, including appealing denied claims
With over two decades of experience handling workers’ compensation cases in Pennsylvania, our legal team understands the tactics insurance adjusters use to deny or minimize claims. We are committed to protecting your rights and securing the benefits you are owed.
Contact Our Hershey Workers’ Compensation Lawyers for Help
If you sustained injuries in a car accident on the job, you don’t have to manage the workers’ comp process alone. Seek help from the Hershey workers’ compensation lawyers at Calhoon & Kaminsky P.C. today. Call or contact us now for a free consultation.
