There are many kinds of jobs that require workers to spend at least part of their day driving. For instance, those who service office machines typically have to go to sites where the machines are located. Likewise, mailroom employees may have to go to the post office and other locations to pick up and distribute mail. And of course, sales representatives often make personal calls on clients.
By implementing a Motor Vehicle Safety Program, an employer can help workers stay safe when performing driving duties at work. Such a program can be created to meet the specific needs of the company. But the following are a few policies that employers should likely consider:
- Drivers and supervisors should be in agreement on routes and schedules.
- Drivers should be allowed enough time to reach their destinations without having to exceed speed limits.
- Drivers should be required to always wear seat belts.
- Employers should ban the use of mobile devices for making calls or texting.
- Employers should assess all potential road, vehicle and driver hazards, and take measures to limit or eliminate these hazards.
If part of your time at work is spent driving, you typically have the same workers’ compensation rights as you would if you spent the entire day at a single site. This means if you are injured in a motor vehicle accident while in service to your employer, you are eligible to file a claim and receive benefits.
Motor vehicle accidents can leave victims with injuries that require hospitalization. But in some cases, the true severity of an injury is not readily apparent, meaning it is important to monitor your personal well-being after the accident and report any problems to your employer.
You also may want to discuss your case with a workers’ compensation attorney. The attorney can help you file a claim that accounts for your injuries and your needs. The attorney could also act on your behalf if you have trouble getting the benefits you are due.