What to Do If You Are Injured While Driving for Work

Being on the road for work purposes can expose you to several hazards. Whether you’re traveling between meetings in Chicago, delivering goods, or driving a company vehicle for any other purpose, the reality of potential accidents looms large. Knowing the steps to take if injured during such circumstances is vital, both for your well-being and for any legal or compensation matters that may arise.

At Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd., we understand the intricacies of navigating through both workers’ compensation and personal injury claims in the state of Illinois. If you find yourself injured while driving for work, here are some recommended steps to ensure your rights are protected:

1. Prioritize Medical Assistance: Even if your injuries seem minor, seek immediate medical attention. Remember, certain injuries may not manifest immediately after an accident. Timely medical intervention is both beneficial for your health and can serve as vital documentation for any claims.
2. Report the Incident to the Police: Always call the police to the scene. Their report will provide an objective account of the incident, capturing details that might be crucial in determining liability.
3. Gather Necessary Information: If other drivers are involved, collect their names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle registration numbers. Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damages, injuries, and any relevant road signs or signals.
4. Notify Your Employer: In Illinois, it’s essential to report any work-related injury to your employer as soon as possible. This timely reporting aids in the process of claiming workers’ compensation benefits.
5. Maintain a Record: Document every detail related to the incident – from conversations at the scene to subsequent medical appointments and any related expenses. This record can be vital when building a case.
6. Seek Legal Guidance: Before communicating with insurance companies or anyone seeking statements about the accident, consult with an experienced attorney who understands personal injury and workers’ compensation claims in Illinois.

Determining Responsibility and Claiming Compensation

In the aftermath of a work-related driving accident, determining who is at fault can be complex. By Illinois law, if you’re injured during the course of employment, you’re generally entitled to workers’ compensation, irrespective of who was at fault. This compensation can cover lost wages, medical bills, and even vocational training in certain cases.

However, if another party’s negligence caused the accident, you might also have grounds for a personal injury claim. This claim can compensate for damages not covered by workers’ compensation, such as pain and suffering, full lost wages, and long-term care.

Potentially liable parties in a work-related driving accident might include:

• Other drivers.
• Vehicle or parts manufacturers, if defects played a role.
• Government entities, in cases where road conditions or signals contributed to the incident.

Rely on Experienced Representation

Navigating the aftermath of a work-related driving accident can be overwhelming. Balancing recovery with the intricacies of legal proceedings requires expertise.

With years of experience in personal injury law and a deep understanding of Chicago’s local nuances, Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd. is dedicated to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. If you or someone you know has been injured while driving for work in the Chicago area, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for comprehensive guidance and support.