What is Workers' Compensation?

At some point in your working life, you’ve probably seen a workers’ compensation sign posted in a break room or other common work area. But, we’re willing to bet that you haven’t taken the time to actually read through it.

That’s understandable! Workers’ compensation is one of those things that you don’t tend to think about until you need it. But, it can work to your advantage to know the basics so you’ll feel more prepared should you ever need to file a claim.

Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that’s part of the U.S. Department of Labor. It’s designed to provide disability compensation to those who suffer a workplace injury.

This ensures that if you’re injured while working, your medical and rehabilitation expenses will be covered. Additionally, you’ll be protected against lost wages while you’re out of work and recovering.

If an employee dies as a result of a work injury, workers’ compensation also pays out death benefits to the employee’s family.

Does Workers' Compensation Cover a Car Accident in a Company Vehicle?

Workers’ compensation benefits can vary by state, so we’ll focus on New York state laws, as that’s where we’re located. If you’re in a different state, you’ll want to look up the laws as it relates to your location.

Fortunately, the New York State requires almost all employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance.

So, generally speaking, you should be eligible for workers’ compensation if you’re in a car accident in a company vehicle in New York. However, there are a few exceptions.

Workers’ compensation does not cover accidents in which you were drinking and driving, breaking the law, driving recklessly, or breaking company policy.

If your accident wasn’t caused by any of those reasons listed above, then you will almost certainly be covered by workers’ compensation. That means you’ll receive payments to cover lost wages, medical and rehabilitation expenses, prescription costs, and damage to the company vehicle.

Make Sure You Know Your Rights

If you’re in a car accident in a company vehicle, you need to know your rights. Read through our New York personal injury blog for more information about what to do if you need to file a claim.

And if you’re suffering from injuries, you’ll want to visit an accident doctor as soon as possible to be thoroughly checked out.

The longer you wait, the more you put yourself at risk of not taking full advantage of your workers’ compensation rights.

Rest assured that we’re here to help you navigate this stressful time.