Highway maintenance workers are responsible for maintaining the highways to ensure they are safe for drivers. There are different tasks for different workers. Depending on the duties of the highway maintenance workers, the job duties might vary from getting debris off the roadways to handling construction projects, such as building bridges or patching potholes. All highway maintenance worker jobs have their own inherent risks. Common Injuries Suffered By Highway Maintenance Workers Highway maintenance workers can suffer serious injuries. These workers might be hurt by passing vehicles throwing debris at them or they could be hit by a vehicle. Highway maintenance workers use tools and equipment as well. They might suffer a crushed foot from a paving machine malfunction, or a serious back injury from lifting a case of supplies for a construction project. A fall from a scaffold at an overpass could cause serious neck and head injuries. Having a leg run over by a roller could result in amputation of the limb. The dangers are real, and the injuries could be life-altering. You might become permanently disabled and you might have to undergone extensive therapy. Surgical procedures might be necessary and long-term care might be required. What to Do If You Are Hurt and Suffered Injuries as a Highway Maintenance Worker If you are hurt while performing your duties as a highway maintenance worker, you should immediately notify your supervisor. An accident report must be completed. You will need to make sure everything is documented, so your employer is aware of your situation. You should establish medical care immediately. If injuries are serious, then call for an ambulance. If injuries aren’t as serious, be sure to see a physician from the approved list of workers’ compensation caregivers for your employer. Most employers have the list published in a visible location, but if you don’t see it, then ask your manager for details. You want to make sure you follow proper protocol, so you don’t lose benefits. What Workers’ Compensation Can Help Pay For Workers’ compensation benefits can be very helpful while you are recovering after a workplace accident. Workers’ compensation offers medical benefits, which means they will cover the cost of all your medical expenses while you are recovering from your injuries. They also offer compensation for lost wages. Usually, you will be compensated for about two-thirds your regular pay while you are unable to work. You will need to maintain doctor’s notes that indicate your inability to work of if you have any restrictions. You must maintain copies of all documentation. It is also wise to maintain a journal that details the severity of your injuries and how you are affected so you can keep the physician informed about your condition and how you are recovering. Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you suffered injuries while performing duties as a highway maintenance worker, you should consult with a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney. Such claims can be complicated, so you want to make sure you have the representation you need to protect your rights and ensure access to the benefits that you are entitled after being injured on the job as a highway maintenance worker. To discuss your case with an experienced lawyer, complete the Free Case Evaluation on this page. Additional Resources How Much Is Whiplash Worth? Work-related Vehicle Accident and Workers' Compensation
