Shuttle Drivers and Workers’ Compensation As a shuttle driver, you may make dozens of trips every day to help people get to their destination. Driving a van or bus through traffic to reach airports, subway stations, or office buildings defines your job description. Regardless of your spotless driving record or your attentiveness to your surroundings, you can still suffer an injury while on the job. Workers’ comp insurance is designed to protect you while you at work. Your employer is required to maintain coverage for employees at no cost to the worker. Each state has its own laws regarding workers’ comp, but it is there to cover medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages if you are hurt while on duty. Kinds of Injuries Suffered by a Shuttle Driver As a shuttle driver, you could be injured in a crash when the shuttle is struck by another vehicle. During the winter months, you could slip on ice and strike your head getting in or out of the vehicle. If the vehicle doesn't want to start, something as simple as checking under the hood could result in severe burns from the battery or the radiator. Injuries could vary from the more serious, such as third-degree burns or head trauma, to the less serious, such as lacerations and back strain. Regardless of the injury, you will have medical expenses and lose time away from work. That is where workers’ comp comes into play so you don’t have to worry about making sure your family’s needs are met. Steps to Take if Injured at Work If you are hurt on the job, you should notify a supervisor right away and explain what happened. Of course if you are seriously injured, such as in a car accident, it may be a good idea to call 911 and be transported by ambulance. Regardless of how minor the injury may appear, you may need to get medical treatment right away. Even small lacerations can become infected if not properly treated. Make sure an accident report is completed at work. If you have to call 911, the police will respond with the ambulance so they will also complete a report which you will need for your records. Give vivid details about the accident. Your memory is more clear right after the accident occurs. Make sure any witnesses provide their information as well. Details and reports are an important part of a href ="">your workers’ comp claim. Consult with a Workers’ Comp Attorney Don’t try to haggle with the insurance company by yourself. Consult with a workers’ comp attorney who will make sure you don’t sign away your rights. You need to follow doctor’s orders and not return to work before they release you. An attorney will make sure all your medical expenses are covered and you have access to medical professionals for any future care. An attorney will also make sure you are fairly compensated for your time off from work. If you are injured, you need to spend your time recovering. You shouldn’t have to spend that time worrying if your family’s needs will be met because you aren’t bringing in a regular paycheck. An attorney will work for you, making sure you get what you deserve and you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
