When people think about being injured at work, they often think of accidents that take place inside their office, at a construction site or in other work areas. However, it is also possible for California workers to suffer injuries on the job when they are not necessarily at their normal work location. For example, if a person is involved in an accident while conducting work-related travel, workers’ compensation may still apply.
Many workers have to travel as part of their work duties. They may need to drive to various locations to pick up supplies, attend a meeting or conference, or work on a long-term project with individuals in another area. Often, this type of travel is considered part of a worker’s duties, and as a result, any injuries that result during this travel could be considered a work-related injury.
Just like other travelers on roadways, individuals on the job can be at risk of suffering injuries in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, impaired driver or due to other circumstances. Additionally, if a worker suffers injuries after arriving at the destination, such as the hotel he or she is staying in for out-of-town work, those injuries may be covered under workers’ comp as well. Employers can do their best to ensure that their workers travel in safe vehicles and have safe accommodations, but injuries are not always avoidable.
If California workers do suffer injuries during the course of work-related travel, they may wonder what they should do. This type of workers’ compensation claim can sometimes be complicated, so it may be important that workers have help when making their claims. Fortunately, experienced attorneys are available for those wishing to have legal assistance.