Workers’ Compensation laws are set up to insure that employees injured on the job receive medical care and lost wages. Over the years, employers have worked to increase safety regulations in order to reduce accidents. While it is true that on-the-job injuries are declining, there is one area that is on the rise, motor vehicle accidents that occur during the course and scope of an employee’s job.
Analysis by the National Council on Compensation Insurance suggests that this may be due to an increases use of smartphones. This theory comes from the fact that such crashes have increased since these technological marvels became more prevalent; the possible reason is due to driver distraction. Data from the National Safety Council indicates that at least 27% of all crashes involve people who are texting or talking on their phones. In fact, the real numbers might be even higher as many drivers refuse to admit that fact. As a result, many states now require the use of a hands free device for a phone while driving. Some employers even mandate the use of an app to block texting while driving. Due to these findings, the NCCI has informed Florida employers about the possibility of higher workers’ compensation premiums for jobs related to driving. This may include positions like bus drivers, taxi drivers, truckers and salespeople.
Often times, a Coral Springs Workers’ Compensation attorney may be able to obtain multiple recoveries for injured person who was driving during the course of their job. Unlike in the workers’ compensation arena, the employee can choose his/her own doctors. That in turn leads to better treatment and a potential higher settlement.
If you or someone that you know has suffered from an injury at work while driving for a company purpose, they should seek legal representation right away! The Law Offices of Evan M. Ostfeld, can handle both cases. Call Evan and his team at (866) I SUE YOU, (866) 478-3968 to set up a free consultation today.