Does Workers’ Compensation Cover You on Your Commute to Work?
Imagine this scenario: you are on your way to work, excited to start your day when suddenly, you are involved in a car accident. You sustain serious injuries that require medical attention and prevent you from working for an extended period of time. Without workers’ compensation, you would be left with no income and mounting medical bills.
Unfortunately, most commutes are not covered by workers’ compensation, leaving many employees vulnerable to the financial devastation of work-related injuries sustained during their daily commute. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.
Commutes Are Generally Not Covered by Workers’ Comp
In most cases, commutes to and from work are not covered by workers’ compensation. This is because commuting is considered to be a personal activity, rather than a work-related activity.
Exceptions to the Coming-and-Going Rule
Although employees are typically not covered by workers’ compensation during their regular commute, certain circumstances may be covered if the employee is injured off-site. These situations may include:
- Being injured while using a company vehicle during your commute
- Sustaining an injury while attending a mandatory work function or party at an off-site location
- Sustaining an injury while on a business trip, even if it occurs outside of typical working hours
- Being injured while driving for work, if driving is your primary job
- Any other instances of driving solely for work purposes that result in an injury
Additionally, on-call employees may be eligible for Connecticut workers’ compensation benefits from the moment they are called in to work, even if the injury occurs in their home.
What to Do If You Suffer a Work-Related Injury
If you have suffered a work-related injury during your commute, navigating the workers’ compensation system can be even more complex. It is important to understand your rights and the circumstances in which you may be eligible for benefits. You should also take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your future care.
Firstly, you should notify your employer of your injury as soon as possible. This will allow your employer to start the workers’ compensation process. Seek medical attention right away, even if your injury seems minor, to ensure that your injuries are properly documented. Keep records of your medical treatment and any other expenses related to your injuries, such as transportation costs or prescription fees.
After you have received medical care for your injury, it is important to contact a workers’ compensation lawyer in Connecticut as soon as possible. An attorney can provide valuable insight into the complex workers’ compensation system and help you determine whether you are eligible for benefits.
Having the support of an attorney can also provide you with peace of mind during a difficult time. You can focus on your recovery, while your lawyer handles the legal aspects of your case. With the knowledge and support of a workers’ compensation lawyer, you can take the first steps toward recovering the benefits that you deserve and moving forward with your life, contact us today for a free consultation.