Truck drivers keep Philadelphia stocked, often working long hours with little room for error. When you’re hurt on the road or at a loading dock, your income can stop overnight. Philly Injury Lawyer helps truck drivers get workers’ comp and go after anyone else who caused the injury.
How Truck Drivers Get Hurt
- Crashes on I-95, I-76, Route 1 and the city’s crowded streets
- Loading and unloading injuries to the back, shoulders and knees
- Falls from the cab, trailer or loading dock
- Cargo shifts and falling freight
- Repetitive strain from long hours behind the wheel
Workers’ Comp for Drivers
If you’re an employee, workers’ comp should cover your medical treatment and part of your lost wages no matter who caused the crash. If you were hurt out of state, Pennsylvania workers’ comp may still apply if your job is based here.
“Independent Contractor” or Employee?
Many drivers are labeled independent contractors. That label isn’t the final word. Pennsylvania looks at how much control the company has over your work: your routes, schedule, truck, and how you’re paid. Many drivers called contractors are actually employees entitled to workers’ comp. The Department of Labor & Industry explains the difference.
Claims Against Other Drivers and Companies
If another driver caused your crash, you can bring a claim against that driver on top of workers’ comp. Other possible claims include a shipper that loaded cargo badly, a dock owner with an unsafe ramp, or the maker of defective truck parts. See Workers’ Comp and Third-Party Injury Claims.
Hurt Behind the Wheel? Call Us
Call (215) 735-4800. It’s free to talk, and we only get paid if we win. We Win or It’s Free®.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get workers’ comp if the crash was my fault?
Yes. Workers’ comp is no-fault, so you can usually collect even if you caused the crash.
What if I was hurt in another state?
You may be able to choose Pennsylvania workers’ comp if your job is based here. Talk to us before filing anywhere.
I’m an owner-operator. Am I covered?
It depends on your agreement and how the company controls your work. Some owner-operators are covered as employees; others may have occupational accident policies or claims against other drivers.
Pennsylvania Law in Plain English
Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation Act can cover drivers injured outside the state when their employment is based here. Drivers injured by others may also bring a regular injury claim against the at-fault party, and federal hours-of-service rules can be important evidence in a crash case.
