Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim as a Trucker in Chicago

Trucking is one of the country’s biggest industries, and many people in Chicago earn a living by delivering vital goods. Trucking is also an extremely dangerous industry, and many truckers die each year due to fatal auto accidents. Many also suffer debilitating injuries, preventing them from ever working again. What can you do in this situation? Is it possible to file a workers’ compensation claim in Chicago?

Common Injuries for Truckers in Chicago

Truckers may suffer various injuries while working, and not all of these accidents may occur on the road. For example, a trucker might suffer a crush-related injury while carrying out repair work or routine checks on their vehicle. They might also slip and fall on a puddle of engine oil while walking around their truck.

That being said, many of the most serious injuries occur while truckers are actively driving their vehicles. These accidents might involve colliding with other vehicles, running off the road, or being ejected from their trucks.

Common auto accident injuries for truckers include whiplash, fractures, lacerations, spinal cord injuries, burns, and much more. Truckers might also suffer repetitive strain injuries after sitting in the same position for long periods of time. These may lead to perfectly legitimate workers’ compensation claims, and truckers should not hesitate to file injury reports after noticing back strains or similar issues.

What if I Caused My Own Truck Accident?

If you caused your own truck accident, you should still have the right to pursue compensation. Workers’ comp is a no-fault system, which means that you should receive some degree of financial support even if you are to blame for your own injuries. Perhaps you fell asleep behind the wheel before veering off the road. Maybe you become distracted by your phone before crashing. Whatever the case may be, a claim could still be possible, and you should speak with a lawyer before dismissing this possibility entirely.

That being said, you could lose access to compensation if you were intoxicated at the time of your accident. This is one of the few exceptions to the no-fault system of workers’ comp. If you have been accused of crashing your truck while intoxicated, speak with a lawyer. It may still be possible to pursue positive outcomes.

What Can Families Do After Fatal Truck Accidents?

A family may file a claim for death benefits if their loved one dies while driving a truck in Chicago. This type of compensation covers the loss of future earnings, funeral expenses, and any medical expenses your loved one might have incurred before passing.

Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Chicago Help an Injured Trucker?

A workers’ compensation lawyer in Chicago may be able to help injured truckers. You may be able to receive compensation for missed income, medical costs, and even vocational rehabilitation. If you’re dealing with a denied claim, assistance from an experienced lawyer may be particularly useful. Consider speaking with Connolly Injury Law to learn more about your options.

Sources:

 chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fin/provdrs/Workers-Compensation.html

illinois.gov/agencies/agency.iwcc.html