While a significant number of individuals are tied directly to a physical workspace such as an office, a warehouse or a factory setting, there are numerous occupations that keep their workers at the controls of a vehicle. Whether the entire shift is spent behind the wheel, or specific job-related tasks require a vehicle to complete them, workers often find themselves victims of serious collisions.
Data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics highlighted numerous statistics regarding work-related driving fatalities in 2018, including:
- There were 1,276 U.S. worker deaths in motor vehicle crashes (either driving or riding as a passenger) on a public road.
- This accounts for 24% of all work-related deaths in 2018.
- Additionally, 550 worker deaths involved individuals either driving or riding in a vehicle either off a public road or as a pedestrian in a collision.
- 57% of workers who died in 2018 were not employed in an occupation where motor vehicle operation was a job requirement.
- In 2018, there were 325 pedestrian worker fatalities.
Even though there might be overlapping categories, motor vehicle collisions are generally caused by one of three factors:
- Distracted driving: While behind the wheel, drivers are tempted to multitask by making phone calls, eating or personal grooming. Anything that takes their focus away from the road can become a deadly distraction.
- Impaired driving: Historically, this was tied to drivers operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Recently, however, the definition has expanded to include drugs and prescription medication. Anything that impairs a driver’s ability to recognize hazards and quickly react to them is a dangerous substance.
- Drowsy driving: Even though there is no test to determine whether a driver was too tired to operate a motor vehicle, drowsy driving can lead to violent, deadly collisions.
If you were injured in a work-related motor vehicle collision caused by a negligent driver or you have lost a loved one in a wreck, it is wise to seek the guidance of an experienced attorney. Workers’ compensation benefits exist to help you avoid financial peril as you fight to recover physically and financially after an accident.
