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Work-related vehicle crashes can be deadly

On Behalf of | May 4, 2021 | Workers' Compensation

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.