Many drivers here in Georgia commute for work. Some employees may also drive as a part of their regular duties. The key to getting a Worker’s Compensation carrier to approve a claim after an accident is that the injured worker must be on the job when they are behind the wheel. This can be especially helpful if the worker is out of work for an extended period or permanently.

It should also be noted that, unlike a personal injury claim, Worker’s Compensation claims can also cover accidents caused by the worker. In other words, they can be negligent and still get benefits for medical care, replacement income, costs for retraining, compensation for permanent injuries, or survivor benefits.

Common reasons for coverage

Generally speaking, the driver must be working to advance the interests of their employer. Examples include:

• A driver who delivers goods or does work-related tasks
• A driver who transports a fellow employee who is also working
• A driver who paid to commute to work
• A driver who is a remote worker who drives on the job

Reasons to deny the claim

The details involving each injury will be different, but some common reasons to deny a claim include:

• The worker was conducting private business, such as stopping for lunch or doing a personal errand.
• The worker was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident.

Carrier may initially reject a claim

Depending upon the details surrounding the injury or its severity, the injured worker may need help from an attorney with experience handling Worker’s Compensation claims here in Georgia. These legal professionals can help clients fill out their paperwork (thus improving their chances of approval) and help defend the client if a dispute over a claim goes before a judge.