There is often confusion around when workers’ compensation will or will not cover a person’s injuries. Many people realize that they can receive compensation if they’re hurt while they’re in the office or on a specific work site. They know that they can seek compensation if they’re completing work tasks when they’re injured and are on the clock.
What about traveling for business, though? Technically, those who are traveling may not be on the clock. They may not be using a company vehicle. Is this still compensable?
If you’re traveling for work, then you should be covered
In the majority of cases, any traveling you do for work will still be covered by workers’ compensation. Why? You wouldn’t have been involved in a hazardous situation or accident if you had not been performing a task for your employer.
There are a few good examples of when travel may be covered by workers’ compensation. For example:
- If you are traveling because you’re a delivery driver, then you should be covered while you travel.
- If you’re traveling to get to a business meeting that you are required to attend, then you should be covered.
- If you are asked to transport a client to a meeting on behalf of your employer, you may be covered.
There are situations that may not be covered, too, that you should remember. For instance, driving to or from work and home happens when you’re off the clock. It’s unlikely that a crash during that trip would be covered. On the other hand, if you were traveling from work to a client’s location and back, then you would be likely to receive coverage if you got into a car crash.
What should you do if you applied for compensation but were denied?
If you sought workers’ compensation after a crash but were denied the benefits you feel you deserve, it’s important to look into appealing your claim. Your attorney can help you put together your case to show why you should be covered for being hurt while performing tasks for your employer. Any miscommunication can be cleared up, so you can determine who should pay for your losses.