Car accidents are one of the most common ways employees get injured on the job. Whether you drive for a living, travel between job sites, or were simply running a work-related errand, a crash during work hours may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Wisconsin.
Unfortunately, many injured workers are unsure whether they have a valid claim after a work-related car accident. Questions about insurance, fault, medical bills, and lost wages can quickly become overwhelming.
Here is what Wisconsin workers should know after being injured while driving for work.
When Is a Car Accident Considered Work-Related?
In Wisconsin, a car accident may qualify for workers’ compensation if it happened while you were performing job-related duties. This can include:
- Driving to a client meeting
- Traveling between job sites
- Making deliveries
- Running errands for your employer
- Transporting equipment or materials
- Traveling for business purposes
Even if you were driving your personal vehicle, you may still qualify for benefits if the trip was work-related.
However, accidents that occur during a normal commute to and from work are usually not covered under workers’ compensation. There can be exceptions depending on the circumstances.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits May Cover
If your accident qualifies as work-related, workers’ compensation benefits may help cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Mileage reimbursement for medical appointments
- Temporary or permanent disability benefits
Workers’ compensation is designed to provide benefits regardless of who caused the accident. In most cases, you do not need to prove your employer was at fault.
Can You Sue the Other Driver?
In some situations, you may have both:
- A workers’ compensation claim, and
- A personal injury claim against the at-fault driver
For example, if another driver caused the crash while you were working, you may be able to pursue compensation through both claims.
A personal injury claim may allow you to recover damages that workers’ compensation does not typically cover, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Full lost income
- Future medical expenses
Because these cases can involve multiple insurance companies and overlapping claims, it is important to understand all available legal options.
What to Do After a Work-Related Car Accident
The steps you take after the accident can affect your claim.
1. Report the Accident
Notify your employer as soon as possible. Delays in reporting a workplace injury can create complications with your claim.
2. Seek Medical Treatment
Even if injuries seem minor at first, getting medical care creates documentation connecting the injuries to the accident.
3. Document the Scene
If possible, gather:
- Photos of the vehicles
- Contact information for witnesses
- Police report details
- Insurance information
4. Keep Records
Save copies of:
- Medical bills
- Treatment records
- Time missed from work
- Communication with insurance companies
Common Challenges in Work-Related Car Accident Claims
Insurance companies may dispute whether:
- The accident happened during work duties
- Your injuries are serious
- Your medical treatment was necessary
- You are able to return to work
These issues can become more complicated when multiple insurance policies are involved.
Speak With a Wisconsin Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you were injured in a car accident while working, you may have rights under both Wisconsin workers’ compensation law and personal injury law. Understanding the difference between these claims can make a significant difference in the compensation available to you.
An experienced attorney can help protect your rights, communicate with insurance companies, and determine all possible sources of compensation after a work-related crash.
If you were injured in a work-related car accident in Wisconsin and have questions about your rights or benefits, contact Bykhovsky Law to discuss your case and learn how we may be able to help.
