For injured truckers, there is almost always a tough road to recovery ahead. The nature of the job doesn't allow for them to work unless they are in the best shape possible. Even injuries that wouldn't hurt other workers' ability to perform their job duties can keep a trucker out of the cab. Here are some points to know about injuries that truckers might face:
Injuries from driving
There are three primary types of injuries that truckers might suffer from driving long hours. One of these is neck and spine injuries that are caused by the pressure on these areas when you sit down. The bouncing of the cab can exacerbate any neck or back injuries, which means that truck drivers must address them immediately. Another type of injury has to do with the hands and arms. It is possible that these professional drivers might suffer from carpal tunnel damage or shoulder injuries just because of the way they have to manipulate the wheel of the rig. The third type of injury is a leg injury. The bent position of the legs and the stress on the ankles while driving can lead to knee or ankle injuries.
Problems from loading and unloading
Some truckers are required to help load and unload the truck. These activities, plus having to secure the cargo, can lead to back and shoulder injuries from having to lift, pull and bend. These injuries can occur all at once, but they might also be cumulative injuries that get worse as time goes on. Sometimes, a trucker has to work in snowy, icy or wet conditions. These slick surfaces can lead to a fall while they are unloading, loading or securing cargo.
Issues due to accidents
On top of all of those hazards, truckers also face the possibility of being involved in an accident on the road. This can lead to serious injuries, such as spinal cord or brain injuries. Many of these injuries can be career ending. Couple that with the fact that people may try to blame the trucker when it wasn't his or her fault, and you can see how devastating these crashes can be.
]]>You told your boss what happened, and he refused to start a claim. You even went to the hospital with a coworker after it happened, because he was worried that you didn't look okay. Your boss has claimed you're unable to file for compensation, but you know better than that.
What do you do if your boss won't let your file for workers' compensation?
First, understand that if you get hurt on the job and aren't an independent contractor, you likely have a right to file a workers' compensation claim. That compensation is there to protect you in the case that you get hurt. It covers some of your financial losses as well as your medical bills and other needs.
If your boss won't allow you to file, reach out to the Department of Workers' Compensation in your area. This department can help you make a claim. You may also wish to contact your attorney to put pressure on your employer to start the claims process.
Not allowing you to make a claim is a violation of your rights as an employee. Your employer is already required to fill out a First Report of Injury document, so if he doesn't, he's violating the law.
Regardless of how your employer acts, get the treatment you need as soon as possible. Your health is more important than the claim, and it's possible to file a lawsuit or seek assistance for workers' compensation after you are seen by a doctor.
]]>