If you are employed as a package delivery driver for a company like UPS or FedEx, you are likely entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits if you get hurt doing your job. Injuries are fairly common in this line of work for many reasons. People who spend their days lifting packages, entering people’s property to drop items off, and driving around are far more likely to get hurt than those who mainly work at a desk. Workers’ Compensation can often cover all of your medical expenses as well as any wages you lose while you cannot work due to your injury. A Will County, IL workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand what your rights are and what benefits you might be owed after a work-related injury.
5 Most Common Ways Delivery Drivers Are Injured at Work
Some of the most common types of work-related injuries package delivery drivers suffer include:
- Back injuries – Lifting heavy packages – especially when a package is not properly labeled – can cause back strains, pulled, or even torn muscles. Some items should be labeled as a two-man lift, but they are not, leaving one driver to lift an inappropriate amount of weight alone.
- Dog bites – Entering someone’s yard to leave a package on their property can leave you vulnerable to dog bites if the owner has not secured their animals properly. Few package delivery drivers go their entire careers without encountering an aggressive dog.
- Motor vehicle accidents – Although you likely have the advantage of being in a large truck, you may still be vulnerable to injury if you are hit by another vehicle.
- Pedestrian accidents – Drivers often need to cross the street after parking their vehicle. Other drivers who are not paying attention may fail to notice a delivery person walking around, causing the delivery person to get hit by a car.
- Falling package injuries – Even if you keep your truck well-organized, there is always a possibility that a package could be shaken loose while you are driving, causing it to fall on you. Being hit by a falling package can cause serious head injuries or broken bones should it land on your hand. Packages may also be dropped on a driver’s foot while they are carrying it in.
- Tripping and falling – When you are carrying a large box to an unfamiliar residence, you are at greater risk of tripping and falling because you cannot see the ground in front of you.
If you are injured on the job, you have rights. It is important to seek medical attention and file for workers’ compensation promptly.
Contact a Plainfield, IL Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Flaherty Law, LLC is experienced in helping package delivery drivers recover workers’ compensation benefits after an on-the-job injury. Dan Flaherty, a Will County, IL workers’ compensation attorney, is passionate about helping people who have been injured while trying to do their jobs. Contact us at 815-860-5702 to start with a free consultation.