What Types of Injuries Are Common When Traveling for Business?

 Posted on December 29, 2020 in Workers' Compensation

Most Illinois companies are required to carry insurance in the event an employee is injured at work. Pursuing a workers’ compensation claim and collecting compensation related to a work injury while traveling can be a bit more complicated than if an employee suffered an injury on site or his or her normal workplace. Although many businesses have reduced employee travel this year due to COVID-19, some essential workers may still be required to travel in order to perform their job effectively. Regardless if you travel once a week or once a year for your job, if you are injured during a business trip, you may be able to file a claim to help cover expenses and lost wages related to the injury. Employers should have clear guidelines of what is expected of your time on the road, and it is also important to understand how workers’ compensation can benefit you in these types of situations.

Illinois Workers’ Compensation Laws

Under Illinois employment law, workers’ compensation benefits cover medical care needed to cure or relieve the effects of a work injury. It can also provide employees with temporary or permanent disability benefits; partial or total disability benefits; vocational training or rehabilitation; and death benefits. In case of a dispute, the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) can enforce the state’s laws related to workers’ comp and protect workers’ rights. It is also important to note that workers’ compensation benefits are not taxable.

Hazards Encountered While on the Road

For those workers who are in sales or manage a group of employees, travel is often part of the job. Depending on where the satellite offices or stores are located, a worker may have to travel a few miles or a thousand miles. In some situations, he or she may be able to drive a company car or may have to take an airplane to the destination. Getting to and from these off-site locations can present risks, including distracted, reckless, or drunk drivers. However, there may be dangers upon arriving, too. Property owners at hotels or office buildings have a duty to provide a safe environment for patrons and employees. This includes maintaining both the inside and outside of any facilities. For example, making sure uneven pavement or floorboards do not cause a tripping hazard. Likewise, replacing burnt-out lightbulbs in outdoor areas to ensure safe walkways or even hiring security guards to patrol the grounds.

Below are a few common travel accidents that can occur while on a business trip and result in minor to serious injuries:

• Slip and fall
• Car accident
• Violent crime (assault, mugging)
• Sports/recreational injury
• Food poisoning

Contact a Wheaton Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Traveling for business can be somewhat glamorous, but as with any form of travel, it can have its risks. If you or your loved one is suffering because of a work-related injury that occurred off-site, it is crucial that you seek professional legal counsel to understand your options. At The Law Offices of David W. Clark, P.C., we have more than two decades of proven experience in the practice area of workers’ compensation. A reputable DuPage County workplace injury lawyer from our team will fight for your rights to compensation so you can get on with living your life. Call us today at 630-665-5678 to schedule your free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2430

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=082003050K8

https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2000-04-14

https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/iwcc/Pages/default.aspx