Assisting Truck Drivers with Workers' Compensation Claims
At Gomez-Garcia Law, Inc., we represent the hard-working truck drivers of California's Central Valley. We provide skillful legal representation for big-rig drivers in Bakersfield who have been injured on the job and suffered personal or financial losses as a result. If you have been hurt while driving, loading a truck, or otherwise fulfilling your work-related duties, we may be able to help you recover fair compensation.
Contact us online or call (888) 487-8133 today to speak to a truck driver workers' compensation attorney in Bakersfield.
Truck Drivers' Rights to Workers' Compensation Benefits
As a driver of a tractor-trailer, you are responsible for loading, unloading, inspecting, cleaning, and (of course) driving cargo for long distances. Years of working as a truck driver can lead to a variety of injuries, including:
- Serious falls: Whether you slip in a puddle of liquid or fall off a ladder while loading or unloading goods, falls of any kind can spell disaster for drivers, and they can lead to severe injuries of the head, neck, back, and joints.
- Musculoskeletal disorders: Sitting for long periods of time, performing repeated motions, and moving heavy objects can lead to musculoskeletal issues, such as tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Neck, back, and shoulder injuries: Truck accidents can cause serious injuries like whiplash and back strain, but truck drivers' daily duties can also cause harm to the neck, back, and shoulder, afflicting many drivers with rotator cuff damage,
Truck drivers can also sustain a variety of physical injuries when struck by machinery or truck parts, such as trailer hitches, pallet jacks, winch bars, or lift gates. Forklift accidents are also common, and forklift misuse or malfunction could seriously harm drivers during the loading and unloading processes.
Securing Compensation in Workers' Comp Cases
As an employee, you have the right to recover fair compensation for your injuries if you were hurt while performing job-related duties. (This compensation is provided by your employer's workers' compensation insurance provider.) You also have the freedom to file a personal injury lawsuit if your injuries were the result of negligence by a fellow driver or other third party. If you have been permanently disabled by your injury or are likely to be out of work for a long period of time, you may also be able to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.
At Gomez-Garcia Law, Inc., we know your rights and are prepared to protect them. Send us a message to schedule your consultation.