When Truck Drivers Are Injured On the Job

It’s no secret that truck driving is a dangerous profession. In fact, truck driving routinely ranks in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ top ten most dangerous occupations. In 2009, the fatality rate for truck drivers was 18.3 for every 100,000 drivers, making it the ninth most dangerous occupation in the U.S. That same year, more truck drivers died than any other profession – there were 586 total trucker fatalities.

While the numbers of professional truck driver fatalities are down from previous years (in 2004, the fatality rate was 48.2 per 100,000 workers), truck drivers still take significant risks every time they report for duty. Not only do truck drivers face a high risk of injury caused by truck accidents; they also face potential shoulder injuries, back injuries and neck injuries from loading trucks and other on-the-job demands. There are also significant time and performance pressures on truck drivers, which can cause illness.

If you are a truck driver who has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident or another workplace accident, do not hesitate to contact an experienced Massachusetts truck accident lawyer to discuss your options. Depending on the facts of your case, you may have more than one legal claim to pursue, such as:

• A workers’ compensation claim against your employer for your on-the-job injury
• A third party liability claim (personal injury claim) against another driver who caused your truck accident
• A Social Security disability claim if you will be unable to work for more than a year because of your disability
• A claim against the manufacturer of defective truck parts

Often, commercial truck drivers face public scrutiny when they are involved in a semi truck accident. Yet, most truck drivers do all they can to prevent accidents from occurring. An attorney experienced in injury law can help protect your reputation while you take the steps you need to heal.

Source: The Most Dangerous Jobs in America (New York Times)