Recovery Options for Sales Reps Injured on the Job
For many sales representatives, driving is a major part of the job. This could be due to meeting clients, attending events, or making deliveries. Unfortunately, time on the road also means an increased risk of car accidents.
When a sales rep is injured in a collision while performing work duties, the path to compensation can be complex. Multiple recovery options may be available, but so are potential hurdles. Working with a Bucks County personal injury attorney can help streamline the process and maximize recovery.
Workers’ Compensation and Third-Party Liability
If the accident occurred while the sales rep was actively working, not just commuting, workers’ compensation is often the first source of relief. Workers’ comp can cover medical expenses related to the injury, lost wages due to missed work, and ongoing care or rehabilitation. In accidents involving permanent disability further recovery could be in reach.
In workers’ comp cases, sales reps may face pushback from employers or insurance companies about whether they were truly on the job at the time of the crash. Disputes may arise if the employer claims the rep was on a personal errand or off the clock. A lawyer can help clarify the timeline, gather documentation, and establish the injury as work-related.
Beyond workers’ comp, injured sales reps may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the driver who caused the accident. This third-party lawsuit can help recover damages that workers’ comp doesn’t cover, such as emotional distress, loss of quality of life, and full wage replacement beyond workers’ comp limits.
Pennsylvania is a no-fault state, but serious injuries may meet the threshold required to step outside the no-fault system. Proving negligence and the extent of injuries becomes critical in these cases.
Insurance Hurdles and How an Attorney Can Help
Navigating insurance policies is another major challenge. A sales rep may have to deal with:
- The employer’s commercial auto policy
- Their own personal auto insurance
- The at-fault driver’s liability insurance
- Health insurance (for bills not covered by other means)
Coordinating these sources of coverage requires legal skill, especially when insurers try to delay or deny valid claims. A lawyer can step in to manage communications, ensure deadlines are met, and prevent the rep from saying something that could hurt their case.
From establishing the work-related nature of the crash to negotiating with multiple insurance carriers, a seasoned attorney provides invaluable support. A legal professional can assist in gathering evidence and ensuring the injured party accesses all available benefits.
Sales representatives injured in car crashes while working deserve full compensation, but getting there isn’t always easy. A dedicated Bucks County personal injury attorney can fight for your rights and help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Were you traveling for work when you were hurt in a vehicular accident? Insurance companies and employers may minimize or challenge claims, and the rules surrounding workers’ comp and third-party liability can be confusing. Thankfully, the talented attorneys at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. are available to fight for your rights and connect you with a full and fair settlement. Call 215-515-2604 to schedule a confidential consultation.
