Truck Driver Workers’ Compensation in NC
North Carolina’s trucking industry is essential to our state’s economy. Every day, thousands of dedicated drivers work long hours to move goods around the state and across the country.
These critical workers face unique risks, from traffic accidents to injuries while loading cargo and repetitive strain, just to name a few examples. When truck drivers suffer work-related injuries, they need experienced legal representation to protect their rights and secure the compensation they deserve.
At Ward Black Law, we understand how challenging it can be for truckers to seek and recover workers’ compensation benefits. If you’ve been hurt on the job, our experienced attorneys are ready to analyze your situation, explain your rights, and guide you through the claims process.
Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free claim review with a truck driver workers’ compensation attorney at our law firm.
Reasons Injured Truckers Need Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
At Ward Black Law, we bring over 30 years of experience fighting for injured workers, including countless truckers who have trusted our workers’ compensation attorneys with their cases. The approach at our Christian-led law firm combines deep legal knowledge with genuine care for our clients. We’ll treat you like family because that’s who you are to us.
Our award-winning attorneys for the seriously injured stand apart due to our:
- Proven track record – We have helped thousands of injured workers secure the compensation they need, including many truck drivers facing complex claims.
- Personal attention – Our long-tenured staff and attorneys work closely with you throughout your case, helping you understand each step and get answers to all your questions.
- Advanced technology – We employ cutting-edge systems to build robust cases and maintain clear communication with our clients
- No-risk representation – We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless and until we win your case.
- Mission-driven approach – Our firm tithes 10 percent of its gross revenue and works with over 100 non-profits, so your case helps make the world better while we fight for your rights.
Like you, we believe in working hard and doing what’s right.
What Truck Drivers Need to Know About Workers’ Compensation in North Carolina
North Carolina law provides specific protections for truck drivers, setting them apart from other workers. Among the most important distinctions is that trucking companies must carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage for their drivers regardless of how many employees they have, even for independent contractors. This coverage applies to drivers operating commercial trucks licensed by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The responsibility for coverage typically falls to whoever holds the truck’s DOT number. However, if the owner-operator fails to maintain proper insurance, the motor carrier that contracted the transportation services becomes responsible for providing workers’ compensation coverage. The protection ensures that complicated business arrangements do not prevent injured drivers from accessing workers’ compensation benefits.
Common Accidents and Injuries Truck Drivers Experience
Truck drivers face numerous risks beyond traffic accidents. Common work-related injuries include:
- Back and neck injuries – From climbing in and out of tall cabs, loading cargo, and sitting for extended periods
- Shoulder injuries – Due to repetitive motions like shifting gears, securing loads, and handling heavy equipment
- Falls and slips – While entering or exiting the truck, working on loading docks, or walking on slippery surfaces
- Strains and sprains – From securing loads with chains and tarps, operating manual jacks, and other physical tasks
- Joint problems – Caused by constant vibration, repetitive motions, and long periods of sitting
- Head injuries – From accidents or being struck by falling cargo
Benefits Available for Injured Truck Drivers
Workers’ compensation claims for truck drivers can allow injured individuals to receive several types of benefits, including:
- Medical coverage – All necessary medical treatment, including emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and prescribed medications
- Lost wage benefits – Compensation for up to two-thirds of your average weekly wages (subject to a cap) while you cannot work
- Disability benefits – Additional compensation if you suffer permanent limitations that affect your ability to work
- Vocational rehabilitation – Training and support if you need to transition to different work due to your injuries
- Travel expenses – Reimbursement for mileage to medical appointments
Workers’ compensation benefits begin after you miss more than seven work days due to injury. However, you must report your injury to your employer as soon as possible to protect your rights to these benefits. Let our experienced team at Ward Black Law help you understand and secure all the benefits you deserve.
Challenges Truck Drivers Face in Workers’ Compensation Claims
Truck drivers often encounter unique obstacles when seeking workers’ compensation benefits. Interstate travel can complicate claims, as injuries might occur in different states from where you’re based. Determining the responsible party can also become complex when multiple companies are involved in your employment arrangement.
Other common challenges include:
- Insurance companies questioning whether injuries occurred during work duties
- Disputes over the severity of injuries and ability to return to work
- Pressure to return to work before fully healed
- Complex paperwork requirements and strict deadlines
- Communication difficulties while recovering on the road
Potential Third-Party Personal Injury Claims for Injured Truckers
While workers’ compensation for truck drivers provides essential benefits, injured truckers may also have claims against other parties who contributed to their injuries. Examples of potentially liable non-employer third parties include:
- Other drivers who caused traffic accidents
- Loading dock operators who maintained unsafe conditions
- Equipment manufacturers who produced defective parts
- Property owners who failed to maintain safe premises at a truck stop or warehouse, for example
- Construction companies that created hazardous road conditions
These third-party claims can provide additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits, including payment for pain and suffering and coverage of the full extent of lost income and reduced earning capacity. Our experienced workplace injury attorneys will explore all options to seek maximum benefits for you.
How Our Law Firm Helps Truck Drivers Injured at Work
The team at Ward Black Law understands the challenges inherent in truck driver injury cases, and we will fight relentlessly for our clients. Our team will:
- Handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies and employers
- Help you properly document your injuries and treatment
- Meet all filing deadlines and requirements
- Identify and pursue potential third-party claims
- Fight for maximum compensation for your injuries
Our commitment to “seek justice, give generously, love lavishly” drives everything we do. We know that when truck drivers are injured, entire families can face hardship. Let us help you protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Call Ward Black Law today or fill out our online form for a free review of your truck driver workers’ compensation claim.
