While you’re not on the clock, commuting is part of the job. But in the event of a car accident on your way to or from work, you may be wondering if your injuries are covered by workers’ compensation?
Unfortunately, the coming-and-going rule means workers cannot obtain workers’ comp benefits if they suffer an injury during their commute. This type of injury is not eligible because commuting is generally not part of an employee’s work duties.
However, there are several exceptions to the rule, such as the following:
- You were on a “special mission” – While it might seem like a task for James Bond, a special mission simply means performing a task on behalf of your employer off the clock or outside normal work hours. Common examples including grabbing coffee in the morning for the office or taking your boss’s clothes to the cleaners when you leave for the evening. If an injury occurs while you’re on a special mission, you are eligible for workers’ comp benefits.
- You were on a business trip – Work-related travel is covered by workers’ compensation, even if you are not working at the time accident occurred.
- You are a traveling employee – This type of worker is required to travel on behalf of their employer. Common types of traveling employees include flight attendants, salespersons, and plumbers.
- You were driving a company vehicle – If the employer owns the car you are driving, you may be eligible for workers’ comp benefits. However, coverage may only apply to accidents that occur when the worker is in route to a fixed location.
- You are still at the workplace – Parking lots, sidewalks, and grassy areas are part of the employer’s premises. If you get injured while entering or exiting the workplace parking lot, your injuries could be covered by workers’ compensation.
If you have suffered an injury while performing work duties in Chicago, contact Leonard Law Group at (312) 487-2513 and request a free consultation today.