Jackson Truck Driver Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Motor vehicle accidents remain a top cause of death and disability in the US, so you can imagine the implications for truck drivers who earn their living by transporting essential goods nationwide. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that there are 2,060 accidents every year involving semis, 18-wheelers, and other large commercial vehicles. Plus, in addition to the risk of deadly and injury-causing crashes, truck operators also encounter other job-related hazards that cause serious harm or occupational ailments.
At Keith B. French Law, our team is knowledgeable about the Mississippi workers’ compensation laws that pay benefits to eligible truck drivers. However, we are also skilled in pursuing other legal options if you were injured because of negligence by another motorist or other at-fault party. To learn more about your remedies, please contact us to schedule a no-cost consultation with a Jackson truck driver workers’ compensation lawyer. You might also benefit from an overview on the basics.
Mississippi Workers’ Comp Laws and Exceptions
The default rule under state law is that employees who suffer a work-related medical condition are covered by the workers’ comp system. You do not need to prove that your employer was at fault in causing your injury or illness, but you must be a covered employee who sustained harm while performing job-related tasks within the scope of employment. The caveat for this no-fault system is that workers’ comp is your sole remedy, and you cannot sue your employer in court. As a result, you are limited to workers’ comp benefits which do NOT pay amounts for pain and suffering.
One exception to the exclusive remedy rule is of particular interest to truck drivers hurt in transportation accidents. If you were injured because of negligent acts by a third party, you can pursue legal remedies in civil court.
Benefits for Injured Truck Drivers Under State Law
For truck operators who qualify to file a claim for workers’ comp, your benefits may include:
- Costs for medical treatment;
- Wage replacement for days away from work;
- A portion of your wages for total or partial disability, paid on a permanent or temporary basis; and
- Death benefits for qualifying family members.
Our Jackson truck drivers workers’ comp lawyer at Keith B. French Law is prepared to advocate on your behalf in seeking proper benefits when a claim is your sole remedy. In addition, we will fight for your rights if your case qualifies as an exception to the default rule. We will pursue a third-party for monetary damages, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other compensation available in personal injury lawsuits.
Contact a Jackson Truck Drivers Workers Comp Attorney Today
Legal options for injured truck operators can be complicated when they encompass both workers’ comp and personal injury laws, but you can rely on Keith B. French Law to handle the challenges. To set up your free case review with a member of our team, please contact our Jackson offices by calling 601-983-2667 or checking out our website.
