Commercial truck drivers are in one of the most dangerous professions around. Of course, they face the risk of being involved in a serious accident during long hours on the road — particularly here in Illinois where winter often brings treacherous road conditions. However, even when everything goes smoothly on their trip, the demands of the job make them prone to a wide variety of injuries.
Truckers suffer more nonfatal injuries than people in any other profession. It’s no wonder they have a higher rate of workers’ compensation claims than people in most other lines of work.
Many trucker injuries result from the heavy lifting required of them as they load and unload goods from their trucks. Connecting and disconnecting trailers and opening shipping containers can also be dangerous tasks.
Half of truckers’ nonfatal injuries involve serious strains and sprains that include injuries to tendons, muscles and nerves. Other common injuries involve:
- Overexertion
- Being hit by an object
- Falls
- Repetitive movements
- Improper or tight gripping
- Awkward postures
Many of these are a function of being cooped up in a small area for hours in their trucks. The fact that truck drivers often don’t get enough exercise and have unhealthy diets doesn’t help.
If you make your living as a truck driver, an injury can leave you unable to work for an extended period. It’s not like you can work from home while you heal. That’s why it’s essential to get the workers’ compensation benefits you’re entitled to.
These can help you and your family get by while you recuperate. They can also help you if you are unable to return to your job due to a disabling injury. If you’re having trouble getting the benefits to which you’re entitled, it may be wise to seek legal guidance.
