Truck Driver Injuries

Truck driving is one of the most physically demanding and risky jobs in South Florida. Whether you're hauling freight across state lines or making local deliveries, the challenges of long hours on the road and handling heavy cargo can expose you to a variety of serious injuries. As a truck driver, it’s crucial to know your rights under Florida’s workers' compensation laws because a successful claim can connect you with much-needed medical and income-replacement benefits while you are unable to work. The Miami workers’ compensation attorneys at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada have extensive experience handling workers’ compensation claims involving truck driver injuries, and we know what it takes to ensure your claim is given the attention and respect it deserves.

Truck drivers face a wide range of hazards during their shifts, many of which go beyond just being behind the wheel. For example, the job often involves loading and unloading heavy goods, driving for long periods, and navigating difficult road conditions, all of which present unique hazards. Below are a few of the most common causes of trucker injuries:

Traffic Accidents

The most obvious risk for truck drivers is being involved in a truck accident. Whether it’s due to inclement weather, distracted driving, or the actions of other drivers, accidents can lead to severe injuries or even death.

Loading and Unloading Injuries

Many truck drivers are required to assist in loading and unloading cargo. This involves lifting heavy items, which can lead to back injuries, sprains, and strains.

Repetitive Motion Injuries

The repetitive nature of handling equipment and sitting in a truck for hours at a time can lead to long-term injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or chronic back pain.

Slips and Falls

Truck drivers are often working in slippery or unstable environments. Whether it's getting in and out of the cab, walking on wet pavement, or stepping onto uneven surfaces, falls are a common cause of injuries for truckers.

Exposure to Hazardous Materials

If you're transporting hazardous materials, you may be exposed to toxic chemicals or substances that can lead to respiratory issues or chemical burns.

Driving a truck for a living is physically demanding, and trucks face numerous risks on a daily basis. Some of the most common trucker injuries involve one or more of the following:

Musculoskeletal Injuries

Long hours of sitting in the same position can lead to chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain. Repeated lifting or awkward movements can also strain muscles and ligaments.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Truck accidents often result in broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, or ribs. These injuries can take months to heal and might require extensive rehabilitation.

Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

In serious accidents, truck drivers are at risk of hitting their heads, which can lead to concussions or more severe brain injuries that affect memory, cognitive function, and overall quality of life.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the spine in an accident or from repeated stress on the body can cause lasting pain, limited mobility, or, in severe cases, paralysis.

Cuts and Lacerations

Broken glass, sharp metal, or debris from accidents can cause deep cuts, which may require stitches or surgery to repair and can still leave permanent pain and scarring.

One of the most critical legal issues truck drivers face when injured on the job is their classification as either an employee or an independent contractor. This distinction is important because it determines whether you are eligible for workers' compensation benefits.

Employee Status

If you're classified as an employee, you are covered under Florida’s workers' compensation laws. This means that if you're injured on the job, your medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs should be covered. It doesn’t matter who was at fault for the injury, and you have the right to file a claim to receive benefits.

Independent Contractor Status

If you’re an independent contractor, the situation is more complicated. Many trucking companies classify their drivers as independent contractors to avoid having to provide workers' compensation coverage. Unfortunately, this leaves many drivers without the safety net they need when injured. However, just because you’ve been labeled an independent contractor doesn’t necessarily mean the classification is accurate. Courts often look at how much control the company has over your work to determine your true employment status. If you’re treated like an employee—such as being told when and how to work—you may still be entitled to workers' compensation, even if your employer tries to argue otherwise. Our firm has prevailed on this issue before.

A workplace injury that prevents you from working can have a tremendous impact on your physical and mental well-being, as well as your finances. So, if you were recently injured while driving a truck, it is important to take a few minutes to fully understand your options. At the Miami workers’ compensation law firm of Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we have over 45 years of hands-on experience helping injured truck drivers obtain the workers’ compensation benefits they need and deserve following a workplace accident. We also offer free consultations and do not get paid unless and until we have secured your financial recovery. To learn more and schedule your free consultation, call us at 305-448-8585 or reach out through our secure online contact form.