Are Delivery Drivers & Truckers Covered By North Carolina’s Workers’ Compensation Laws?

Are Delivery Drivers & Truckers Covered By North Carolina’s Workers’ Compensation Laws?

Delivery drivers and truckers play an indispensable role in our economy, transporting goods and services to their destinations on time. However, as vital as these workers are, they face significant risks every day. From strenuous physical tasks to unpredictable accidents, delivery professionals encounter hazards that put their safety and well-being at risk. If you’re injured in this line of work, understanding your rights under North Carolina’s workers’ compensation laws is crucial. At Waple & Houk, PLLC, we’re here to help.

The Hazards of the Job for Delivery Drivers and Truckers

The nature of delivery work and trucking involves long hours, physical effort, and constant exposure to unpredictable situations. These factors make injuries a common occurrence. Here are some of the key risks faced by those in these professions:

Common Injuries Faced by Delivery Drivers and Truckers

• Slips and Falls. Slipping while climbing into or out of vehicles or tripping on uneven surfaces during deliveries are frequent causes of injury.  

• Overexertion and Strains. Lifting, carrying, and unloading packages can lead to musculoskeletal injuries, whether from improper lifting techniques or repetitive motions.  

• Dog Bites or Animal Attacks. Delivery personnel often encounter aggressive animals while dropping off packages, posing a significant risk of injury.  

• Traffic Accidents. Truckers spend hours on highways, making vehicle collisions a major hazard. Even delivery drivers operating smaller vehicles face similar dangers in congested urban areas.  

• Falls from Heights. Falls while unloading cargo from higher platforms, trailers, or trucks are another common cause of injury.  

These incidents may result in life-altering injuries that require medical attention, time off from work, or long-term rehabilitation. Workers often sustain injuries affecting their knees, back, or shoulders, which can require significant recovery time. 

How Delivery Drivers and Truckers Are Covered Under North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Laws

Under North Carolina law, most employees, including delivery drivers and truckers, are entitled to workers’ compensation if they sustain workplace injuries or develop occupational illnesses. Workers’ comp provides key benefits such as medical coverage, partial wage replacement, and compensation for permanent injuries.

For delivery drivers and truckers, accessing these benefits can sometimes be more complex due to the nature of their work. For instance, some truckers may operate as independent contractors, which could complicate their eligibility. However, the law does provide coverage under certain conditions, even for independent contractors, as detailed in the North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act.

Specific Statutes Addressing Truckers and Delivery Drivers

In North Carolina, §97-19.1 explicitly outlines how workers’ compensation applies to truck drivers and others in the transportation industry. This statute ensures that individuals who operate trucks, trailers, or similar vehicles, whether in an interstate or intrastate capacity, can seek compensation for injuries sustained in the course of their work, even if they are considered independent contractors in certain scenarios.

The law imposes liability on principal contractors, intermediate contractors, or subcontractors to ensure injured workers receive appropriate benefits. Whether driving a rig licensed by the Department of Transportation or handling deliveries in a local neighborhood, injured workers have legal protections meant to support their recovery.

Why Partner with Waple & Houk, PLLC?

Workers’ compensation claims can be challenging, especially with the added complexities faced by truckers and delivery drivers. At Waple & Houk, PLLC, we help injured workers protect their rights and secure the benefits they’re entitled to. From evaluating your case and handling the paperwork to negotiating with employers, we’ll manage every detail so you can focus on your recovery.

Reach Out for Help Today

If you’re a trucker or delivery driver who has been injured on the job, don’t face the challenges of a workers’ compensation claim alone. Waple & Houk, PLLC is here to provide the support and advocacy you need. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward obtaining the compensation you deserve.