Workplace injuries can actually increase during the holiday season for a variety of reasons. Especially for employees who drive vehicles as part of their job, icy weather conditions and increased drunk drivers on the roads during the holiday season can be additional hazards that may lead to injuries on the job.
While it is important to be cautious about potential workplace injuries all year long, some of these particular holiday hazards are good to keep in mind during this time of year. Here are a few specifics to consider as you focus on workplace safety this winter.
Accidents in a work vehicle
If you drive a vehicle for work, for example in a delivery service capacity or as a truck driver, your safety on the job is at risk every time you get behind the wheel. During the holidays, this risk increases if you drive in areas where inclement weather such as snow and ice can make driving conditions hazardous. Winter storms in New Jersey are notoriously dangerous for drivers, due to slick road conditions and the possibility of getting stranded on highways due to accidents.
If you sustain an injury in a crash while driving a work vehicle, you will likely need help paying for your medical treatment, especially if your injuries are severe or long-term. In addition, your injuries may cause you to miss days at work, which can mean missed wages. The law protects workers who are victims of workplace injuries, and that include injuries that occur while driving a vehicle to perform work duties.
Extra precautions during holidays
Another potential hazard for employees who drive as part of their job is that of increased drunk drivers on the roadways during the holiday season. This hazard can particularly affect employees who drive during evening or night hours as part of their job because those are the times when people are most likely to be leaving holiday parties after having had too much to drink. If another driver is negligent and causes your car accident injuries, you may also seek compensation under the law to help you pay for your medical expenses and other damages.