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Truck drivers beware: on-the-job injuries are common

As a truck driver, you spend the majority of your day either behind the wheel or loading and unloading cargo. For the most part, this is an unavoidable consequence of your profession. But, it also puts you at risk of getting hurt.

Even if you put the risk of a crash aside, truckers still face a high likelihood of suffering an on-the-job injury. Here are some things you need to know about common injuries, how to prevent them and what to do if you end up injured.

Common truck driver injuries

Back pain seems to be the most commonly reported trucker injury. The injury could be acute, or it could develop over time from repetitive strain and stress. Other common injuries also include falls, injuries from falling objects and muscle sprains.

Some injuries result from the strain of sitting in one position for an extended period of time. Others may occur doing loading and unloading. Sleeping in the bunk can also cause muscle injuries, especially in cramped conditions.

How injuries can be prevented

Not every injury can be prevented. However, there are some steps that truckers can take to make injuries less likely. Consider the following:

What to do if you get hurt

If you have suffered a work-related injury, you have a right to medical care and compensation for lost wages. You can get these by seeking workers’ compensation benefits. Every employer has to have workers’ compensation coverage for their employees.

The first step is to report the injury to your supervisor. Your employer will then tell you what process you need to follow. If your employer does not treat you fairly, or if the insurance company cuts off benefits before you are healed, consider talking to a workers’ compensation attorney for help.