American truck drivers traveled nearly 280 billion miles last year, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Countless hours were spent behind the wheel, and more time on the job was dedicated to loading and unloading cargo. While the physical demands of truck driving may not be especially obvious, this work does take a toll on the body, and many drivers experienced serious work-related injuries that kept them away from the job and affected their ability to earn an income. Truck drivers who work in North Carolina and across the country have rights when they experience injury and illness caused by work conditions.
Medical care and wage replacement benefits are available through the workers’ compensation system, and attorney Bob Bollinger is here to ensure those benefits are provided to employees in need. Bob is a Board-Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law, which means he has the experience, knowledge, and education to protect the rights of injured truck drivers and their families. Call The Bollinger Law Firm today or take a moment to fill out the contact form on this page to connect with Bob and schedule a free strategy session.
Common Truck Driver Injuries and Illnesses in North Carolina
It’s natural to think of truck driving injuries associated with highway crashes or warehouse accidents. While it’s true that these are common sources of injury, they are not the only job-related risks of the profession. Time spent on the road and the physical demands of the cargo can lead to a number of serious and debilitating conditions, including:
- Back pain
- Disc herniation, disc rupture, and slipped disc
- Disc degeneration
- Neck pain
- Hernia
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Shoulder pain
- Rotator cuff tears
- Bicep tendon ruptures
- Muscle strains or tears
- Bone fractures
- Traumatic amputation
- Meniscal tears of the knee
- Internal derangement of the knee
- Joint replacement
Loading and unloading cargo is physically taxing, and the constant climbing in and out of the cab can wear down a truck driver. Even a heart attack triggered by overexertion on the job can be covered by North Carolina workers' compensation. Moving the tandem dolly around a lot to hook up a trailer can also cause serious injuries.
Medical Interventions for Injured Truck Drivers
Addressing these injuries can be difficult, and it most often requires truck drivers to be away from work to recover as fully as possible. Some of the most common treatments include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Anesthetic and epidural steroid injections
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Attendant care
- Surgery
- Pain management
- Exercise
- Rest
Improved posture and strength can help promote both prevention and recovery. Some businesses offer employees a workplace ergonomics program that can help reduce risk factors for musculoskeletal and other injuries.
Call Our Charlotte Truck Driver Injury Lawyers to Learn Your Rights
Despite best efforts at health and safety, injuries and illnesses often develop. When they do, it can be painful and stressful for both the injured truck driver and his family. The physical recovery and time away from work can cause significant personal and financial burdens.
At The Bollinger Law Firm, attorney Bob Bollinger works to help injured workers and their families relieve some of these burdens by obtaining workers’ compensation benefits. As a Board-Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law, Bob has proven himself as a dedicated and effective advocate for injured workers. He has presented more than 100 cases to the North Carolina Industrial Commission, which oversees the workers’ compensation system, and he has helped truck drivers and their families obtain the compensation they deserve.
If you or someone you love has suffered an injury on the job, you may be eligible for benefits. Even if you aren’t sure you qualify or you are worried you’ve already made mistakes in seeking compensation, Bob Bollinger and his legal team can provide effective guidance today. Call our Charlotte office or take a moment to fill out our online contact form to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we may be able to help.