Common Workplace Injuries for Delivery Drivers
Delivery drivers have a very important job. They ensure goods reach their destinations promptly. Every day, the streets are filled with delivery drivers, ensuring recipients get their packages on time. A delivery driver’s job might look easy, but this job comes with various risks. Delivery drivers are exposed to numerous hazards that can result in injuries. Understanding the common injuries that delivery drivers can suffer on the job can help drivers and employers take preventative measures, ensuring a safer working environment.
Below are some of the common workplace injuries for delivery drivers.
- Musculoskeletal Injuries
One of the most common work-related injuries among delivery drivers is musculoskeletal injuries. These are injuries to the muscles, nerves, bones, and other systems. Musculoskeletal injuries are caused by, among other things, repetitive operation, long-term stress, poor posture, and heavy lifting. For example, delivery drivers often lift heavy packages, which can strain the back, shoulders, and arms. Improper lifting techniques increase the risk of injury. Examples of musculoskeletal injuries that delivery drivers can suffer include carpal tunnel syndrome, epicondylitis, tendinitis, muscle strains, and back injuries.
- Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries
Because delivery drivers are often on the road, they are at a significant risk of motor vehicle accidents. Motor vehicle accidents can be caused by numerous factors, including adverse weather conditions, distractions, speeding, and fatigue. Some of the injuries that delivery drivers suffer in motor vehicle accidents include whiplash, broken bones, spinal injuries, and head injuries.
- Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries
Delivery drivers are quite prone to slip, trip, and fall accidents. These accidents often lead to injuries that range from minor bruises to severe fractures or head trauma. Uneven surfaces, such as potholes, cracked pavement, or loose gravel, can easily cause a delivery driver to slip, trip, and fall. Obstacles left in walkways can cause slip, trip, and fall accidents. Other common causes of slip, trip, and fall accidents among delivery drivers include wet or slippery conditions, inadequate lighting, and carrying heavy or bulky items.
- Stress and Fatigue
Tight deadlines, long hours, and high-demand periods like the holiday season can cause significant stress and fatigue for delivery drivers. The need to meet expectations and navigate challenging conditions can overwhelm delivery drivers, affecting their well-being. These pressures can lead to insomnia, headaches, and more serious psychological and emotional issues like anxiety and depression. It is crucial for delivery drivers to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed.
- Dog Bites
Delivery drivers who deliver packages to residential areas are at a significant risk of suffering dog bites. Some dogs do not like strangers on their property, even if that stranger is a delivery driver delivering a parcel. A dog might perceive a delivery driver as a threat to their home. They may become aggressive and even bite. If bitten, a delivery driver can suffer a range of injuries, including puncture wounds, lacerations, and infections.
After a work-related injury, delivery drivers can file a workers’ compensation claim and seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. To ensure eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits, workers should notify their employer promptly, seek prompt medical attention, and document the injury.
Contact a Vermont Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you’re injured while performing your job duties, it is crucial that you consult with a workers’ compensation attorney. After notifying your employer about your injury and seeking medical attention, contact our skilled Vermont workers’ compensation attorney at Sluka Law PLC for legal help.
Source:
sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/musculoskeletal-injury
