When Injuries Occur During Commuting: Are They Covered?
When Injuries Occur During Commuting: Are They Covered?
Commuting is part of daily life for many Missouri workers, but accidents that happen on the way to or from work raise an important legal question: are these injuries covered by workers’ compensation? While workers’ compensation provides benefits for employees injured on the job, injuries that occur during commuting are generally treated differently under Missouri law.
The "Coming and Going" Rule
Missouri follows the “coming and going” rule, which means that injuries sustained while traveling to or from work are usually not covered by workers’ compensation. The reasoning is that employees are not yet considered to be in the course of employment while commuting.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are important exceptions that may allow coverage in certain commuting situations:
- Employer Transportation: If your employer provides transportation to and from work, injuries may be covered.
- Work-Related Errands: If you are asked to pick up supplies, deliver items, or complete another task during your commute, any injury could fall under workers’ compensation.
- Jobsite Travel: Employees who travel between job sites during the workday are often covered, even if the travel involves using personal vehicles.
- Special Circumstances: In some cases, if your job requires regular travel as part of your duties, commuting-related injuries may be considered part of employment.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Because commuting injury cases can be complex, many employees are unsure whether they qualify for benefits. Insurance companies may deny claims quickly, leaving workers responsible for medical bills and lost wages. Having a lawyer review your situation can make the difference in determining whether your injury falls under an exception to the rule.
At T.K. Thompson & Associates, we help Missouri workers understand their rights when injuries occur. If you were injured during your commute, don’t assume you are not entitled to benefits—your case may qualify under one of the exceptions.
