The trucking industry plays a significant role in transportation and commerce but also has unique hazards. Crashes, injuries, and business disruptions can lead to hefty insurance claims, affecting individual drivers and motor carrier companies. By understanding the most frequent claims in the industry and taking proactive steps to help prevent them, fleets can enhance safety, reduce expenses, and maintain efficient operations.

Below are five of the most common workers’ comp claims in trucking. Let’s take a closer look at causes, impacts, and practical risk mitigation strategies.
 

Top 5 Workers' Comp Claims

1. Slip-and-Fall Injuries

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, slips, trips, and falls account for approximately 23% of non-fatal injuries among truck drivers.

Causes: Slippery surfaces, uneven ground, and adverse weather conditions contribute to these incidents. Additionally, climbing in and out of truck cabs and trailers increases the likelihood of falls.

Impacts: Slip-and-fall injuries can lead to medical expenses, lost workdays, and long-term health issues, affecting drivers and company operations.

Prevention Strategies:

• Opt for footwear with slip-resistant soles to enhance traction and prevent falls

• Maintain three points of contact when entering or exiting the truck.

• Regularly inspect steps and work areas, keeping them free of ice, spills, or debris.

2. Back and Musculoskeletal Injuries

Studies show that almost 50% of truck drivers have reported experiencing lower back pain at one point in their driving careers.

Causes: Heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, and improper posture can contribute to muscle strains and chronic pain.

Impacts: These injuries can result in medical claims, lost productivity, and ongoing driver discomfort.

Prevention Strategies:

• Practice proper lifting techniques and use equipment to assist with heavy loads.

• Invest in ergonomic seating and adjustable support tools.

• Encourage drivers to stretch and move regularly to reduce stiffness.

3. Vehicle Accidents and Collisions

Over 168,000 truck accidents occur annually, with 32% resulting in injury.

Causes: Distracted driving, poor road conditions, mechanical failures, and fatigue can all contribute to vehicle accidents.

Impacts: Collisions can lead to extensive property damage, legal claims, injuries, and even fatalities.

Prevention Strategies:

• Enforce policies restricting mobile device use while driving.

• Conduct regular vehicle inspections to ensure brakes, tires, and other critical components function correctly.

• Provide ongoing driver training focused on defensive driving and hazard awareness.

4. Repetitive Motion Injuries

Causes: Repeated actions like gripping the steering wheel, shifting gears, and handling cargo can lead strain muscles and joints over time.

Impacts: These repetitive motions can result in gradual injuries, causing discomfort, limited movement, and expensive medical expenses.

Prevention Strategies:

• Encourage regular breaks to stretch and give muscles a rest, helping to alleviate strain from repetitive tasks.

• Advocate for ergonomic adjustments and proper seating to reduce joint stress.

• Offer training on correct lifting methods and posture to lower the chances of injury while handling cargo.

• Introduce job rotation to diversify movements and prevent overuse of particular muscle groups.

• Provide drivers and workers with supportive equipment, such as cushioned grips or braces, to lessen strain on muscles and joints.

5. Fatigue and Drowsiness

Causes: Extended driving hours, strict schedules, and lack of rest can cause driver fatigue, which is a leading factor in trucking accidents.

Impacts: Fatigue-related accidents can lead to severe injuries, significant crashes, and costly financial consequences due to liability claims.

Prevention Strategies:

• Follow hours-of-service (HOS) guidelines to guarantee drivers receive adequate rest.

• Utilize fatigue-monitoring technology to detect early signs of drowsiness.

• Promote good sleep habits and proper nutrition to keep drivers alert on the road.

Conclusion
Understanding common trucking claims and taking preventive measures can help improve safety and reduce costly incidents. Proactive safety strategies benefit drivers and businesses by minimizing risks and ensuring smooth operations.

At Acuity Insurance, we are dedicated protecting trucking companies. Visit us at www.acuity.com to learn more about our risk management resources and tailored insurance solutions.

Sources: https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-024-20611-9