Can Truck Drivers File for Workers’ Comp Benefits After a Crash in California?

 Posted on July 31, 2025 in Workers' Compensation

Commercial truck drivers face unique risks every day on California’s highways. From long hours to hazardous road conditions, the chances of being involved in a crash while on the job run high. If you are a truck driver injured in an accident while working, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, your eligibility depends on several factors. An experienced Hollister, CA workers' compensation attorney can help you understand those factors and your rights.

California Workers’ Compensation for Commercial Truck Drivers

Under California Labor Code § 3700, any employer with one or more employees must provide workers' compensation coverage. For a truck driver, this means that if you are classified as an employee, and you are hurt in a crash while on the job, you have a legal right to file a claim. This coverage helps pay for medical treatment, lost wages, and disability benefits when an employee is injured while performing work-related duties.

Truck drivers employed by a company are generally covered, even if the accident occurred out of state. Injured truck drivers may be entitled to compensation for emergency care, ongoing treatment, temporary or permanent disability, and possibly vocational rehabilitation if they cannot return to the same work.

Why Might Truck Drivers Be Denied Workers’ Compensation in California?

Truck drivers may be denied workers’ compensation benefits for several reasons, including:

• Injury did not occur during work: If the employer claims the driver was off-duty or running a personal errand when the accident happened, the claim may be denied.

• Failure to report the injury on time: According to California Labor Code § 5400, a worker must report the injury to their employer within 30 days. Missing this deadline can result in a denial.

• Lack of medical evidence: If there is insufficient documentation to prove the injury is work-related, the claim might be rejected.

• Misconduct at the time of injury: If the driver was intoxicated, violating safety rules, or acting recklessly when the accident occurred, the employer may argue the injury was the result of misconduct.

• Dispute over employment status: Employers may claim that the driver is an independent contractor, not an employee, which could impact benefit eligibility.

In many cases, these denials can be challenged with the help of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.

Workers’ Compensation and Independent Contractors in California

Truck drivers who are considered independent contractors may not be covered by workers’ comp. However, California has strict rules about who qualifies as an independent contractor. Under California Labor Code § 2775, a worker is presumed to be an employee unless the hiring entity proves the worker is free from control, performs work outside the usual business, and is customarily engaged in an independent trade. This means many truck drivers who are labeled as contractors may still qualify for benefits if their work meets employee standards.

Misclassification is common in the trucking industry. If you were injured in a crash and your employer claims you are not eligible for benefits due to your contractor status, you need an attorney to review your work arrangement.

Contact a Hollister, CA Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

The San Benito County, CA workers’ comp lawyers at Cramer + Martinez have been serving injured workers and their families in the local community for nearly 30 years. Our current team of attorneys brings over two decades of combined experience focused on workers' compensation law. We understand how to handle denied claims, misclassification issues, and complicated workplace accidents. Contact us today at 408-848-1113 to schedule a free consultation. We can offer services to Spanish-speaking clients as well. Hablamos Español.