Caltrans Employee Killed in Crash
Reports reveal that a Caltrans employee died after a single-car accident. Police have concluded that Oscar Vargas, 54, a 29-year veteran of the department, lost control of his department pickup truck around 3:30 a.m. and crashed into an embankment on the Interstate.
According to Caltrans District 11 Director Laurie Berman, “This is devastating news. Oscar Vargas was a well-liked co-worker and friend to many employees in the Department. Our hearts and thoughts go out to his family.” Gov. Edmund J. Brown Jr. also released a statement saying, “Anne and I were saddened to learn of the death of Oscar Vargas, who worked day in and day out to make the roads safer for Californians. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues mourning this tragedy.” The flags at the Capitol are being flown at half-staff in Vargas’ honor.
Currently, the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team is investigating the incident.
Does Workers Compensation Cover Crashes Involving Company Vehicles?
If you have been injured on the job, your injuries are likely covered by workers’ compensation. However, many wonder if this only applies when you are actually at the work place. In some instances, workers’ compensation can extend to cover other areas, such as injuries sustained in company vehicles or while performing job duties off-site. Any work-related injury is likely covered, unless the victim acted in a negligent way to cause it. For example, if the victim was under the influence of alcohol which contributed to their injuries, they may not be covered. However, if the victim was not responsible, they will likely receive coverage from workers’ compensation.
What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?
Workers’ Compensation covers a wide range of damages, including:
- Hospital and medical expenses for diagnosing and treating your injury
- Disability payments while you are unable to work
- Payment for rehabilitation and retraining
Workers’ compensation allows you to get the help you need without having to sue your employer. In fact, accepting a workers’ compensation settlement means you cannot sue your employer. However, there are instances when workers’ compensation is not fairly applied. If you have not received the proper amount of workers’ compensation or your claim has been denied, speak with a personal injury attorney, like those at the Gilleon Law Firm, APC in San Diego. We have extensive experience helping the victims of workplace injuries and will work tirelessly to ensure you have full legal representation to get the compensation you deserve.
