Traveling for work can be rewarding, but it also comes with risks. Whether you are driving to a client meeting, staying overnight in a hotel, or attending a conference, accidents can happen when you are away from home. If you are injured on a business trip in New York, it is important to understand how the law applies to your situation and what options you have to recover compensation.
Business travel poses unique injury risks
Unlike a normal workday in the office, business travel exposes you to different environments and hazards. You may be on the road for long hours, staying in unfamiliar accommodations, or moving through large event venues. Each setting can bring its own risks, and when you are injured while performing job duties, your legal rights may differ from those in a standard workplace injury.
Types of business trip injuries
Car accidents: If you are driving to a meeting, taking a rideshare to a conference, or traveling between work sites, a collision can cause serious harm. Even as a passenger, you may have a claim against the at-fault driver or other responsible parties.
Hotel injuries: Slippery floors, poor lighting, broken furniture, or inadequate security in hotels can lead to falls, physical assaults, or other harm. Hotels have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for guests.
Conference venue accidents: Convention centers and meeting halls can present tripping hazards, unsafe stairs, or overcrowded spaces. If your injury was caused by unsafe conditions, the venue owner or event organizer may be held responsible.
Who may be liable
Depending on the circumstances, several parties could be legally responsible for your injuries. Your employer may have obligations under workers’ compensation laws if you were acting within the scope of your job. Third parties, such as negligent drivers, hotel owners, or event operators, may also be liable. In some cases, you may have both a workers’ compensation claim and a separate personal injury lawsuit.
Workers’ comp vs. personal injury claims
If you are injured on a business trip while performing work duties, workers’ compensation can provide medical coverage and partial wage replacement. However, workers’ comp does not pay for pain and suffering, and it may not fully cover your losses. If a third party was responsible for your injury, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit for additional compensation. This is why it is critical to determine whether your case involves only workers’ comp, only a personal injury claim, or both.
Steps to protect your rights
- Report the incident to your employer as soon as possible.
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Document the scene with photos, witness statements, and any relevant records.
- Contact an attorney experienced in both personal injury and workers’ compensation cases.
FAQ
Can I get workers’ comp for a business trip injury?
Yes, if the injury happened while you were performing work duties, workers’ comp should apply.
Can I sue the hotel where I was injured?
If the hotel’s negligence caused your injury, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim in addition to workers’ comp.
What if I was injured while entertaining a client?
If the activity was part of your job duties and approved by your employer, you may still have coverage under workers’ comp and possibly a third-party claim.
If you were injured on a business trip in New York, we can help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Gash & Associates, P.C. in White Plains at (914) 328-8800 to speak with an attorney today.