As a motor trader, you buy and sell automobiles and possibly recreational vehicles, all-terrain vehicles and other motorized vehicles. Your job involves more than selling cars — you may also test drive vehicles, transport them to different locations, talk to customers and perform light mechanical work. Make sure your employer provides motor traders Workers' Compensation so you and your coworkers are protected.
What is Motor Trades Workers' Compensation?
The federal and state systems require most employers to carry Workers' Compensation for employees. This coverage helps ensure you receive medical care and partial wage replacement if you are injured on the job or develop a work-related illness.
Your Workers' Compensation policy typically pays for required medical treatment related to a workplace injury or illness, such as doctor visits, physical therapy, diagnostic tests and other procedures. It may also replace a portion of wages while you are recovering.
Additional benefits
- Safety training that helps you identify hazards and adopt safe practices
- Medical treatment plan review
- Billing review to ensure accuracy
- Vocational assistance that helps you return to work when medically cleared
Where to Buy Motor Traders Workers' Compensation
Your employer is responsible for purchasing Workers' Compensation insurance for employees. Talk to your human resources manager to confirm you have adequate motor traders coverage.
For information tailored to dealerships and repair operations, see Auto and Truck Dealers and Repair Workers Compensation for related guidance and resources.
How to File a Motor Traders Workers' Compensation Claim
If you slip on wet stairs, sprain an ankle while moving parts, or become ill from fumes, file a Workers' Compensation claim as soon as possible after the incident.
Your supervisor or HR manager will give you the official claim form to complete. The form asks for details about how, when and where the injury or illness occurred and may allow you to list witness names.
How to Claim Workers' Compensation Benefits
After your claim is approved, seek treatment from a provider authorized by your Workers' Compensation policy. If you see an unauthorized provider, you may be responsible for the cost.
Complete any prescribed treatment plans and follow your provider's return-to-work guidance or you risk losing benefits. Employers and insurers often offer programs to help injured workers return to suitable duties.
Keeping safe and learning from others
Employers in related trades often use shared safety programs and training; for example, some practices overlap with Construction Trade Workers Compensation programs that focus on hazard recognition and safe work procedures.
Next steps
Discuss the specifics of your coverage with your HR manager and keep records of any workplace incidents and medical visits. If you need personalized guidance, you can also talk to an agent about your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for Workers' Compensation for motor traders?
Your employer is generally required to purchase and maintain Workers' Compensation insurance that covers employees.
What should I do immediately after a workplace injury?
Report the injury to your supervisor or HR, seek appropriate medical care, and complete the employer's claim form as soon as possible.
Can I choose my own doctor for a workers' comp injury?
Many workers' comp plans require you to see an authorized provider; seeing an unauthorized provider can lead to out-of-pocket costs.
What happens if my employer doesn't have workers' comp?
If an employer lacks required coverage, notify your HR department and consider reporting the issue to the appropriate state workers' compensation agency.