From utility line crews to tree trimming companies, aerial bucket trucks are a daily part of life in the field. But while these lifts make high-reach tasks more efficient, they also introduce significant Workers’ Comp exposure especially when employers fail to implement rigorous safety protocols.
The risk is more than just theoretical. According to the CDC and OSHA, falls from elevation continue to be one of the leading causes of serious workplace injuries and fatalities in the U.S.
The most common causes of bucket truck accidents include:
- Overloaded or unbalanced buckets, which compromise stability
- Sudden jerks or swings caused by high winds, mechanical error, or poor vehicle control
- Tip-overs from failure to stabilize the base on uneven or soft ground
- Improper PPE or no fall arrest gear, leaving workers completely exposed
Real-world consequences:
- Traumatic brain injuries from falls >10 ft
- Spinal cord injuries and permanent disability
- Electrocution when booms contact power lines
- Multiple-employee claims when two-person buckets are in use
Despite these risks, many smaller companies in arboriculture or electrical services lack formal aerial safety training—or they rely on outdated equipment with no inspection schedule.
That’s where a PEO-backed Workers’ Compensation solution makes the difference.
What a PEO brings to aerial operations:
- Assistance with securing proper WC classification codes (0401, 7538, etc.) to reduce audit risk
- Access to WC markets that understand elevated work and won’t decline or non-renew after a claim
If your client uses bucket trucks, even occasionally, they need a partner that understands their elevated risk.
We help agents find homes for their clients in high-risk industries. We provide Workers’ Compensation coverage to businesses in need, no matter the risk, and help agents find the best PEO coverage and savings for their insured. To learn how we can help you find coverage for your aerial or utility work clients, please reach out to receive a quote.
