Trucking: Owner Operator, independant contractor, additional insurance

Question
I have a very unfortunate situation I need to handle and I am hoping you would not mind helping. My brother is an owner operator and was in a serious car accident while on the job. My questions are basically where do I start? Is this considered workman's comp or occupational accident? Whats the difference? Is he required to have auto insurance through the broker and if so, do operators usually get additional insurance on their own.  I have no idea how process the medical bills and who the hospital should start billing.  If you can give all the information you have, I will greatly appreciate it.  I am in dire straits.

Answer
Gini, not knowing the specifics of your case I can respond only in generality.  You mentioned a broker so I assume he was under load when the accident happened.  If he was contracted or leased to a specific carrier their insurance may provide some coverage.  The terms of his contract will specify what the carrier provides and what the independant contractor (Owner operator) is required to carry.
In Most cases the contractor is required toi carry certain insurance coverages even if they purchase the insurance through the carrier.  In any event the best place to start is with a call to your brother's insurance agent or claims office and let them direct you.  If he purchased a workers comp policy the on-job injuries could be covered.