Not all injuries are only covered by workers’ compensation, even when they happen on the job. In many cases, workers have remedies that go far beyond workers’ comp, and it’s important to explore all of them if you have suffered a serious injury. You never want to leave money on the table when it was available to you.
The first two parties in your case are you and your employer. Strict workers’ comp cases stay between the two of you. A third-party claim opens things up a bit more by alleging that someone else was responsible for your injuries and should have to cover the costs. Let’s take a look at a few examples.
Defective equipment caused the injury
While working in construction, you are given fall-protection gear. You do slip and fall on the job, and the harness breaks. It was worn properly and your employer gave you protection equipment that should have prevented a serious injury, but the harness was designed with an inherent defect or manufactured in a way that made it unsafe. You may want to seek compensation from that company.
A car accident while on the clock
Your boss sends you from the job site to the warehouse for more materials. On the way, a texting driver crosses the center line and hits your car. You were technically on the clock, but your injuries were clearly caused by that negligent driver, not by your line of work. You may consider pursuing compensation from the driver.
You’re injured on someone else’s property
You arrive on someone’s property to do a renovation. The existing property has been poorly maintained and the owner does not alert you to the risks. You’re injured while examining that property to get the job started. Again, you were on the clock, but the property owner is the one who negligently allowed you to get hurt.
Exploring all of your options
As you can see, it is very important to take the time to explore all of the options you have after an injury. Never assume workers’ comp is all that you can use. Third party claims may allow you to seek the type of compensation you need and that you deserve.