Most people know that workers who are injured on the job are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. What many do not know is that they may be entitled to additional compensation, depending upon the circumstances of the accident. If a negligent third party caused the accident (even in part), the injured worker may pursue a personal injury claim in addition to workers’ compensation benefits.
What is a third party?
In a workers’ compensation claim, you are the first party and your employer is the second party. A third party is another person or business that is not employed by or part of the company you work for. Examples of third-party work accidents include:
- Faulty equipment: When equipment or machinery malfunctions, the party who manufactured or installed it may be at fault for the resulting injuries. Defective equipment can cause toxic exposure, fires, explosions and other work hazards.
- Vehicle accidents: If you drive as a part of your daily work routine, you are at risk of getting injured by distracted drivers, drunk drivers and other careless people on the road. While workers’ compensation can help you recover money to pay for your medical bills and lost wages, a personal injury claim opens the door to significantly more compensation while holding the dangerous driver responsible for his or her actions.
- Negligent contractors and subcontractors: Multiple parties are often involved in construction projects and other complex undertakings. If a defective scaffold or other dangerous work condition caused your injury, a third party may be to blame.
Investigating work accidents is a complex task and should be handled by an attorney who has experience handling both workers’ compensation and personal injury claims. You deserve all the compensation you can get after a work injury. By exploring the possibility of a personal injury claim, you can rest assured that you did not neglect potential sources of financial support.
