Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim in Addition to Workers’ Compensation?

Jun 17,2018

Workplace injuries are an unfortunately common occurrence in the U.S. In 2016, nearly 3 million people suffered a nonfatal injury while working. Common injuries include slip and falls, auto accidents, and machinery-related accidents.

Fortunately, workers’ compensation laws ensure workers receive compensation for injuries suffered on the job. There are limits to the damages a worker can recover, though, and in some cases a worker might be able to pursue a personal injury claim in addition to workers’ compensation.

Remember, workers’ compensation protects employers from lawsuits by their employees, and provides coverage for employees in the event of a workplace injury. It does not cover other parties who might be liable or partly liable for a worker’s injury. These parties could include a device manufacturer, a property owner, or another third party.

Some examples of incidents in which third parties might be liable for a worker’s injury are:

A worker slips and falls down a defective staircase. The property owner knew there was a problem with the staircase, but failed to have the problem addressed.
A worker is injured in a car accident while on the job. The worker may be able to file for workers comp, and also make a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
A worker suffers an injury due to defective machinery. The worker may be able to file a claim against the manufacturer of the device for an injury caused by a defective product.

“If you think you might have a third party claim in addition to workers’ comp, make sure you discuss your case with a personal injury attorney,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.