When you have been injured on the job, you will likely receive benefits through your employer’s worker’s compensation insurance policy. Yet there are many things worker’s compensation does not pay for, including pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and loss of lifestyle. While you can’t sue your employer directly, if there is a third party responsible for your injuries, then you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them for further damages.
Third Party Claim
The most common type of third party claim involves a car accident while on the job. If you drive for a living and get into a car accident, you may be able to collect worker’s compensation and file a lawsuit against the negligent driver. Truck drivers, delivery drivers, and even sales people can all seek to collect damages by filing a third party lawsuit.
Other types of common third party claims involve premises liability accidents. If you are on the job and working on another person’s property at the time of the accident, you may be able to file a third party claim against the homeowner or business owner. Common examples include slipping and falling on ice, broken stairs, or other uneven flooring.
Construction workers may also be eligible to file a claim if they are injured on the job. Suppose you are a carpenter working for a subcontractor that was hired by a general contractor. General contractors are responsible for providing a safe work environment for all subcontractors and laborers. If you were injured because of a safety violation, you may be able to collect worker’s compensation through your subcontractor and file a third party lawsuit against the general for violating safety laws.
Legal Advice for Third Party Personal Injury Lawsuits
Worker’s compensation issues and third party personal injury lawsuits can be complicated. As such, it is best to speak with an experienced Denver personal injury lawyer immediately after you are injured on the job. You may be able to file a third party lawsuit AND collect worker’s compensation for your injuries. Your attorney will review your accident closely to determine if there is a third party responsible in any way for your accident.
Denver Personal Injury Lawyers
The experienced Denver personal injury lawyers at Denver Trial Lawyers ® are ready to help you and our family after a devastating accident. Our attorneys have a proven track record of success and can help you get the money you need to pay all your medical bills and fully recover. Remember- if we do not recover anything for you, you don't pay.
In a free consultation, a Denver attorney at Denver Trial Lawyers ® can inform you of your rights, educate you about the legal process, and discuss how we may be able to obtain compensation for you.
