Workers' compensation provides medical and wage replacement benefits to employees who are injured due to their job duties. This system doesn’t require workers to prove that their employers were negligent, but it prevents them from suing businesses for pain and suffering, loss of consortium, or other damages. However, in some situations, you may be able to take legal action against a third party. Review this guide to learn more about this process. 

What Are Third-Party Workers’ Compensation Claims?

Negligence in Workers’ Compensation Claims

Employers are generally shielded from lawsuits related to employee injuries, even if they ignored safety regulations or failed to correct dangerous conditions. However, this protection doesn’t extend to third parties who may have contributed to an employee’s injuries. These might include other employees, equipment manufacturers, or on-site vendors.

When Third Parties Might Be Liable

In many states, including California, third parties might be liable if they contributed to an employee’s damages, whether due to negligence or malice. For instance, an employee might be held financially liable for damages related to acts of violence in the workplace.

Equipment manufacturers are also responsible for ensuring their products are safe to use. If workers are injured because of defective equipment, they may be able to file a personal injury suit against the negligent manufacturer.

Damages Available in Third-Party Workers’ Compensation Suits

Standard workers’ compensation claims only cover medical care and a percentage of any lost wages. However, lawsuits against third parties allow injured employees to recover all of their damages.

Along with medical expenses and lost wages, an employee injured by a third party may be eligible for compensation for their pain and suffering, trauma, and other losses related to the incident. A third-party lawsuit can provide the resources you need while recovering and help hold negligent parties accountable.

If you’ve been injured or developed a medical condition because of your working conditions, Alves Law Office in Los Angeles, CA, will provide the guidance you need and the effective advocacy you deserve. They adhere to the highest ethical standards and will aggressively protect your rights in and out of the courtroom. To schedule a consultation, call (213) 465-9800 today. For more information on their services, visit their website.