Workplace Injuries and Third-Party Liability: What You Need to Know
When you’re injured on the job, workers’ compensation is often the first source of financial support. However, in many cases, someone other than your employer may also be responsible for your injury. This is known as third-party liability, and pursuing a claim against a third party could provide additional compensation beyond what workers’ comp covers. At Conley Griggs Partin LLP in Atlanta, GA, we help injured workers understand and maximize their legal options.
What Is Third-Party Liability?
In a typical workers’ compensation case, you cannot sue your employer, even if negligence contributed to your injury. Workers’ comp is a no-fault system designed to cover basic medical expenses and partial lost wages.
However, if another individual or company, outside of your employer, caused or contributed to your accident, you may have grounds for a third-party personal injury claim. This allows you to seek damages for losses that workers’ comp does not cover, such as pain and suffering, full lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and more.
Common Examples of Third-Party Liability
Third-party liability claims can arise in many types of workplace injury cases. Some common examples include:
- Vehicle Accidents: If you are injured in a car accident while driving for work, the at-fault driver could be liable.
- Defective Equipment: If machinery, tools, or safety gear fails due to defects, the manufacturer may be held responsible.
- Contractor Negligence: On construction sites, subcontractors or vendors who create unsafe conditions may be liable.
- Property Hazards: If you are injured on property maintained by a third party, such as a building owner, you may have a claim.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), over 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries were reported by private industry employers in 2022. Many of these injuries involved third parties, meaning countless workers could be entitled to more compensation than they realize.
Why Third-Party Claims Matter
Workers’ compensation often falls short when it comes to covering the full impact of a serious injury. It usually only pays a portion of lost wages and does not provide compensation for pain, emotional distress, or loss of future earning potential.
Filing a third-party personal injury claim allows injured workers to pursue the full value of their damages, ensuring they receive the financial support needed for recovery and future security.
Why You Need an Experienced Attorney
Third-party liability cases are complex. They require a deep understanding of both workers’ compensation law and personal injury law. At Conley Griggs Partin LLP, our experienced attorneys thoroughly investigate workplace injury cases to uncover every possible avenue for recovery.
We work tirelessly to hold all responsible parties accountable and fight to maximize the compensation our clients receive. Whether through negotiation or trial, we are committed to delivering the best possible outcome.
Get the Help You Deserve
If you’ve been injured on the job and believe a third party may be responsible, don’t leave money on the table. Contact Conley Griggs Partin LLP in Atlanta today to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to help you explore all your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
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