If a third party was involved in your workplace accident, you can file a negligence claim against them and recover compensation for your injuries. For context, the third party refers to anyone besides your employer or employees. This can occur in various situations.
For example, if defective machinery caused or contributed to your workplace injury, you may have a claim against the manufacturer. Similarly, you may have a valid third-party liability claim if you suffered work-related injuries caused by a contractor’s negligence on a job site or a negligent driver who caused a crash.
Important aspects of a third-party liability claim
To hold a third party liable for your injuries, you must prove their negligence directly contributed to your accident. It requires showing that the third party owed you a duty of care whose breach led to your injuries. Your level of fault is also a crucial consideration in such claims, as it could affect your recoverable compensation.
A third-party liability claim allows you to recover more substantial compensation, which is particularly important if your injuries are severe or lead to long-term consequences. You may be entitled to damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress and other damages that workers’ compensation may not address.
It’s also worth noting that you can take legal action against the negligent third party alongside filing a workers’ compensation claim. Doing so may be in your best interests as it could provide quicker benefits. Negligence claims often take more time to resolve than worker’s compensation claims due to the complexities involved in proving fault and negotiating settlements.
Do not overlook legal guidance
Third-party liability claims can be legally complicated, and you risk missing out on the compensation you deserve if you are not careful. Seeking qualified assistance can help you understand your legal rights and options for maximizing your potential recovery while representing your interests.