When Someone Else – Not Your Employer – Caused Your Workplace Injury
Under New York’s workers’ compensation system, eligible workers qualify for benefits regardless of who caused an injury. Whether you or your employer is mostly at fault, you may be able to collect benefits for your lost wages, medical bills and other expenses. But what happens when there are more parties involved?
Third Parties In Work Injury Claims
Typically, the two main sides in a workers’ compensation claim are the injured worker and the employer. However, workplace injuries are not always so straightforward. Often, multiple factors contribute to an accident or injury.
In workers’ compensation, a “third party” is any person or entity that is not your employer. Third parties that contribute to workplace injuries may include:
- Manufacturers of tools, equipment or chemicals
- Technicians who install a dangerous elevator or other hazards
- Electric companies that fail to secure dangerous equipment
- Subcontractors and other workers who do not work for your employer
- Landowners and property developers
- Motorists who cause accidents on or near work sites
There are many other scenarios in which a third party can play a role. To discuss the specifics of your case with a highly experienced workplace accident attorney, we encourage you to contact us and arrange a free consultation.
What Are My Options?
If a negligent third party played a role in your workplace injury, you may still be able to collect workers’ compensation benefits. However, you may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible third party.
This can result in additional compensation for your expenses — but it can also have costly implications. It is important to handle these cases carefully as one can directly affect the other. It is wise to work with an attorney who has experience coordinating workers’ compensation claims with personal injury lawsuits. The lawyers at The Klein Law Group, P.C., have worked with some of New York City’s top personal injury attorneys to ensure our clients get the maximum compensation available.
Talk To A Lawyer Today. Call For A Free Consultation.
The attorneys at The Klein Law Group, P.C., are ready to answer your questions about compensation after a work injury. To learn how we can help you pursue justice and get back on your feet after a workplace injury, please get in touch with us at 917-639-5350.