Workplace injuries can be the result of many different types of incidents. Many injured employees are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Regardless of personal contributions to an incident, injured professionals can potentially qualify for medical and disability benefits.
However, there are also scenarios in which an outside party is clearly at fault for an employee’s injuries. In those scenarios, the injured professional may theoretically have the option of filing a personal injury lawsuit. Litigation brought against an outside party can theoretically help people offset the financial implications of an on-the-job injury. The three scenarios below are common situations in which a third-party lawsuit might be possible.
1. An on-the-job collision
Car crashes are one of the most common causes of catastrophic employment injuries and premature worker mortality. Some people drive daily for their jobs. They may even operate company fleet vehicles. Others only drive occasionally and may need to perform work functions in their personal vehicles. If the other driver was at fault for the crash, then the injured professional may be able to file an insurance claim or a lawsuit.
2. Violent incidents
Sometimes, disputes between co-workers escalate, and one professional end up becoming violent toward another. Other times, workers may get hurt by members of the general public. From teachers punched by unruly teenagers to health care professionals kicked by patients going through withdrawal, there are countless scenarios in which workplace violence could leave a professional injured. The violent individual may potentially be liable for their actions.
3. Product defects
Workers may need to use power tools, heavy machinery and a variety of other equipment to perform their jobs. They rely on those tools to reduce the labor involved in their job functions. Unfortunately, defective tools and products make it to market frequently. They may fail while in use at a job site, with major consequences for the employee using the tool and others nearby. If there is proof that an incident occurred due to a defective product, workers may be able to take action against manufacturers for releasing unsafe products.
Looking into every option for financial support after an on-the-job incident can help injured professionals. Third-party lawsuits can be a viable option in scenarios where outside parties are to blame for serious work injuries.