After a workplace accident, you have options regarding how to seek compensation. However, the route you take is often dependent on the situation you encountered and how the injury occurred. In some cases, you may need to file a workers’ compensation claim; in others, you may file a lawsuit against someone other than your employer.
It may be challenging to recognize your rights without speaking to a lawyer, but we aim to help you understand what comes next. At LaMarca Law Group, P.C., we are here to guide you and help you seek the compensation you deserve through the necessary process.
Below, we’ll help you understand the two ways you can pursue compensation after a workplace accident, including:
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Third-party liability lawsuits
Our team has experience in both kinds of legal action, so when you need help seeking compensation and benefits, we’ve got you covered.
Call our firm today at (515) 705-0233 to discuss your rights.
Workers’ Compensation Claims
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance coverage that many employers provide should their employees suffer an injury while performing on-the-job duties. It exists so employees can seek compensation and benefits through insurance providers instead of suing the employer. However, you should know some crucial aspects regarding workers’ comp claims.
What Does Workers’ Comp Cover?
You can use your workers’ compensation benefits to cover costs associated with:
- Medical care
- Ongoing treatment
- Lost income
- Death benefits
- Disability benefits
- Travel expenses
Workers’ comp is a valuable way to obtain compensation for work-related illnesses, repetitive injuries, and other damages you may sustain in a workplace accident. For injuries that last a short time, temporary benefits may be available. For long-term injuries, permanent benefits may be better.
In any case, it’s crucial to get a lawyer on your side. An attorney can help you determine if you qualify to recover workers’ compensation benefits and help you take the necessary steps to build a strong case.
Workers’ comp is not always available, though. You may need to seek compensation through a third-party liability lawsuit in specific circumstances.
Third-Party Liability Lawsuits
A third-party liability lawsuit comes into play when the accident involves someone outside of the company. For instance, if your injury occurs because of a defective machine. In this situation, you may be able to pursue compensation from the machine manufacturer and hold them accountable for their negligence.
Keep in mind, this type of situation can alter a case because the manufacturer may try to sue your employer for failure to maintain the machine that caused the injury.
A third-party liability lawsuit may allow you to seek compensation for:
- Medical or funeral expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Reduced quality of life
Going through any legal action can seem confusing and challenging. Working with the right legal team goes a long way in protecting your rights and helping you pursue the most favorable outcome possible. It’s never easy to deal with a workplace injury, especially if you’re dealing with financial, physical, and emotional hardships.
At LaMarca Law Group, P.C., we aim to protect your rights. We know, as a worker, you have specific needs. Obtaining compensation on your behalf for medical care and lost wages becomes our top priority as we safeguard you from insurance companies and large corporations who may try to take advantage of your rights.
Our Des Moines workers’ compensation attorneys go above and beyond to guide you through any challenging situation you encounter. Whether you are going through a workers’ comp claim or third-party liability lawsuit, we’ll do everything in our power to protect your ability to move forward and live a more comfortable life with the compensation you deserve.