If you believe that someone other than your employer or a co-worker caused or contributed to your injury, you must notify our office immediately.
Workers’ compensation covers injuries that happen at work, but it does not prevent you from pursuing a separate third-party personal injury claim when an outside person or company is responsible. Common examples include injuries caused by: negligent drivers; subcontractors; equipment manufacturers; property owners; or other non-employees.
Third-party claims are extremely important because they can allow you to recover additional compensation that is not available in workers’ compensation, including pain and suffering, full wage loss, and other damages. These claims also have strict deadlines and evidence can be lost quickly if the issue is not identified early.
Even if you are unsure whether another party may be responsible, it is better to raise the issue right away. Failing to report a potential third-party claim early can permanently limit or eliminate your ability to recover additional compensation.
To contact our law firm or to set up a free initial consultation, please call our Mission Hills, California, office by calling 818-830-1910.
