If you have injured yourself at work there are some very important steps you need to take in order to assert your rights. It is a common misconception that if you are injured in the workplace, the only money you can get for that injury is workers compensation. That is not true, there are exceptions. An attorney will be able to explain if you fall into one of the exceptions. Here is a very basic breakdown of other compensation you would receive from a work related injury.
Product Liability
If your injury was caused by a defective product then you can bring a products liability action against the manufacturer of the product.
Toxic Substance
If a substance was not listed correctly as toxic, or did not give proper instruction on how to handle the product, the manufacturer of that product could be liable for damages.
Intentional Conduct
If you were injured because your employer took intentional and egregious action that caused your damages, then you can sue your employer.
No Workers Compensation Insurance
If your employer does not have workers compensation insurance, you may be able to sue them for damages.
Third Party Liability
If your injury is the cause of a third party in the workplace, they may be liable for paying some or all of your damages.
While you may receive some benefits from workers compensation, it often (unfortunately) falls short of what you need or deserve. Workers compensation does not pay for pain and suffering or gives punitive damages to your employer for creating a dangerous work environment. That is why it is important that if you are injured you speak to an attorney right away so you can take the proper steps to not only put yourself in a much better position, but also help others in the future who may be injured due to poor safety enforcement and dangerous conditions.
If you have been injured at work, call us at (214) 222-4000 to schedule a free consultation.
