Workers’ Comp and Third-Party Claims

Attorney serving Ridgeland, Jackson and all of Mississippi

When an employee is injured on the job, he or she can file a workers’ compensation claim for benefits to cover the cost of medical expenses and lost wages. However, additional losses such as mental anguish, loss of life enjoyment and pain and suffering are not covered.

Additionally, workers’ compensation benefits may not be available for the full duration of your recovery.

But if a third party was responsible for causing your injury, you may be able to recover additional compensation. An experienced attorney at Tabor Law Firm, P.A. can help you navigate the process.

What you should know about third-party claims

While workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, negligence must be proven in a third-party claim. When an entity that is separate from your employer causes your injury during the scope of your employment, you may be entitled to additional compensation.

Responsible third parties can include:

The manufacturer of defective equipment or materials
The owner of a property or business an employee visits while on the job
A driver who causes a traffic accident while an employee is on the job
The cleaning or maintenance company hired by your employer if you slip and fall
Negligence of an independent contractor
An injury caused by a person unassociated with your job, such as a physical attack

Why you need an attorney in a third-party claim

When filing a third-party claim, you must prove that another entity acted in negligence or by omission to recover compensation. The third party’s breach of duty must have caused your injury. An attorney from our firm can investigate your third-party claim and gather crucial evidence needed to help you build a strong case. Additional sources of evidence, such as camera footage and eyewitness accounts can be helpful in pursuing your claim.

The negligent party’s insurance company may attempt to downplay or deny your claim. They may even try to pin the blame on you. That’s why you need an experienced attorney to protect your rights. We’ll fight to hold the negligent third party and their insurance provider accountable, so you can focus on the full extent of your recovery.