When you are injured at work, you have several options to help you recover compensation for things such as medical bills and lost wages. This is typically through your employer’s workers’ compensation benefit. However, there are situations where third party insurance claims Beaverton OR applies to ensure your settlement is fair.
Receiving Compensation for Future Disability
Being injured at work can have devastating consequences because your receiving disability depends on the severity of the injury. Often, the case is showing whether your disability will continue to exist in the future. If so, your quality of life can become compromised for a long time. The result is extensive medical expenses and not being able to work and earn a living wage.
Workers’ compensation is designed to cover your wage loss and medical bills, it might not be enough. Add to this that your injury on the job could be the fault of someone other than your employer or coworker and you have a new scenario.
Now, securing sufficient compensation involves a third party, which is different from the process for filing a workman’s comp claim.
Filing a Third-Party Liability Claim
A third-party claim is usually filed because someone else’s recklessness or negligence caused your workplace injury. Multiple situations apply to this type of claim.
Failure to provide proper safety when you work in joint employment for another employer is one scenario. For example, the second employer did not provide safety gear and you were hurt. They could be held liable.
Working at a construction site requires using multiple types of equipment and tools. The manufacturer could be liable if a tool malfunctions while you are using it.
Knowing What to Do
When the at-fault party for your injuries appears to be someone separate from your employer, you could have a valid claim to be compensated. Being able to prove your claim may take some time, but it is time well spent considering what you are enduring.
Finding an attorney that understands Oregon employment law, specifically when it comes to workplace injuries, can help you build a strong case. That way, you have a stronger chance of receiving the lost wages and medical care that you deserve.