Types of Work Injury Cases or Incidents: Understanding Your Legal Options
Work-related injuries can occur in various industries, and knowing your legal rights is crucial to securing fair compensation. Depending on the circumstances, you may have more than one option for pursuing financial recovery beyond your employer’s insurance. Below are common types of work injury cases and how you may be entitled to compensation:
Common Work Injury Cases
🔹 Non-Subscriber Claims – In states like Texas, some employers opt out of traditional workers’ compensation, leaving employees to pursue personal injury claims for their damages.
🔹 Third-Party Claims – When a party other than your employer, such as a contractor, manufacturer, or property owner, is responsible for your injury, you may file a lawsuit against them for additional compensation.
🔹 Construction Site Injuries – Construction workers face high-risk conditions, including falls, heavy machinery accidents, and electrocutions. In some cases, general contractors, equipment manufacturers, or negligent subcontractors may be liable.
🔹 Railroad Accidents – Covered under The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA), railroad workers injured on the job can pursue compensation beyond standard workers’ comp if employer negligence played a role.
🔹 Maritime Injuries (The Jones Act) – Seamen and offshore workers who suffer injuries due to unsafe working conditions or negligence may file claims under The Jones Act, allowing them to seek compensation directly from their employer.
🔹 Occupational Exposure – Workers exposed to toxic chemicals, hazardous materials, or dangerous work conditions may develop chronic illnesses, requiring legal action against employers, product manufacturers, or property owners.
Why Third-Party Claims Are Often Overlooked
Many employees assume their employer’s insurance will cover all medical expenses and lost wages. However, workers’ comp policies often have limitations, leaving workers without full compensation for long-term medical treatment, pain and suffering, or permanent disabilities.
A third-party claim can provide additional compensation when:
✅ Faulty Equipment or Machinery – If your injury was caused by defective tools, machinery, or safety equipment, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
✅ Negligent Contractors or Property Owners – If a contractor, supplier, or property owner failed to maintain a safe workplace, they may be held liable.
✅ Work-Related Vehicle Accidents – If your injury resulted from a car or truck accident while on the job, you may be able to sue the at-fault driver or their employer.
Don’t Settle for Less – Explore All Legal Avenues
If you were injured at work and believe a third party or defective equipment may be responsible, you may be entitled to more than just workers’ comp benefits. Even if you are currently receiving medical coverage and wage benefits from your employer’s insurance, you may still have the right to file a third-party claim for full compensation.
📞 Contact Houston Work Injury Lawyer Hector L. Sandoval at (346) 347-7777 today to explore all possible avenues for compensation. Don’t leave money on the table—get the justice you deserve!