Injured workers can file a workers’ compensation claim to cover expenses, such as medical bills and lost wages. But what if your workers’ comp benefits don’t cover the full extent of your losses? In some cases, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against your employer to secure damages not covered under workers’ compensation. This article provides an overview of workers comp and personal injury claims, details the differences between the two, and explains what to do if you sustain injuries while on the job.
Were you injured at work? If you suffered a serious injury on the job, you may be entitled to financial compensation far beyond what your workers’ compensation benefits provide. Joseph Dedvukaj, a highly-regarded personal injury lawyer in Michigan, will investigate the details of your case and pursue every avenue possible to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a FREE case review.
Workers’ compensation insurance provides injured workers with much-needed compensation. Workers’ comp benefits cover an employee’s basic losses, including medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages. Should the injured worker be unable to return to work, workers’ comp will also provide temporary and/or permanent disability benefits.
Injured workers do not have to prove their employer was in any way at fault for the harm or injury they sustained to receive workers’ compensation. They simply have to file a claim and meet the necessary requirements. The downside of workers’ compensation is that the benefits often don’t fully cover the injured victim’s losses, such as compensation for pain and suffering.
In some cases, an injured worker can seek additional compensation by filing a personal injury claim against their employer or other party responsible for their accident. Compensation for other losses, such as pain and suffering, can be secured in a personal injury action should the claimant and their attorney establish negligence. Parties that are often held liable for a worker’s injuries include but are not limited to the following:
While both workers’ compensation and personal injury claims aim to compensate an injured worker for their losses, there are two key differences.
Workers’ compensation does not require an employee to prove fault in order to receive benefits. To secure compensation in a personal injury case, however, an injured worker must prove the other party was negligent. Although challenging in some cases, if he or she can prove negligence, the party will likely be liable for the injured employee’s losses.
Another key difference is that an employee is limited as to the amount and type of compensation they can receive in a workers’ compensation claim. By filing a personal injury claim, they can seek compensation beyond what is covered by workers’ compensation, giving them the opportunity to secure compensation for the full extent of the losses they incurred as a result of their work injury.
If you were seriously injured on the job, it is important to explore all of your options. The best way to learn your rights as an injured employee and what options are available to you in seeking compensation for your injuries is to speak with a Detroit personal injury attorney.
An experienced attorney will not only investigate your work-related injury or illness but will also ensure you receive the medical care you need to heal from your injuries. If your attorney finds that the harm you suffered was a result of negligence, they will assist you in securing compensation in addition to what is provided by your workers’ comp benefits. Working with an attorney will ensure you receive what you deserve.
While workers’ compensation offers some financial relief following a serious work injury, the benefits may not be enough. Fortunately, in some cases, you can seek additional financial recovery by filing a personal injury claim. When exercising your right to seek compensation from a negligent party, it is best to work with an experienced attorney.
At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C., we utilize our years of experience to get you the results you need. Mr. Dedvukaj and his team have helped injured victims obtain financial recoveries totaling more than $250 million. Many attorneys are intimidated by large insurance companies and avoid taking matters to court at all costs. As a skilled and dedicated trial attorney, Joseph Dedvukaj is never afraid to stand up against any opponent and will expertly advocate on your behalf in court to get you the best results possible. Contact us today for a FREE, no-obligation case review.
