Getting seriously hurt at work can change your life in an instant. One moment you’re doing your job, and the next, you are dealing with pain, hospital visits, and stress. Many people aren’t sure what to do next or who to turn to.
That is why it is so important to understand your rights. If you have been hurt on the job, workers’ compensation lawyers at DiMarco | Araujo | Montevideo can help guide you through your legal options. When you’re injured at work, you might not realize that there is more than one way to get help. Most people know about workers’ compensation, but that’s not your only option, especially if someone else caused your injury.
Workers’ Compensation: The First Step
Workers’ compensation is a system that helps employees who get hurt on the job. It usually pays for:
- Medical care.
- Lost wages.
- Temporary or permanent disability.
- Rehabilitation costs.
You don’t need to prove that your employer did anything wrong. Even if the accident was partly your fault, you can still get benefits. But you must report your injury right away and follow the rules for filing a claim.
Workers’ compensation is helpful, but it does have limits. It usually doesn’t cover pain and suffering. It also may not replace all of your lost income. That’s why some people look into other legal options, too.
When You Can Sue Outside of Workers’ Compensation
In most cases, you can’t sue your employer if you get workers’ compensation. But there are some exceptions. You may be able to file a lawsuit if:
- A third party (not your employer) caused your injury.
- Your employer was grossly negligent.
- You were hurt by a defective product or a toxic substance.
For example, if a machine malfunctioned and caused your injury, the company that made the machine might be held responsible. If you were hit by a driver while working, you could sue that driver. These kinds of lawsuits are called third-party claims, and they can offer more compensation than workers’ comp alone.
What a Lawyer Can Do for You
After a serious injury, it’s hard to deal with paperwork, deadlines, and insurance companies on your own. A lawyer can:
- Help you file your workers’ compensation claim.
- Make sure you get all the benefits you deserve.
- Investigate your case to see if a third-party claim is possible.
- Handle all communication with insurance companies.
- Represent you in court if needed.
Don’t Wait Too Long
Every state has time limits, called statutes of limitations, for filing claims. If you miss these deadlines, you could lose your right to benefits or compensation. That’s why it’s important to take action as soon as possible.
Also, the sooner you get help, the easier it is to gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and build a strong case.
Key Takeaways
- Workers’ compensation covers medical bills and lost wages, but not pain and suffering.
- You may be able to sue a third party if they caused your injury.
- A lawyer can help you get the most from both workers’ compensation and any third-party claims.
- Time is important—don’t wait too long to take action.
- Getting legal help early can make a big difference in your recovery and future.
