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Understanding Third-Party Liability in a Work Accident

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In the wake of a devastating work accident, an employee may want to know who can be held responsible. Most people may assume they can hold their employer liable for their injuries. However, due to workers’ compensation laws, this is rarely the case.

Still, this does not mean injured workers cannot file a lawsuit after a work injury. There may be other parties on the job site, besides the employer, that can be held liable for the injury. Learn who these parties may be below.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Work Accident?

There are limited situations in which workers may sue their employers for a work injury. This is because workers’ compensation laws protect employers from liability while ensuring injured workers always receive compensation after a work injury, regardless of fault.

However, sometimes the employer is not the party who even caused the accident. There are often other parties on a job site that could have contributed to an accident. These “third parties” may include:

  • A manufacturer. Workers on a job site use equipment that is produced by an outside manufacturer. If a defect with this equipment caused a work injury, the manufacturer may be held liable for damages.
  • A contracted worker. Not every worker on a job site is employed by the same company. If a third-party, contracted worker caused a work injury due to their reckless actions, then that worker may be held liable for damages.
  • A negligent driver. In the case of a construction work zone, a distracted or negligent driver may cause an injury by driving into the work zone. In this case, the driver may be held liable for damages.

Injured in a Work Accident? Contact Us Today

Third-party liability claims in a work accident are complicated and require the guidance of a seasoned legal professional. Our Pittsburgh personal injury attorneys at Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. can walk you through this process and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Call Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. at (844) 383-0565 to schedule a free consultation.

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