Reading Workplace Injury Lawyer
Workplace injuries are devastating. You may not be able to return to work for a significant period of time, all the while your medical bills are piling up. While the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act provides benefits for employees who are hurt at work, it does not provide compensation for all damages and losses caused by injuries in the workplace. Still, workers sometimes have the right to additional compensation for workplace injuries. A third party claim may result in compensation for the loss of income incurred due to a workplace injury. Below, our Reading workplace injury lawyer explains more.
Workplace Injuries are Traumatic
Employees hurt in the workplace can suffer catastrophic injuries that are often even life-threatening. Some injuries may cause lifelong disabilities and impairments. Common injuries suffered in the workplace include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Head injuries
- Severe burns
- Paralysis
- Neck injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Repetitive motion injuries
- Facial injuries
Employees are exposed to a number of dangers and hazards that increase the risk of injury. Employers are required to provide a safe work environment, including providing safety equipment and safety training. You should not assume that you do not have any recourse other than claiming workers’ compensation benefits. It is important to work with a Reading workplace injury lawyer who can advise you of your legal options.
Third Party Claims for Workplace Injuries
If an employee is covered by workers’ compensation, they do not have the legal right to file a lawsuit against their employer. This is true even when an employee’s full damages and losses are not covered by workers’ compensation benefits. However, there are certain cases when an injured employee can use their employer under the state’s personal injury laws.
When an employer intentionally causes a worker to suffer an injury, the employee can file a lawsuit against the employer. If the employer showed gross negligence, such as intentionally failing to provide workers with safety equipment, the employee could have a valid lawsuit against the employer.
In some instances, other third party claims may also apply. For example, if an employee was driving while performing their employment duties and another driver was negligent, the injured worker may have a valid third party claim. Additionally, if an employee was injured by a defective piece of equipment, the injured employee could file a lawsuit against the manufacturer of the product.
Contact Our Workplace Injury Lawyer in Reading for More Information
Before settling your claim after being hurt, let our Reading workplace injury lawyer at Ira H. Weinstock, P.C., review the facts of your case without cost. Our experienced attorney can advise you of your legal options and help you determine whether you should file a workers’ comp claim or file a third party lawsuit. We can also help you through the appropriate process to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. Call us now at 717-238-1657 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our attorney and to get more information.
