Blog Layout

Third-Party Claims when Hurt at Work

February 20, 2020

Third-Party Claims when Hurt at Work

Third-Party Claims when Hurt at Work
As an employee, you may have heard that your only recourse after a workplace injury is to file a workers' compensation claim. While it is certainly the case that Alabama’s workers’ compensation statute does prevent workers from filing a personal injury claim against their employers, it does not prevent them from filing a personal injury claim against a third party whose negligence caused a workplace accident.

There are various parties whose negligence could result in a workplace accident and third-party liability. Some of the most common are discussed below. To learn more or to discuss the specifics of your case with a personal injury lawyer in Alabama, call our office today.

Independent Contractors
Independent contractors are common at many worksites, including construction sites, offices, and jobs involving general labor. When the negligence of an independent contractor results in an accident, victims can typically file a personal injury claim against the independent contractor - or his or her employer. For example, let's say you are a construction worker, and your company hires an outside firm to perform a specific task. If one of the outside firm's employees causes an accident, you may be able to recover compensation from that firm.

Manufacturers
All of us use various products while we are at work. Painters often work from ladders, office workers sit on chairs, factory workers operate various pieces of equipment, and the list goes on and on. If a product you are using in the course of your work is defectively designed, manufactured, or marketed, and that defect leads to a workplace injury, you can likely file a product liability claim against the product's manufacturer to recover for your losses.

Drivers
If you are injured in a car accident while you are driving within the scope of your employment and the accident was the result of another driver’s negligence, you can likely recover compensation from the other driver (typically through his or her insurance company). Some examples of driver conduct that usually qualifies as negligence includes:

●    Speeding
●    Distracted driving
●    Following too closely
●    Impaired driving
●    Failing to signal lane changes and turns

Why Does it Matter?
You may be wondering why you would want to go through the trouble of filing a personal injury claim against a third-party when you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits regardless of fault. The reason that it’s always preferable to file a personal injury claim if you can is that personal injury claims provide compensation for non-economic losses like pain and suffering, while workers’ compensation does not.

Call Us Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with an Alabama Personal Injury Attorney
If you have sustained an injury at work that was caused by a third party’s negligence, there’s a good chance that you are entitled to compensation for your losses. For nearly two decades, attorney Matt Matthews has been helping injured victims get the compensation they deserve under Alabama law. To schedule a consultation with Mr. Matthews, call our office today at 334-398-8404 or contact us online.

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established. These recoveries and testimonials are not an indication of future results. Every case is different, and regardless of what friends, family, or other individuals may say about what a case is worth, each case must be evaluated on its own facts and circumstances as they apply to the law. The valuation of a case depends on the facts, the injuries, the jurisdiction, the venue, the witnesses, the parties, and the testimony, among other factors. No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. 


The Law Office of Richard F. Matthews, Jr. serves Montgomery County, Pike County, Elmore County, Autauga County, the River Region of Alabama and throughout the State of Alabama, including Montgomery, Troy, Wetumpka Prattville, Selma and Tuskegee. No attorney-client relationship is established by requesting a consultation or emailing Attorney Richard F. Matthews, Jr.. Information submitted in such communication is not privileged and may be subject to disclosure. 

Federal Wire Fraud Charges: Key Facts You Should Know

Federal Wire Fraud Charges: What You Need to Know

By Matt Matthews • April 1, 2025
Facing federal wire fraud charges? Learn the essential facts, legal penalties, and defense options to protect your rights. Stay informed now.
Common Injuries in Rear-End Collisions on I-65

Common Injuries in Rear-End Collisions on I-65

By Matt Matthews • April 1, 2025
Learn about common injuries from rear-end collisions on I-65. Get insights on legal options and seek the compensation you deserve.
A semi truck is driving down a wet highway in the rain.

What Are the Penalties in Big Truck Wrecks?

By Matt Matthews • March 5, 2025
If you have been in a big truck wreck, the consequences can be devastating. Not only are you dealing with physical injury and emotional distress, but you are also likely facing financial burdens from medical bills and lost wages.
A doctor is sitting at a desk talking to a patient.

Proving Negligence in Alabama Wrongful Death Cases

By Matt Matthews • February 5, 2025
Losing a loved one due to an unexpected wrongful death is an incredibly painful and devastating experience. If you are in Alabama and believe that your loved one's death was caused by someone else's negligence, you should never hesitate to seek justice.
Key Differences Between Alabama Wrongful Death vs. Personal Injury Claims

Key Differences Between Alabama Wrongful Death vs. Personal Injury Claims

By Matt Matthews • January 28, 2025
Learn the key differences between personal injury and wrongful death claims in Alabama, including plaintiffs, damages, and legal processes.Contact Montgomery attorney Matt Mathews for expert guidance and a free consultation to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.
Impact of Weather & speeding on Montgomery Traffic Accidents

The Impact of Weather & Speeding on Montgomery Traffic Accidents

By Matt Matthews • January 28, 2025
Learn how speeding and adverse weather increase accident risks on Montgomery roads. Discover Alabama's speed limits, the dangers of hydroplaning, and the science behind stopping distances.
Alabama's Fault Laws in Auto Accidents

Understanding Alabama's Fault Laws in Auto Accidents

By Matt Matthews • December 12, 2024
Understand Alabama's car accident fault laws, including the strict contributory negligence rule, and learn how an experienced attorney can help you secure compensation. The Law Offices of Richard F. Matthews, Jr., specializes in investigating accidents, negotiating with insurance companies, and litigating claims to protect your rights. Schedule a free consultation today to get expert legal guidance and peace of mind.
How to defend drug trafficking charges in Alabama

Defending Against Drug Trafficking Charges in Alabama

By Matt Matthews • December 12, 2024
Learn about defending against drug trafficking charges in Alabama, including potential legal defenses like illegal search and seizure, lack of knowledge, and entrapment.
Show More

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. To learn more, go to the Privacy Page.

×
Share by: