Third-Party Liability for Severe Work Injuries in La Porte, Texas
In the event of a work injury in La Porte, Texas, liability could fall on a number of parties. In the case of an at-fault third party, meaning the employer is not directly responsible, their insurance may not pay benefits. However, you still have legal options to recover damages and move forward. Read below, then consult with an attorney to learn more about your specific options.
What is Third-Party Liability?When a work injury is the fault of any person or entity besides the employer or the injured employee, third-party liability comes into play. Third-party liability in La Porte workplace injuries often falls to:
- Contractors or subcontractors
- Manufacturers
- Co-workers
- Customers
According to the Texas Labor Code, an employee can seek compensation from a third party when they are liable for injuries sustained on the job. It also allows them to pursue workers’ compensation benefits. However, for severe injuries, workers’ compensation might not provide sufficient compensation for the damages.
It is important to note that if you pursue a lawsuit after receiving workers’ compensation benefits, the insurance company that paid out those benefits will expect to be reimbursed. Speaking with a lawyer as soon as possible after your work injury will allow you to better understand how to proceed after a severe work injury.
Common Types of Third-Party Liability CasesThere are a few third-party liability cases that are common. They include:
Auto AccidentsWhen a job requires employees to operate cars or trucks and an accident occurs, a negligent driver causing an accident could be held liable for injuries sustained.
Slips and FallsTexas law requires property owners to maintain safe conditions for visitors. If they fail to provide this duty of care, they may be held accountable for injuries sustained on the premises.
Injury Involving Machinery or Heavy EquipmentImproperly operated or maintained equipment that causes injury, such as blunt trauma or electrocution, often falls under third-party liability. Often, these work injury claims in La Porte Tx are pursued against the manufacturer of the equipment, or a contractor or co-worker operating the equipment.
Burns or Accidents Involving ChemicalsLa Porte is home to many chemical plants and companies, which can be inherently hazardous. Accidents with these chemicals that involve negligence by any party, including other employees, would be considered third-party.
Legal Options and Compensation for DamagesWhen workers’ compensation is unavailable or inadequate, the only legal recourse for severe work injuries is a lawsuit. Filing a lawsuit allows you to pursue damages including, but not limited to:
- Medical bills: this can include past and future costs related to medical and health-related expenses
- Lost income: you may be able to recoup wages you were unable to earn because of your injury, and/or future income that is impacted as a result of the injuries
- Pain and suffering: this is one of many non-economic damages that could be pursued, and may apply if your injuries caused significant distress
Knowledgeable Texas lawyers for work injury claims are essential. Their expertise allows them to accurately discern what damages you are entitled to pursue and they will ensure that you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
Get a Free Initial Consultation with Top Texas FirmThe La Porte Attorneys for Workplace Accidents at Carabin Shaw are ready to fight for you. With nearly three decades of experience in the world of personal injury law, our established firm is known for relentlessly representing our clients and delivering justice. Our team is dedicated to helping our clients navigate the complicated legal landscape and achieving outcomes that allow them to move forward after terrible experiences with security and dignity.
You can see from Carabin Shaw reviews that our dedication to our clients is unmatched. Because of this, we offer our services on a contingency fee basis. To get started, call us toll-free at 800-862-1260, where we have English and Spanish-speaking representatives available 24/7.
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