Under Iowa law, workers are generally prohibited from suing their employers over workplace injuries — workers’ compensation is intended to provide the medical and wage loss benefits they need.
However, in cases in which a third party is responsible for the damages, the injury victim may pursue a personal injury suit against that party. Personal injury law allows plaintiffs to seek compensation for pain and suffering, diminished quality of life and other damages not covered under workers’ compensation.
What Qualifies As A Third Party?
A third party is an individual or business that is not your employer or a fellow employee. Third parties may be contractors, other businesses, individuals and others whose negligence results in a workplace injury. Examples of on-the-job injuries caused by third parties include:
- Defective equipment resulting in injuries (the equipment manufacturer may be liable)
- A reckless driver causing in an injury to someone who is driving for work purposes
- A third-party contractor causing an injury at a construction site
If you have suffered a workplace injury and you think a third party may have been even partly responsible, consult with an experienced work injury lawyer as soon as possible.
At our firm, we have extensive experience handling workers’ compensation claims and third-party personal injury claims. This experience allows us to pursue maximum compensation for clients who have suffered workplace injuries.
Contact Our Polk County Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
If you have questions regarding third-party liability claims, our workplace accident lawyers are here for you. Contact us today at 515.989.8529 to arrange a consultation with an experienced Des Moines third-party liability attorney. We are available for weekend and evening appointments, are conveniently located near the Des Moines civic center, and work with Spanish and Bosnian translators.
