Workers’ compensation excels when it comes to workplace protection. In Minnesota, the law mandates that employers carry the insurance, and employees trust that the coverage will be enough if they get hurt on the job.
What if you deserve more?
When do you deserve more?
Injuries sustained at work may lead to a personal injury lawsuit. Let us explain how and highlight the role of job injury lawyers in Minnesota.
The Most Common Workplace Injuries
Certain occupations are naturally more dangerous than others. For instance, construction workers, healthcare professionals, and manufacturing and warehouse employees are at higher risk of injury, such as the following:
- Exposure to Harmful Substances or Environments: Factories, laboratories, and construction sites have hazardous chemicals, toxic fumes, or biohazards. Prolonged or accidental exposure can cause respiratory problems, skin conditions, poisoning, or long-term illnesses.
- Overexertion Injuries: Physical labor, such as lifting, pulling, or carrying heavy objects, can result in sprains, strains, and musculoskeletal injuries, which are common in warehouse, transportation, agricultural, and healthcare settings.
- Falls, Trips, and Slips: Whether from a wet floor, a misplaced tool, uneven surfaces, or a poorly maintained ladder, slip and fall accidents can lead to broken bones, spinal injuries, and head trauma.
Other workplace dangers can include repetitive motion injuries, struck-by incidents involving heavy equipment, or crush injuries from machinery. Mental stress-related injuries, while harder to prove, are also becoming more recognized in job-related claims.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Lawsuit
On the one hand, workers’ compensation is an insurance program that provides wage-loss, medical, and vocational rehabilitation benefits. It ensures employees have access to support until they can bounce back. The no-fault system means there is no need to prove that the employer was negligent to claim benefits.
On the other hand, a personal injury lawsuit is a civil claim against a person or entity whose negligence caused an injury. These lawsuits bring in broader compensation, including damages for pain and suffering. Unlike workers’ compensation, employees must prove that another party was at fault.
Workers’ compensation is often the first thing an employee focuses on when they get hurt at work. When does a job injury fall outside the system?
Personal injury lawsuits may be viable in certain work-related scenarios, especially when someone other than your employer is responsible for the mishap. Here are a few examples:
- Defective Equipment: If a machine or tool malfunctions because of a design or manufacturing defect, you may file a lawsuit against the manufacturer.
- Vehicle Accidents: If you were driving for work and another driver caused the accident, you could have grounds for a personal injury claim.
- Toxic Exposure from a Third Party: A third-party claim might be appropriate if you were exposed to harmful chemicals supplied by a careless vendor.
- Construction Site Hazards: Many job sites have multiple contractors. If oversight of a subcontractor or property owner harms you, you have a valid personal injury case.
It’s important to act quickly, as statutes of limitations apply. Delays in reporting or documenting the incident weaken claims or eliminate chances of full compensation.
Personal Injury at Work Lawyers Minnesota
Some attorneys focus exclusively on work compensation claims, while others have the knowledge and experience to pursue third-party personal injury cases when warranted. How can personal injury at work lawyers in Minnesota help you?
Case Assessment and Legal Guidance
An attorney evaluates whether your case qualifies for workers’ compensation, a personal injury lawsuit, or both. This professional reviews evidence, identifies liable parties, and determines the best courses of action.
Filing Workers’ Compensation Claims
Your injury may justify a personal injury lawsuit but work injury attorneys in Minnesota will still have to file and process your workers’ compensation claim. Receive medical care and wage replacement while other legal actions are pending.
Investigating Third-Party Liability
Legal experts know how to dig deeper. If someone was involved in your accident, your team will gather evidence, work with other professionals, and build a case for benefits beyond workers’ compensation.
Negotiating Settlements or Going to Trial
Through mediation or courtroom litigation, job injury lawyers in Minnesota advocate for your best interests, seeking the maximum compensation you are entitled to under the law. Lawyers fight with you and for you.
Ultimately, work injury attorneys in Minnesota provide peace of mind during a difficult period. Count on them to guide you in avoiding mistakes and protecting your rights at every stage.
Get in Touch with Work Injury Attorneys Minnesota
Workplace injuries are life-changing in unfortunate ways. While workers’ compensation is a starting point, it may not be enough to cover all your damages. With third-party negligence or unsafe conditions involved, you may receive more through a personal injury lawsuit.
At Osterbauer Law Firm, we help injured workers understand their rights and explore all legal options. We are seasoned personal injury at work lawyers in Minnesota; if your injury requires a more aggressive legal response, our team is ready to go to court.
Call (612) 334-3434 or contact Osterbauer Law Firm online for a free consultation and to start your comeback journey.