Understanding Third Party Liability in Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Cases
When you are injured on the job in Connecticut, workers’ compensation usually provides your medical treatment and wage replacement benefits. These benefits apply regardless of who caused the accident. However, some work injuries involve more than just your employer. When another person or company is responsible for your injury, you may be able to pursue both a workers’ compensation claim and a separate personal injury case. This is known as third-party liability.
Understanding how these two claims work together can significantly increase the compensation available to you.
When Third Party Liability Applies
A third-party claim is possible when someone other than your employer or a coworker contributed to your injury. Common examples include:
A negligent driver who hits your vehicle while you are driving for work
A property owner who fails to maintain safe conditions that injure you while you are working off-site
A subcontractor on a job site whose unsafe actions create a hazard
A manufacturer that produced defective tools or equipment that caused your injury
In these situations, workers’ compensation covers medical care and wage replacement, while a personal injury claim can pursue additional damages such as pain and suffering.
Why Personal Injury Claims Matter
Workers’ compensation benefits are limited. They do not include compensation for pain, emotional distress, or the long-term impact an injury can have on your quality of life. A third-party lawsuit allows you to recover money for losses that workers’ compensation does not cover.
A personal injury case can help you pursue:
Pain and suffering
Full lost wages not covered by workers’ compensation
Future medical care
Reduced earning capacity
Permanent harm or disability
This dual path ensures you are not left carrying the financial burden of an injury caused by someone else’s negligence.
How Both Claims Work Together
If you pursue a third-party claim, your workers’ compensation case continues to cover your immediate medical bills and lost wages. If your personal injury case results in a settlement or verdict, Connecticut law requires that some of the workers’ compensation payments be reimbursed. This process is called a lien.
An experienced attorney ensures that the reimbursement is calculated correctly in accordance with the law.
Why You Need Legal Guidance
Third-party cases are often more complex than traditional workers’ compensation claims. They require careful investigation, coordination between insurance companies, and strong documentation to prove fault.
At Sousa Law, we help injured Connecticut workers identify every source of compensation available. Our team handles both claims, so you never have to wonder whether you are leaving money on the table.
Contact Sousa Law
If you believe a third party contributed to your workplace injury, we can help you understand your options. Call (203) 929- 8283 today for a free consultation.