When Workers’ Comp is Not Enough

Allen Ritchie • October 20, 2017

If you are injured on the job and have been told that workers’ comp is the only money available, you might have been told wrong.

I have had cases where I have been able to go after product manufacturers and even other people to get my clients the money they needed to get well. It can be tricky but it is worth pursuing. Don’t take no for an answer without investigating all the options.

Workers’ comp in Alabama was started so employees, who got hurt on the job, could not sue their employers. In our state, you are generally limited to what workers’ comp pays — whether you think that is enough or not.

However, here are some examples where you might be able to get more money than worker’s comp provides:

  • Say a worker from a delivery company hits you with the company van. Assuming you don’t work for that company, you can sue the driver and the delivery company. Workers’ comp says you can’t sue your boss, not some other boss.
  • You are working on a piece of machinery that sends a sharp object into your leg. You can sue the manufacturer for creating the unsafe product.
  • You are hit by a car during your lunch break. You are not on the job; so, workers’ comp does not apply.

Worker’s comp can be tricky. Make sure you have the facts before you proceed.

If you or a family member is injured in a car wreck, slip and fall at a business, workers’ comp or any other injury, you can talk with the lawyers at  Eiland and Ritchie  for free. As we say, there is no cost until we collect for you. We want to help you get back on your feet.

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