Beyond Workers' Comp
Every year, thousands of workers in California suffer workplace accidents that change their lives. While workers' compensation provides some benefits, it's often not enough to cover all the losses of a seriously injured worker.
Our workplace injury lawyers go beyond workers' comp. We investigate every accident to identify responsible third parties – contractors, equipment manufacturers, building owners – who can be sued to obtain full compensation including pain and suffering.
Workers' Comp vs. Personal Injury Lawsuit
Workers' Comp
- • Limited benefits
- • Only 2/3 of lost wages
- • No compensation for pain and suffering
- • Process controlled by insurer
- • Doesn't require proving negligence
Personal Injury (Third Party)
- • Full compensation
- • 100% of lost wages
- • Includes pain and suffering
- • You control the process
- • Requires proving third party negligence
Types of Workplace Accidents
Construction Accidents
- • Falls from heights
- • Collapses and cave-ins
- • Electrocutions
- • Struck by objects
Machinery and Equipment
- • Caught in machinery
- • Defective equipment
- • Missing safety guards
- • Inadequate maintenance
Toxic Exposures
- • Hazardous chemicals
- • Asbestos and lead
- • Fumes and vapors
- • Occupational diseases
Other Accidents
- • Slips and falls
- • Vehicle accidents
- • Repetitive strain injuries
- • Workplace violence
Responsible Third Parties in Workplace Accidents
In addition to workers' comp, you can sue third parties whose negligence caused or contributed to your accident:
- Equipment manufacturers – If defective equipment caused your injury
- Subcontractors – If another contractor on site was negligent
- Building owners – If unsafe conditions caused the accident
- Drivers from other companies – If a driver caused a vehicle accident
- Maintenance companies – If inadequate maintenance caused failures
Compensation for Workplace Injuries
With a third-party lawsuit, you can recover:
- Full Medical Expenses
100% of all treatments, not limited to workers' comp network
- Full Lost Wages
100% of your wages, not just 2/3 like workers' comp
- Pain and Suffering
Significant compensation that workers' comp does NOT provide
- Punitive Damages
In cases of gross negligence or intentional conduct
Steps After a Workplace Accident
- Report the accident – Notify your supervisor immediately in writing.
- Seek medical attention – Use the workers' comp doctor but also consult your own physician.
- Document everything – Take photos, keep records, write down witness names.
- Don't sign anything – Insurers will try to limit your rights.
- Contact a lawyer – A workplace injury lawyer can identify responsible third parties.