After a serious accident, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries. But how, and from whom, will depend upon the laws that apply in your case. If you've been injured due to the negligence of another party, you have grounds for a personal injury claim, while an injury on the job requires you to file a workers' compensation claim. Although the two are similar, they follow different processes and have their own specific requirements.

Workers' Compensation

Most employers carry workers' compensation insurance so they can meet their legal obligations to injured employees. If you get hurt at work, it doesn't matter who is at fault. You receive payment from your employer's insurance provider. While you cannot be paid benefits for pain and suffering due to a work injury, you will receive compensation for the cost of medical care, ongoing payments for any permanent disability, a percentage of the wages lost due to the injury, and, if necessary, the cost of vocational rehabilitation.

Personal Injury

A personal injury case can be settled out of court or decided in court. In this type of suit, you can recover all the damages caused by your injury, including pain and suffering and lost earning potential. However, the standard you must meet to win this type of suit is higher. Workers' compensation pays regardless of fault, but in a personal injury claim, you must prove the defendant is legally responsible and caused your injury through a breach of legal duty.

If you're facing a personal injury case or a workers' compensation claim, you should go in knowing what to expect. In both cases, an attorney familiar with the relevant law is your best chance of winning a disputed claim. 

Carey & Hamner, P.C. in Dothan, AL, provides representation to clients who have been injured or disabled. They are known for their personalized services and attention to detail. If you have a workers' compensation claim to file or a personal injury case to pursue, contact them today at (855) 435-4797 or online.