Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you can collect benefits regardless of who or what caused your workplace injury. While this is a great advantage for many injured employees, sometimes, the negligent party should be held accountable. If you believe another person was responsible for your injury, you should consult with the experienced team at Bothe And Lauridsen. They have handled numerous claims involving injuries in Columbia Falls, MT, offices and work sites and can help you determine which type of claim you should file, as well as who is at fault for your workplace injury.

Who Is at Fault?

With workers’ compensation, it doesn’t matter whether a worker’s own carelessness led to their injury or a negligent coworker or employer is to blame. Either way, you can collect benefits. In doing so, however, you give up the right to sue your employer.

It is always beneficial to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney first, however. The lawyers at Bothe And Lauridsen can investigate your workplace injury further to determine if a third party might be responsible. If so, it may be worth your time to pursue a personal injury claim against them.

Pros & Cons of Holding a Third Party Responsible

If the attorneys at Bothe And Lauridsen discover your workplace injury was the result of defective equipment, for example, they can file a claim against the manufacturer. Unlike workers’ compensation, a successful personal injury claim can cover all your medical expenses and lost wages, in addition to pain and suffering.

There are drawbacks, though. Generally, if you are successful in collecting compensation from a negligent third party, you must pay back what workers’ compensation has already given you. In most cases, the compensation from a personal injury claim is more than enough to offset these costs.

If you sustained a workplace injury and are not sure who was at fault, the personal injury attorneys at Bothe And Lauridsen can help. You can contact them online or call them at (406) 892-2193 to have them review your case.