Third-Party Liability Work Injury Lawyer in Metairie, LA

Hurt on the job by someone outside your company? You may be entitled to more than just workers' comp.

When your workplace injury is caused by a contractor, delivery driver, equipment manufacturer, or other third party, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit in addition to receiving workers' comp. At The Law Office of Bruce C. Betzer, we help injured workers in Metairie, New Orleans, and the surrounding parishes explore every option for full and fair compensation-especially when someone other than your employer is to blame.

When Third Parties Are Responsible for Work Injuries

01.

Contractor or Subcontractor Negligence

On shared worksites, accidents often happen because a subcontractor or outside worker ignores safety rules. We investigate the source of negligence and pursue all responsible parties.


Tip: You can't sue your employer, but you can sue a negligent third party.

If someone else's carelessness caused your injury, let's talk.

02.

Faulty Equipment or Tools

Malfunctioning machinery or defective tools can cause crushing injuries, burns, or electrocution. We take on manufacturers and suppliers to hold them accountable.

Tip: Don't throw away damaged tools-preserve them as evidence.

If a product failed and hurt you, we want to hear your story.

03.

Vehicle Accidents While on the Job

If you were hit by another driver while working-whether delivering, traveling between jobs, or working roadside-you may have a third-party claim against the at-fault driver.

Tip: Keep copies of all communication with your employer and doctors.

Get help coordinating both types of claims today.

What's Typically Covered

Third-party liability claims may cover:

  • Construction site injuries
  • Roadway collisions during work
  • Equipment malfunctions
  • Negligence by building owners, vendors, or other companies
  • Chemical exposure from outside suppliers

These claims allow you to recover damages beyond what workers' comp provides.

Who Can Be Held Liable

Potential third-party defendants include:

  • Independent contractors or subcontractors
  • Equipment and tool manufacturers
  • Property owners or managers
  • Vendors, delivery drivers, or transport companies
  • Maintenance providers or leasing agents


We investigate every angle to identify all liable parties.

Coordinating Workers' Comp & Third-Party Lawsuits

Dual Claims

You can file a personal injury lawsuit while also receiving workers' comp-but the cases must be coordinated carefully to avoid benefit conflicts.


Reimbursement Rules

If you win damages in a lawsuit, workers' comp may be entitled to reimbursement. We manage lien negotiations so you keep more of your recovery.


Statute of Limitations

Third-party claims must typically be filed within one year. We help you act quickly and strategically.


Basic Elements of a Valid Claim

To bring a third-party work injury claim, we must show:

  • You were injured in the course of your job
  • The third party owed you a duty of care
  • They breached that duty and caused your injury
  • You suffered actual damages


Damages in Third-Party Claims

Unlike workers' comp, third-party lawsuits allow full personal injury damages, including:

  • Pain & suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Future lost earnings
  • Punitive damages (in some cases)
  • Medical costs not covered by comp

FAQ

  • Can I sue both my employer and a third party?

    No. You usually can't sue your employer, but you can file workers' comp and also sue a negligent third party.

  • What's the benefit of a third-party claim?

    These claims allow you to recover much more than workers' comp-especially for pain, suffering, and future losses.

  • Do I need a lawyer for this?

    Yes. These cases are complex, and you'll be dealing with multiple insurance companies. We handle the legal side so you don't have to.

  • Will filing a third-party lawsuit affect my workers' comp?

    It may, depending on lien rights. We'll work to maximize your total recovery and minimize repayment.

  • How long do I have to file?

    Typically one year from the date of injury. Don't wait-contact us as soon as possible.

Get Full Compensation for a Work Injury Caused by Someone Else

If your injury was caused by someone outside your company, you may be entitled to more than just basic benefits. We'll help you navigate your workers' comp claim and pursue additional damages through a third-party lawsuit.

 Call now to speak with a Metairie attorney about your workplace injury options.