It’s common knowledge that if construction workers are hurt on the job, they can collect Workers’ Compensation benefits. But that’s not necessarily the end of the story. Anyone injured at work may also be entitled to file a personal injury claim. Here are the main differences between Workers’ Compensation and a personal injury claim:

Workers’ Compensation: With Workers’ Compensation, there is no need to prove fault in order to collect weekly benefits. But these benefits are limited. They only compensate you for lost wages, medical bills, and permanent impairment.

Personal Injury Claim: In order to recover damages through a personal injury claim, your attorney must prove that another party—such as the construction site owner, building owner, general contractor, or subcontractor—was negligent or reckless. A personal injury claim seeks to recover all of the damages you’ve had to deal with due to your bodily or brain injury. You can seek compensation for pain and suffering, loss of life’s pleasures, lost earning capacity, and even future medical and rehabilitation costs.

Maybe you were told that accepting Workers’ Compensation benefits prevents you from suing. But this isn’t always true. Whether you were hurt on a construction site, factory floor, or other location, it may be possible to bring a claim or lawsuit to recover additional and substantial compensation. This would be above and beyond any workers’ compensation benefits you receive. Consult our team of lawyers today.