Third-Party Liability in Oklahoma

Workers injured on the job should be able to turn to workers’ compensation for coverage of medical bills and lost wages. However, there are times when a third party outside of the employer may be responsible for the accident, and workers’ comp doesn’t pay the full amount. This is where third-party liability claims come into play, allowing you to recover additional damages if they’re found liable.

At Parrish DeVaughn, we guide injured workers in Oklahoma City through the process of these complex cases and fight for the maximum compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

What Is Third-Party Liability in Workplace Accidents?

Third-party liability means someone besides your employer might be responsible for your injury. While workers’ comp will cover your basic medical expenses and lost wages, it prevents you from suing your employer.

Third-party liability claims allow you to take legal action against other parties whose negligence contributed to your workplace injury for additional compensation.

Examples of Third Parties Who May Be Liable

Equipment Manufacturers
Subcontractors and Vendors
Property Owners
Drivers in Motor Vehicle Accidents
Suppliers of Hazardous Materials

A third-party liability case can significantly increase the amount of compensation you get after a workplace accident. Unlike workers’ compensation, third-party liability claims take into account damages such as the pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.

Common Causes of Third-Party Liability in Oklahoma Workplace Accidents

Some of the most common causes of accidents involving third-party negligence include:

Defective Machinery or Equipment: Malfunctioning power tools, forklifts, scaffolding, or heavy machinery
Negligence by Subcontractors or Vendors: Independent contractors failing to follow proper safety protocols
Unsafe Premises Maintained by Third Parties: Hazardous conditions at a worksite owned or managed by someone other than the employer
Motor Vehicle Accidents Involving Third-Party Drivers: Work-related crashes caused by negligent drivers who are not part of the company
Exposure to Hazardous Substances: Third-party suppliers failing to properly label, store, or transport dangerous materials, leading to toxic exposure

Understanding who is responsible for your workplace accident is essential as you determine your legal options. Our attorneys at Parrish DeVaughn conduct thorough investigations to identify all liable parties and hold them accountable.

How Third-Party Liability Impacts Workers and Their Families

A serious workplace injury can have a devastating impact on both the injured worker and the people who love and count on them. The challenges faced by victims and their families often include:

Loss of Income: Inability to work due to injuries can lead to financial hardship.
Mounting Medical Expenses: Long-term medical treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation can drain a family’s financial resources.
Emotional and Psychological Toll: The stress, anxiety, and depression that come with life-altering injuries deserve legal consideration.
Need for Long-Term Care: Some injuries require ongoing therapy, home modifications, or assistive devices.

A third-party liability claim can help secure the additional compensation needed to ease these burdens and secure a stronger financial future for victims and their loved ones.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Third-Party Liability Case?

Unlike workers’ compensation, which has strict limits on benefits, a third-party liability claim allows injured workers to pursue full financial recovery. Damages may include:

Economic Damages:

Medical Expenses: Covers hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications
Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity: Compensation for missed work and reduced ability to earn in the future
Assistive Devices and Home Modifications: Covers prosthetics, wheelchairs, and necessary home adjustments

Non-Economic Damages:

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for the inability to participate in daily activities and hobbies
Mental Anguish: Compensation for PTSD, depression, and emotional trauma

It is essential to work with an experienced lawyer who can calculate long-term damages and fight for the full amount you deserve.

How Parrish DeVaughn Supports Workplace Accident Victims in Oklahoma City

At Parrish DeVaughn, we guide injured workers through third-party liability claims and maximize their compensation. Our thorough approach includes:

Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence, incident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions
Consulting with Medical and Industry Experts: Getting an assessment of the full scope of the injuries and their impact on your life
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Fighting for a fair settlement that reflects the true cost of your injury
Preparing for Trial: If needed, taking your case to court to seek justice

Our client-first approach means you can focus on healing while we handle the rest.

Challenges of Third-Party Liability Cases

Third-party liability claims can be complex due to legal and insurance hurdles. Some of the biggest challenges include:

Proving Third-Party Negligence: Demonstrating that the third party directly contributed to the accident
Overcoming Insurance Company Tactics: Fighting insurers who may try to deny, delay, or minimize claims
Navigating Oklahoma’s Comparative Fault Rules: Making sure your compensation isn’t unfairly reduced because an insurer claims you were partially responsible

Having an experienced legal team on your side can make all the difference in overcoming these challenges and securing the compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Oklahoma City Workplace Accident Lawyers

If you were injured at work because a third-party was negligent, you may be entitled to compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits. At Parrish DeVaughn, we fight for injured workers and their families to secure the benefits they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.