.2501141037126.png)
Workplace accidents can strike unexpectedly, leaving you injured and wondering how to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. While some injuries result from hazards within your direct work environment, others occur due to third-party negligence—whether it’s a defective product, unsafe property conditions, or a motor vehicle collision during work-related travel.
If you’ve been injured at work because of a third party, it’s important to act immediately. Taking the right steps helps ensure proper medical care and strengthens your legal claim, helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
Below, the team at Rourke & Blumenthal has outlined five critical steps to follow after a workplace accident caused by third-party negligence in Columbus, OH.
Step 1: Report the Incident to Your Employer
After any workplace accident, including one involving third-party negligence, notify your employer immediately. Ohio law requires employees to report injuries promptly, and delays in doing so could jeopardize your legal claims.
Be specific when explaining the injury—describe what happened, the third party involved, and any conditions that contributed to the accident. Request a written incident report and keep a copy for your records. Timely reporting demonstrates accountability and ensures the accident is documented properly, which can support your claims later.
Step 2: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if the injury initially seems minor, seek medical care immediately. Injuries caused by faulty equipment, hazardous environments, or motor vehicle accidents can worsen over time if left untreated. Inform your doctor that the injury relates to a workplace accident involving a third party, so they can provide thorough documentation.
Medical records are crucial when pursuing compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, or lost wages. Follow all prescribed treatments and retain copies of your medical reports and bills to support your case.
Step 3: Identify Third-Party Negligence
Unlike standard workplace injuries that fall solely under workers’ compensation, third-party negligence introduces additional avenues for legal action.
Some common scenarios include:
- Defective Equipment – Injuries caused by defective machinery, tools, or safety equipment can often form the basis of a product liability claim. For example, if a safety harness fails during use, the manufacturer or distributor could be held responsible.
- Unsafe Off-Site Premises – When working on another property, the property owner is responsible for ensuring safe conditions. Slip-and-fall accidents or injuries from hazardous structures could lead to a premises liability claim against the property owner or manager.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents – If you’re injured in a car accident while traveling for work, the at-fault driver or their insurance company may be liable. This applies to delivery drivers, traveling sales representatives, or employees commuting between job sites.
Properly identifying the third party responsible for your accident is a critical step in pursuing the full amount of compensation you deserve.
Step 4: Document the Accident Thoroughly
Detailed documentation strengthens your case when pursuing a third-party liability claim. Start by taking photographs of the accident scene, any equipment involved, and any hazardous conditions.
If witnesses saw the incident, get their contact information and written statements. Keep records of all communications related to your case—this includes conversations with your employer, insurance representatives, and medical providers. Documentation can make a significant difference in proving negligence and holding third parties accountable.
Step 5: Consult a Columbus Workplace Accident Attorney
Workplace accidents involving third-party negligence often require more than just filing a workers’ compensation claim. A skilled personal injury attorney can evaluate your situation, identify liable parties, and build a strong legal strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
For instance, if defective equipment caused your injuries, your lawyer can work to secure compensation through a product liability claim. Similarly, if a slip-and-fall occurred off-site, an attorney can hold the property owner accountable through a premises liability case. Their expertise may help you receive compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
Why Choose Rourke & Blumenthal?
At Rourke & Blumenthal, our attorneys are well-versed in the unique challenges faced by workers injured due to third-party negligence. Whether it’s a product malfunction, an unsafe property, or a car accident while on the job, navigating these cases can be overwhelming.
Our experienced Columbus attorneys are well-versed in workplace injury and third-party liability cases. We'll guide you from start to finish—investigating your accident, identifying liable parties, and advocating for the compensation you deserve. We fight to protect your well-being, so you don’t have to face the consequences of your injury alone.
If you’ve been injured on the job, don’t wait. Contact Rourke & Blumenthal today for a free case evaluation.