Amazon gets a lot of attention in the news. The massive success of the online retailer often grabs headlines, as does founder Jeff Bezos as the richest man in the world. However, there have been reports about the lack of safety protocols causing injury to the company’s workers as well as accusations that the company manipulating injury investigations to place fault with the worker.
This has led some to avoid filing a workers’ compensation in favor of a more lucrative personal injury claim. While some may not be aware of this, workers can file a personal injury claim if it meets specific standards.
Personal injury in the workplace
A personal injury claim may be possible under the following circumstances:
- Employer intentionally caused harm: This may happen when an employer sends workers into dangerous working conditions not within the regular job description, or if they tried to injure the worker in some way.
- Exposure to toxic substances: Victims may be able to file a toxic tort lawsuit against the employer or the chemical manufacturer.
- No workers’ comp insurance: Employers are legally required to carry workers’ comp, but they may allow the policy to expire or cancel it.
- Defective products: There may be a product liability claim against the employer or manufacturer if a defective product caused injury on the job.
- Injuries caused by others: A company driver who is the victim in a crash may be able to file a case against the negligent driver.
Cases often involve more money
Some may complain about the expense of workers’ comp or creating safe working conditions. Still, a catastrophic injury is not only life-changing for the victim and their family, but it can also shut down companies because the personal injury settlements or awards are generally much larger than the insurance. Those unsure where their claim belongs should contact a personal injury attorney to get more information.
