What’s the Difference Between Personal Injury & Workers’ Compensation Claims?
Have you been seriously injured at work? Are you wondering if you should file a workers’ compensation or personal injury claim? In this blog, our experienced lawyers explain the difference between personal injury and workers’ compensation claims.
Personal Injury Cases
The most significant difference between the two claims is that personal injury claims are based on fault, while workers’ compensation claims do not require fault. For example, if you were involved in a car accident and you want to pursue compensation for your damages, you will have to prove that the other party was negligent.
You can recover the following types of damages in a personal injury case:
- Lost earnings
- Lost earning capacity
- Medical bills
- Future medical expenses
- Pain & suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Workers’ Comp Cases
If you are injured at work, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits that can be used to cover your accident damages. Unlike personal injury claims, you do not need to prove that your employer or another party was responsible for your injury. In fact, your negligence can contribute to your injury and you still might be eligible for worker’s comp benefits, depending on the details of your case.
You can recover the following types of damages in a workers’ compensation case:
- Weekly compensation
- Permanent impairment benefits
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Medical bills
Pain and suffering damages are not available in workers’ compensation case
Consult with a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
Our lawyers at Woodruff Johnson & Evans Law Offices are here to assist with all matters pertaining to workers’ compensation law. We are committed to using our extensive resources to secure the benefits our clients are entitled to. Stop by our office today to discuss all of your options under the law.
Call (630) 585-2320 to set up a free consultation with our law firm.