If you’ve been injured on the job in Arkansas, your first thought may be that workers’ compensation is your only option. While workers’ comp is important for covering basic medical care and partial wage loss, it rarely provides full compensation—especially for serious injuries with lasting effects.

What many injured workers don’t realize is that if someone other than your employer or a co-worker contributed to your injury, you may be eligible to file a third-party claim for workplace injury—a personal injury lawsuit that can help you recover significantly more than workers’ comp alone.

At the Reed Firm, we focus on workplace injury cases involving third-party liability. If your injury was caused by a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, negligent driver, or other third party, we’re ready to fight for the full justice and compensation you deserve. 

What Is a Third-Party Claim for Workplace Injury? 

A third-party claim is a personal injury lawsuit filed against a party other than your employer whose negligence contributed to your injury. This type of claim is separate from workers’ compensation and allows injured workers to seek damages for pain and suffering, full lost wages, and more. 

Why It Matters:
Workers’ compensation does not allow you to sue your employer, even if they were negligent. However, it doesn’t protect third parties—and that opens the door to pursuing additional compensation. 

Real-Life Examples of Third-Party Claims in Workplace Injuries 

Here are common workplace scenarios where a third-party claim may be possible: 

1. Construction Site Accidents Involving Subcontractors
On construction sites, multiple companies often work side-by-side. If another contractor or vendor causes an unsafe condition, you may have a third-party claim.
✔ Example: A framing subcontractor fails to secure scaffolding, causing you to fall and suffer spinal injuries. You may be able to pursue a claim against that subcontractor for negligence. 

2. Defective Equipment and Machinery
If you were injured by malfunctioning tools, machines, or vehicles, the manufacturer or maintenance company may be held liable under product liability laws. 
✔ Example: A defective table saw kicks back and causes a serious hand injury. You may have a case against the manufacturer for releasing a dangerous product.

3. Vehicle Accidents While on the Job
If you’re injured in a crash while driving for work and another driver is at fault, you can sue that driver—even while collecting workers’ comp.
✔ Example: A delivery driver is T-boned by a distracted motorist. They can file a third-party personal injury claim against the negligent driver. 

4. Slip and Fall Accidents on Third-Party Property
If you’re working on a job site not owned by your employer and you’re injured due to unsafe conditions, the property owner could be liable.
✔ Example: While unloading materials at a commercial site, you slip on a greasy loading dock. The building owner may be responsible for poor maintenance. 

5. Exposure to Hazardous Materials
If a supplier, manufacturer, or contractor failed to warn about or contain toxic substances, you may have a third-party claim for chemical exposure.
✔ Example: You develop respiratory issues after prolonged exposure to harmful solvents with no warning labels. The chemical supplier may be liable for your illness. 

Why a Third-Party Claim May Offer More Than Workers’ Compensation 

Workers’ compensation is limited. It only covers medical bills and a portion of lost wages—but it doesn’t pay for pain, emotional suffering, or full future income loss. 

By contrast, a successful third-party personal injury claim may include: 

✅ Full lost wages, including future income if you’re unable to return to work 
✅ Pain and suffering damages for physical and emotional distress 
✅ Medical expenses, including long-term treatment and therapy 
✅ Punitive damages if the third party acted recklessly or maliciously 

What to Do If You Suspect a Third Party Is Responsible 

If you believe someone outside your company may have contributed to your injury, take the following steps: 

✔ Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Always see a doctor and document your injuries. This creates a medical record that will support your case.

✔ Report the Incident to Your Employer
Make sure your employer is notified and an incident report is filed—even if you plan to pursue a third-party claim. 

✔ Gather Evidence
Take photos of the accident scene, equipment, and injuries. Collect witness names and contact information. 

✔ Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Not all workplace injury lawyers handle third-party claims—but the Reed Firm does. We’ll investigate your case, identify liable parties, and build a strong personal injury claim on your behalf. 

Why Choose the Reed Firm for Your Workplace Injury Case? 

At the Reed Firm, we don’t handle routine workers’ comp claims—but we specialize in personal injury cases involving third-party workplace injuries. We’re passionate about helping injured workers pursue every avenue for justice and fair compensation. 

Whether your injury was caused by a negligent subcontractor, reckless driver, or defective equipment, we’ll stand by your side and hold the responsible party accountable. 

📞 Contact the Reed Firm Today for a Free Consultation 

If you’ve suffered a workplace injury and believe someone other than your employer may be at fault, don’t settle for just workers’ comp. Let us help you explore your options for a third-party claim for workplace injury and fight for the compensation you truly deserve.
Reach out to the Reed Firm now for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.