If you are injured by faulty machinery at work, get medical attention immediately. Next, notify your employer, as you could have grounds for a workers’ compensation claim. In addition, consult with an Atlanta work injury lawyer who could help you hold the machine manufacturer or another third party liable.
Our team has proudly served plaintiffs in personal injury cases for more than 25 years. If you are unsure of what to do if you get injured by faulty machinery at work, we are here to assist you in any way we can. Contact us to get started.
Liability if I am Injured by Faulty Machinery at Work
Your employer can be liable for a workplace injury caused by faulty machinery. It is reasonable to expect your employer to maintain machinery and make sure it works properly. If your employer ignores this obligation and you get hurt while using defective machinery, you could seek compensation from your employer for your medical bills and other losses you incur.
A manufacturer, contractor, or another third party can also be liable. To determine if this is the case, ask for legal help. An attorney who has experience with Georgia work injury claims can identify any parties liable for your workplace injury and help you seek damages accordingly.
At John Foy & Associates, we prioritize your work injury case. We can explain what to do if you are injured as a result of faulty machinery at work and prepare an argument designed to help you get maximum damages. Schedule a free case consultation with us.
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Treating Injuries Caused by Faulty Machinery at Work
You may be worried about how you will cover the costs of treating injuries caused by faulty machinery at work. As you receive medical care, keep track of your bills. You may use these as proof to show you deserve compensation for your medical expenses.
If you file a workers’ compensation claim, your employer may have discretion about which healthcare providers can treat your injuries. If this is the case, it may be best to receive care from these providers. However, you still have the option to request an independent medical evaluation.
In a situation where you file a lawsuit against a third party, your lawyer can calculate your medical expenses. Your attorney will account for your current and future medical costs. They will encourage you to continue to get medical care while they work diligently to help you secure damages.
How Much Time You Have to Request Compensation If I Am Injured by Defective Machinery at Work
Per the workers’ compensation law FAQs from Georgia’s State Board of Workers’ Compensation, you should report a workplace accident and injury to your employer within 30 days. Choosing not to do so can hurt your chances of getting workers’ comp benefits. Your employer could use your decision to wait to file your benefits request to contest your claim.
The statute of limitations for a personal injury lawsuit is two years. This means you may have up to two years from the date you get hurt by faulty machinery at work to sue a third party for damages. After this window closes, you may be 100% liable for your injury-related losses.
Rather than risk missing your opportunity to secure workers’ compensation benefits, file an injury lawsuit, or both, meet with a lawyer to review your legal options. Your attorney can explain these options in detail. They can help you pursue economic and non-economic damages.
Damages You Can Request Due to an Injury Caused by Faulty Machinery at Work
You may be able to get economic and non-economic damages for your quantifiable and subjective losses. The damages you recover are based on how badly you were hurt and other factors. Here are some of the reasons why a judge or jury may award damages due to your workplace injury caused by faulty machinery:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment
Your lawyer can provide insights into general vs. special damages in personal injury cases. They will account for the losses you have already incurred and consider how your injury will affect you moving forward. On top of this, they will build a case that makes it clear you are not responsible for your injury.
Evidence You Can Use to Prove I Was Injured Due to Defective Machinery at My Job
Saying you were injured by defective machinery at work is not enough to recover compensation from any liable parties. Ultimately, your body of proof can make or break your case against any liable parties. Evidence you can use to support your case includes:
- Medical records
- Pay stubs
- Witness statements
- Photos and videos of the defective machinery
Your lawyer considers your evidence carefully. If you have a wealth of proof, your attorney could prove a liable party was negligent, which could help you secure adequate compensation. Your evidence may compel a liable party to open settlement negotiations.
What to Do if You Receive a Settlement After You Are Injured by Faulty Machinery at Your Job
You could get a settlement offer that, at first glance, appears fair. Before you approve the proposal, discuss it with your lawyer. This gives you the opportunity to share any concerns or questions you have about the offer and hear what your attorney has to say about the proposal.
If your lawyer believes a settlement offer is less than what you deserve, they will let you know. Regardless, your attorney is your legal advisor, and they will not decide on the offer for you. You make the final decision on a settlement and should weigh the pros and cons of every option.
You should not accept a settlement proposal unless you are satisfied with it. If a settlement falls short of what you want, decline it. From here, your attorney can keep negotiating on your behalf.
Partner with a Work Injury Lawyer Who Will Protect Your Legal Rights
John Foy & Associates can help those who were injured as a result of faulty machinery at work.
Our team is available to speak with you about your case and help you determine the best course of action. Request a free case consultation with us.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
