Two firefighters from Fayette County, Ohio, lost their lives in an accident involving a mechanical lift at the Concord-Green Township Fire Department. The incident occurred around 11:05 a.m. when a call reported an overturned mechanical lift. The victims sustained fatal injuries while using the lift for repairs on a radio tower outside the firehouse. The lift tipped over, ejecting both firefighters, who were pronounced dead at the scene. An ongoing investigation by the Fayette County sheriff’s office is underway to determine the details of the accident.
On-the-job injuries and workers’ compensation
When you suffer an on-the-job injury, workers’ compensation is the most common legal recourse. Workers’ compensation is a system designed to provide financial assistance and medical benefits to employees who suffer injuries or illnesses while performing their job duties. This program is typically mandated by law, and it serves as a safety net, offering compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs and a portion of lost wages during recovery.
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning that employees are generally entitled to benefits regardless of who is at fault for the injury. This eliminates the need for lengthy legal battles to determine liability.
While the coverage may vary, workers’ compensation generally extends to injuries sustained in the course of employment, including accidents, occupational diseases and even pre-existing conditions aggravated by work.
In the unfortunate event of a work-related fatality, like the situation above, workers’ compensation also provides benefits to dependents.
Third-party liability
While workers’ compensation is a vital safety net, there are cases where injuries occur due to the negligence of a third party not directly connected to the employer or the injured worker. In such cases, pursuing a third-party liability claim is an option.
Third-party liability refers to the legal responsibility of someone other than the employer or the employee for a workplace injury. This could include manufacturers of faulty equipment, subcontractors or drivers involved in work-related accidents.
Filing a third-party liability claim allows the injured worker to seek additional compensation beyond what is provided by workers’ compensation. This can include damages for pain and suffering, lost earning capacity and more.
It’s important to note that an injured worker can pursue both workers’ compensation benefits and a third-party liability claim simultaneously. This dual approach allows for a more comprehensive recovery strategy—but not everyone will qualify for a third-party lawsuit. The Law Offices of Tim Misny can review your claim and guide you through your legal options.
Discuss your claim with an Ohio injury attorney today
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your workers’ compensation or personal injury claim. If you or a loved one were injured due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at 800-556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
