Seeking Compensation for Work-Related Broken Bone Injuries in Las Vegas
In a bustling city like Las Vegas, workers across a variety of industries are susceptible to work-related injuries, including broken bones. Whether it’s a construction site mishap, a fall from a height, or a heavy object accident, broken bones can be debilitating, leaving workers unable to perform their jobs and facing substantial medical bills. Fortunately, in Nevada, injured workers have two primary avenues for compensation: filing a workers’ compensation claim or, in certain cases, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
At Mainor Ellis, we understand the complexities surrounding these claims and work to ensure that injured workers receive the full compensation they deserve. Here’s a closer look at how you can seek compensation for work-related broken bone injuries in Las Vegas.
Workers’ Compensation: A No-Fault System
Nevada’s workers’ compensation system is designed to provide immediate medical and wage benefits to employees injured on the job, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. For broken bone injuries, this typically means that workers can receive coverage for:
- Medical expenses (including surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment)
- Temporary or permanent disability benefits
- Lost wages during the recovery period
- Vocational rehabilitation if the injury impacts your ability to perform your job
One of the advantages of workers’ compensation is that it operates on a no-fault basis. This means that even if your own actions contributed to the injury (as long as you weren’t under the influence of drugs or alcohol), you’re still entitled to benefits. However, the downside is that workers’ compensation does not cover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, which can be a significant factor in severe broken bone injuries.
When Workers’ Compensation Isn’t Enough
In some cases, workers can pursue a third-party personal injury lawsuit in addition to or instead of a workers’ compensation claim. This typically applies when someone other than your employer—such as a subcontractor, vendor, or equipment manufacturer—is responsible for the injury.
For instance, if you suffered broken bones in a construction accident due to defective equipment, you could file a personal injury lawsuit against the equipment manufacturer. Unlike workers’ compensation, personal injury lawsuits allow you to seek compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Future lost wages (if your injury results in long-term disability)
While personal injury claims can potentially provide more comprehensive compensation than workers’ compensation, they require proving negligence. This can involve a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident, gathering evidence, and often, expert testimony to establish liability.
Maximizing Your Compensation
If you’ve sustained a broken bone injury while on the job, the best strategy is to explore both options—workers’ compensation and third-party claims. In some cases, you may be able to receive workers’ compensation benefits while simultaneously pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against a negligent third party.
However, it’s crucial to act quickly. Nevada’s workers’ compensation laws require that you report your injury to your employer as soon as possible and file a claim within 90 days. Additionally, personal injury lawsuits are subject to a two-year statute of limitations. Missing these deadlines can severely limit your ability to recover damages.
Reach Out to Our Office Today
Broken bone injuries can have long-lasting impacts on your ability to work and your quality of life. If you’ve suffered a work-related injury in Las Vegas, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options. Whether through workers’ compensation or a personal injury lawsuit, Mainor Ellis can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact our Las Vegas Broken Bone Injuries Attorneys today to discuss your case and get the experienced legal support you need.
Source:
leg.state.nv.us/nrs/nrs-616A.html
