Understanding Your Rights After a Workplace Injury in Indiana
If you’ve been injured on the job, one of the first questions you might have is: “Can I sue my employer?” At Stewart & Stewart, we get this question all the time—and the answer depends on how Indiana’s workers’ compensation laws apply to your situation.
You Usually Can’t Sue—But You Can File a Workers’ Comp Claim
In Indiana, most on-the-job injuries are handled through the Workers’ Compensation system. That means rather than suing your employer for negligence, you file a workers’ comp claim to receive compensation for things like medical bills and lost wages. This system is designed to protect both employees and employers—but it also has very specific rules and deadlines.
You Might Actually Have Two Claims
Here’s where it can get more complex: If you were hurt at work because of someone else’s negligence—like in a car accident while driving a company vehicle—you may have both a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. Each claim follows its own process, and it’s important to handle them in the right order to avoid jeopardizing your compensation.
Why You Shouldn’t Handle It Alone
Workers’ compensation laws in Indiana are controlled by statute—including how much attorneys can charge. But there are many pitfalls if you try to manage things yourself. Paperwork, medical evaluations, and employer communication can get complicated fast.
That’s where we come in. At Stewart & Stewart, we’re here to guide you through every step and make sure you get everything you’re entitled to. If you’ve been injured at work, give us a call. We’ll make sure your rights are protected from day one.