When someone is injured on-the-job, they may be eligible to file a workers' compensation claim. This system of benefits is designed to cover medical expenses and lost wages for employees who have been hurt or become ill as a result of their work activity. However, in some cases, the employee may also be able to pursue additional damages such as pain and suffering (which is not covered under workers compensation benefits) through a personal injury lawsuit against a third party (that is not their employer), such as a negligent subcontractor or manufacturer of a defective product.