In some cases, however, an injury is caused by someone who isn’t the employee or the employer. For example, a delivery driver may be injured in a car crash caused by a drunk driver. An employee may be injured if a hidden defect in a tool or piece of equipment causes harm.
These claims are called “third-party” claims because they involve someone who isn’t an injured employee or their employer. Workers’ compensation doesn’t prevent you from seeking compensation from a third party if that third party is at fault for your injuries.