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What Is a Third-Party Claim?

Third-Party Personal Injury Claims
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Personal injury lawsuits and other related claims often appear relatively straightforward – a victim pursues a financial claim against a negligent party. But many people don’t always realize that such a claim could require the involvement of a third party. The actions of an individual or company may be responsible for causing injury, but a third party (insurance companies, product manufacturers, employers and others) can be liable for damages. At Joe Knows Law in McKinney, we are here to help you better understand a third-party claim.

Understanding Third-Party Personal Injury Claims

When you have been injured or suffered damages in some way, you will bring a lawsuit against the party who is responsible. However, sometimes there are multiple parties who share some part of the responsibility. This is when a third-party claim is made. Attorney Joe Lucé always wants our clients to understand every aspect of their case. If you have a question regarding a possible third-party claim in your particular situation, this is best shared with your attorney.

Third-Party Claims Defined

Many people think of lawsuits as linear, where there is only a plaintiff and a defendant. However, third party claims are often made to include other parties such as insurance companies, car manufacturers, or other possible responsible parties. This helps those who are injured get the compensation they need to settle their damages, while also making it fair to those who maybe aren’t responsible for 100% of those damages, or have insurance to help cover in these circumstances.

First-Party vs. Third-Party Claims

A first-party claim is made between an insurance company and a policyholder, and they do not include another party. Third-party claims are made by those who are not a policyholder. This means the policyholder is also named in the lawsuit and the insurance company would be a third-party in the claim.

Some Examples of Third-Party Liability

The following are just some of the cases that may involve a third-party claim.

  • An auto accident involving a negligent trucking company.
  • A fatality involving a defective product – see more terms to know about wrongful death here.
  • A landlord who endangers the lives of tenants through negligence.
  • If a bystander is injured or killed by a malfunctioning product.

Talk to an Attorney

In order to file a third-party claim, you will need assistance from an experienced attorney. Part of a lawyer’s job is to ensure you have named everyone you need to in your claim in order to get a fair settlement. Failure to name all the parties in your claim can result in not receiving the compensation you deserve.

The Main Types of Compensation in a Third-Party Personal Injury Claim

The circumstances of the accident and the consequences for the victim will influence the damages that can be recovered from litigation. Encompassing both economic and non-economic elements, the following types of compensation are received most often.

  • Medical bills
  • Loss of income and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Physical Disfigurement
  • Loss of Consortium

In addition, if the victim loses their life, close relatives could file a third-party wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent individual’s insurer or another responsible party. With the help of a wrongful death lawyer, relatives may receive damages for financial losses, loss of household services, funeral expenses and other related damages.

Personal Injury Attorney for Third-Party Claims in McKinney

Joe Lucé is an established personal injury attorney providing nearly four decades of legal representation in North Texas. When you need help with an auto accident, workplace injury, slip and fall or personal injury claim, contact us today. Call (972) 632-1300 or request a free legal consultation.

Legal Practice Areas

Joe Lucé represents individuals dealing with the repercussions of personal injuries, auto accidents, slip and fall injuries and wrongful death.
Personal Injury

Personal Injury

Our experience dealing with personal injury claims means we know how to get results.

wrongful Death attorney

Wrongful Death

The loss of a loved one is compounded when it’s the result of wrongful death.

Slip and Fall Injuries

Slip and Fall Injuries

Slip and fall accidents occur regularly in commercial buildings, workplaces, stores and malls.

Auto Accidents

Auto Accidents

Auto accidents are frequently preventable, with distracted drivers, vehicle malfunctions and other conditions to blame.