When New Mexico workers get hurt on the job, our state’s workers’ compensation system is designed to provide benefits to cover the cost of medical treatment and some, but not all, of your lost income. However, as anyone who has been seriously injured knows, the aftermath of a serious accident makes itself felt in ways that aren’t so easily reflected on bills, invoices, or paystubs.
The pain, suffering, and mental anguish that can accompany and follow an injury can be just as real, and just as debilitating and serious, as any other aspect of the injury. I often get asked by clients whether workers’ compensation benefits include compensation for the anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, inconvenience, discomfort and ongoing pain experienced as the result of a workplace injury.
The answer, sadly, is that compensation for “pain and suffering” is not available under New Mexico’s – or any other state’s — workers’ compensation scheme. However, that does not necessarily mean that recovering compensation for pain and suffering is entirely out of the question.
In some cases, work-related injuries are caused by defective products or the negligence of someone other than an employer or another employee. In those cases, it may be possible to file a civil lawsuit against the third party responsible for your accident in addition to your worker’s compensation claim.
In all circumstances, you should consult with an experienced New Mexico workers’ compensation attorney to understand your rights and to ensure that you receive the maximum workers’ compensation benefits available under New Mexico law.
The Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Brown: Fighting for New Mexico Workers
We know how hard you work, and we’ll work just as hard for you. Call the Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Brown & Derek Thompson today at (505) 275-6600 or fill out our online form to arrange for your free initial consultation to discuss your workers’ compensation matter. We look forward to helping you get back on your feet, and back to work.
This website has been prepared by the Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Brown for informational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice from an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.