If I am injured at work, can I sue the company?

It depends on the situation. In the United States, most workplace accidents are covered by the workers’ compensation system, designed to provide medical and financial support to those injured on the job, including workers in the country on an L visa.

This system is typically mandatory for employers, and in exchange for these benefits, the worker generally gives up the right to sue the company in civil court for the same accident. There are exceptions: cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct by the employer may open the door to a lawsuit, sometimes alongside a compensation claim.

• Workers’ compensation is the primary avenue in most workplace accidents.
• Accepting these benefits typically limits the right to sue the company.
• Gross negligence or intentional misconduct by the employer may be an exception.

The rules vary by state and each case requires its own analysis. Because legal decisions can affect immigration status, it is best to consult an attorney who is well-versed in both workers’ compensation and immigration law before taking action.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.