The short answer to the question “Can I sue my employer?” is no.
In Minnesota, if a person is injured on the job, their exclusive remedy is the workers’ compensation system. This means that while you can file a work comp claim, you generally cannot file a civil lawsuit against your employer for negligence. However, there are limited situations where you may be able to pursue a separate claim if someone other than your employer contributed to your injury.
For example, if you slipped in a puddle of oil while entering your workplace and the building is owned or maintained by someone other than your employer, you might have a negligence claim against the building’s owner. Similarly, if you are not legally classified as an employee — for instance, if you’re an independent contractor — you may have grounds to bring a separate civil claim. These third-party claims typically require proof of negligence, which can be challenging, since an accident alone does not necessarily mean someone was legally at fault. By contrast, Minnesota workers’ compensation benefits do not require proof of negligence.
Too often, injured workers struggle to move forward because they focus on fault and blame. In the workers’ compensation system, fault rarely comes into play. While this may not feel fair, it’s the legal framework we must work within. The best outcomes usually come from focusing on what you can control — such as getting proper medical care, following claim procedures, and seeking experienced legal guidance when needed.