The rule also applies to family members of the injured employee; the rule bars them from filing loss of consortium or derivative tort suits, such as a wrongful death claim, against the employer. TORT LAWSUITS AGAINST CO-EMPLOYEESThe rule protects not only the employer from personal injury lawsuits, but also co-workers. Further, the exception does not apply if the employer merely engages in negligence, gross negligence, or wilful disregard of safety standards. THIRD-PARTY CONTRIBUTION CLAIMSA negligent third party sued in tort by an injured employee cannot seek contribution or fault-sharing from the employer. MPW asked the court to throw out the case, arguing that all claims were barred by the exclusive remedy provision.