Every year, millions of employees suffer from work-related injuries. In Texas, employers are not required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. However, if you are injured on the job, you still have the right to seek compensation, whether or not your employer provides workers’ compensation coverage.
If your employer carries workers’ compensation insurance, you must follow the claims process outlined by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) to receive benefits. If your employer does not have workers’ compensation, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit with the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer. At Austin Lawyer Referral Service, we connect injured workers with experienced attorneys to assist with filing claims or lawsuits to obtain compensation.
Report Your Injury
The first step after a workplace injury is to report it to your employer immediately, regardless of whether they have workers’ compensation insurance. In Texas, you must notify your employer within 30 days of the accident. Your report should include key details like the date, time, and nature of the incident. If you fail to provide timely notice, you could lose your right to claim benefits related to the injury.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
When your employer has workers’ compensation coverage, you must file an Employee’s Claim for Compensation for a Work-Related Injury or Occupational Disease through the Texas Department of Insurance’s Division of Workers’ Compensation. In Texas, you typically have one year from the date of the accident or from the date you discovered a work-related illness to file your claim.
Since workers’ compensation is a type of insurance, claims are sometimes denied, delayed, or limited by the insurer. For example, you might be asked to return to work before your doctor says it is safe. That’s why consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney can be critical to gathering evidence and building a strong case. A lawyer will review your situation and ensure that you recover all the benefits you are entitled to receive, including medical expenses, wage loss, and disability payments.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If your employer does not carry workers’ compensation insurance, or if your injuries resulted from a third party’s negligence, you may need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. A skilled attorney can help you recover damages, such as compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and other losses.
Get Legal Assistance
If you have been injured at work, our referral service connects you with experienced attorneys ready to advocate for your rights. They can assist with workers’ compensation claims or personal injury lawsuits, ensuring you receive compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and more. Contact Austin Lawyer Referral Service today to schedule a free consultation!
