Getting hurt on the job can be a real nightmare. Not only is there the physical pain — and corresponding medical expenses — but for those who miss work due to their injuries there is also an added financial worry. This leaves many wondering just what their rights are and what to do next.
Texas is unique in the fact that not all employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage. This means the process to obtaining compensation can be even more confusing. However, it is important to remember that even though workers’ compensation may not be on the table, workers who are hurt on the job do have legal options.
In this post, we will focus on three of the top things to keep in mind after a work injury:
No. 1: Employers are not required to have workers’ compensation insurance
Unlike other states, there is no law requiring most private companies to carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage. For those hurt on the job, this means it is imperative to seek the counsel of an attorney with experience handling personal injury cases stemming from workplace accidents.
No. 2: There is push back against the current system in Texas
For example, the political director of the Texas AFL-CIO recently talked before the House Committee on Business and Industry. With continuing complaints coming in, the meeting was questioning the current system. At this meeting, the director did point out just how devastating the state’s law is to not only those workers who are hurt, but also the widows and widowers of those killed in workplace accidents.
While there is certainly no guarantee that any changes will come out of these types of meetings, it does highlight the fact that not everyone is happy with the current status quo.
No. 3: A personal injury lawsuit may lead to compensation
Even though there are plenty of people who want change to the current workers’ compensation system in Texas — or lack thereof — know that workers still have legal rights, including the right to hire an attorney.
At the Law Firm of Ted B. Lyon & Associates, we represent those hurt on the job. We handle all types of cases, including those stemming from slip-and-falls, construction accidents, chemical exposure and fatalities. We focus on the legalities of the situation, so the worker — or their family — can focus on healing.
