Workers’ Compensation Attorneys In Beaumont Committed To Your Full Recovery
Texas stands alone as the only state that allows employers to opt out of traditional workers’ compensation programs. Instead, they can provide alternative occupational injury benefit plans. While this choice can be more cost-effective for companies, it unfortunately leaves workers vulnerable and often without adequate protection.
Our attorneys at Reaud, Morgan & Quinn, L.L.P., have been defending the rights of hardworking men and women in Beaumont and across Texas since 1976. We have a track record of success in some of the largest cases in the state, and we are deeply familiar with the challenges faced by workers in local industries. Whether your employer offers workers’ compensation or not, our attorneys are ready to fight for the financial support you need.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Benefits In Texas
When employers in Texas do subscribe to workers’ compensation, injured workers may be eligible for a combination of benefits, including:
- Medical benefits: Coverage for necessary medical treatment related to your work injury
- Income benefits: Payments to compensate for lost wages if you’re unable to work due to your injury
- Death benefits: Financial support for the families of workers who tragically die as a result of a work-related injury
Keep in mind that the exact coverage depends heavily on your employer’s specific policy. Workers’ compensation can address many types of injuries, such as (but not limited to) amputations, brain injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, hand and elbow injuries, hip injuries, leg injuries, neck and shoulder injuries, and spinal cord injuries. It can also cover pain and suffering from any work-related injury.
What Happens If Your Employers Do Not Offer Workers’ Compensation?
Even if an employer opts out of workers’ compensation, they still have certain responsibilities, such as:
- Filing with the state: Employers must file the proper forms with the Division of Workers’ Compensation at the Texas Department of Insurance to notify them of their decision to opt out
- Annual filings: Companies must file the required documents and forms when they initially opt out and annually for each year they continue to do so
- Employee notification: Employers must provide written notification to employees and post notices in the workplace to clearly communicate their decision not to offer workers’ compensation coverage
It also does not mean you are out of legal options. If you haven’t waived your right to sue, you may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim against them. This allows you to seek recovery for a wider range of damages, including all lost income, medical expenses and compensation for pain and suffering, among others.
How An Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help
If your employer does not subscribe to workers’ compensation, our attorneys can help you seek fair compensation in several crucial ways, including:
- Thoroughly investigating your case to determine how your workplace injury occurred
- Consulting with workplace safety professionals to assess if your employer adequately met safety standards
- Seeking a potential settlement to resolve your claim without going to court
- Aggressively litigating your case in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
- Ensuring that you properly receive all the compensation you are owed
If your workplace does offer workers’ compensation, we can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim with the appropriate department. In Texas, you generally have one year to file a workers’ compensation claim after your injury or the discovery of a work-related illness. We will protect your right to these benefits by making sure your claim is filed correctly and on time.
Injured At Work? Call Reaud, Morgan & Quinn, L.L.P., Today.
Texas workers’ comp laws are complicated. If your employer opted out, seeking justice can be even more overwhelming. Let our seasoned workers’ compensation attorneys take on the fight. We will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
Ready to discuss your options? Schedule a consultation with us today. Call (409) 838-1000 or send us a message through our online form.