About Workers’ Compensation in Texas
Texas doesn’t require employers to carry workers’ compensation coverage. Costs for coverage have declined 63% since 2005, in part due to the 28% reduction in employee claims. As such, more Texas businesses are offering coverage.
If your employer subscribes to workers’ compensation, this covers a limited amount of medical, income and death benefits. Other medical leave-related laws may be involved as well, including Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The State of Texas’ Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) oversees the administration of workers’ compensation along with the Office of Injured Employee Counsel (OIEC) and the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). Filers have the right to hire an attorney, choose the treating doctor, dispute resolutions and maintain confidentiality. This helpful checklist can help guide you through the workers’ compensation process.
About Third-Party Claims
A worker’s compensation claim may not be your only recourse for a work injury. If you’re injured on the job, there may be opportunities to claim compensation from a third-party. If someone other than your employer had a hand in your injuries, you may be able to pursue those persons/companies for compensation as well.
If you were injured while on the job, you may have a claim against a third party. Contact Doug Mena at 713-781-8600 or [email protected] for more information. As always, our consultations are free of charge.
http://www.twc.state.tx.us/news/efte/workers_compensation.html
