Our Dallas Work Injury Lawyer Can Help You Recover Compensation from a Non-Subscriber Employer
In Texas, employers can choose whether to subscribe to the state’s workers’ comp system or become “non-subscribers.” If you’ve been injured on the job, knowing which category your employer falls into is crucial—especially if you work for companies like Amazon, Wal-Mart, Home Depot, or others that may not subscribe is crucial. Our experienced Dallas work injury lawyer, Warren Armstrong, is here to guide you through the legal process and will work with you to recover the compensation you deserve.
How to Determine if Your Employer Is a Texas Non-Subscriber
Determining your employer's status regarding workers' compensation insurance is crucial if you have been injured on the job. Here are several ways to find out:
- Ask human resources. Your company's HR department should be able to provide this information readily. They are required by law to inform employees about the company's workers' compensation status.
- Check for posted notices. Texas law requires non-subscriber employers to post notices in the workplace informing employees of their status.
- Contact the Texas Department of Insurance. You can verify your employer's workers' compensation coverage status through the TDI's website or by contacting their division of workers' compensation.
- Review your employment contract. Read your employment agreement to check if it mentions the company's workers' compensation policy.
- Consult a Dallas work injury lawyer. If you're having trouble determining your employer's status, a knowledgeable Dallas work injury lawyer can help you investigate and understand your rights.
What It Means to Work for a Dallas Non-Subscriber Employer
When you work for a non-subscriber employer in Dallas, your path to compensation after a workplace injury differs significantly from those employed by subscribers.
No Access to Workers' Compensation Benefits
Non-subscriber employers in Texas do not provide traditional workers' compensation coverage. This means you won't automatically receive benefits like medical expense coverage or partial wage replacement, regardless of who was at fault for your injury.
The Right to Sue for Negligence
While losing access to workers' compensation benefits may seem like a disadvantage, it comes with a unique opportunity: the right to sue your employer for negligence. Unlike workers’ compensation, where benefits are capped, a lawsuit could potentially result in a larger payout.
Potential for Greater Compensation
If you win a lawsuit against a non-subscriber employer, you could recover more than just lost wages and medical costs. You might also receive compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and even punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence.
Steps to Take if You're Injured While Working for a Non-Subscriber in Dallas
If you’ve been hurt at work, there are steps to take and think your employer might be a non-subscriber, take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention. Your well-being is the most important thing. Seek medical help right away to address your injuries and get a professional evaluation. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan closely, as this not only supports your recovery but also strengthens your case by showing you took your injuries seriously.
- Report the injury. Let your employer know about your injury as soon as possible. Even if your company doesn’t have a workers' compensation program, they likely have their own procedures for reporting workplace injuries. Promptly reporting helps create an official record of the incident.
- Document everything. Keep a detailed record of everything related to your injury. This includes medical reports, bills, and any communications with your employer about the incident. Also, note down conversations with any witnesses who saw what happened. This documentation can be crucial if you need to prove the extent of your injuries or the circumstances of the accident.
- Avoid signing documents. Don’t rush into signing any forms or agreements from your employer, especially if they involve waivers or settlements. These documents can have significant implications for your case. It's best to consult with a lawyer who can help you understand the impact of any documents before you sign them.
- Seek legal guidance. Getting advice from a Dallas work injury lawyer can provide you with the guidance you need to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.
How a Dallas Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help With Your Non-Subscriber Case
If you're dealing with a workplace injury in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, it's essential to have an experienced work injury lawyer who understands Texas non-subscriber laws. Attorney Warren Armstrong will do the following to help with your work injury claim.
- Case evaluation. Our experienced attorney will thoroughly assess your situation. He'll help you understand your rights and options by carefully evaluating the strengths and potential challenges of your case.
- Investigation. We will dig deep into the accident that led to your injury, gathering evidence to show your employer's negligence and build a strong case for you.
- Negotiation. Many cases are settled out of court, and our lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
- Litigation. If negotiations don't lead to a fair outcome, your Dallas work injury lawyer will represent you in court, presenting a strong case for your rights.