Texas is the only state that does not mandate employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance. Employers that do not offer worker’s compensation insurance are sometimes referred to as “non-subscribers.” Because of the “non-subscriber” rule, these types of cases can be complicated.
Many people are surprised at how common it is in Texas for their employer to not offer workers compensation. They are equally surprised to find out how difficult it can be to recoup damages when workplace accidents occur. Were you hurt on the job in Houston? You need an attorney. We urge you to contact Magenheim Zehnder Law Firm for a free consultation. Our attorneys are ready to help. We will make sure your rights as an employee are protected. We aid clients when their employer does not have workers’ compensation coverage.
Overview of Non-Subscriber Cases
In the state of Texas, your employer may subscribe to the state’s workers’ compensation system. They may also choose to opt out of workers’ compensation and operate as a non-subscriber. Non-subscribers usually choose this option because the cost of workers’ compensation can be high.
What if my Employer is a Non-Subscriber?
If you were injured on the job and your company is a non-subscriber, that does not mean you are left unprotected. In fact, employees of non-subscribers are generally afforded the same level of compensation as those that subscribe to workers’ compensation.
Workplace Injury Laws in Houston
It is vital that you understand your rights as an employee in Houston, TX. If you are injured on the job, you have fundamental rights. Laws are in place to protect you. They allow you to seek fair compensation. This compensation includes medical coverage and wage replacement. Some of the basic rights of employees in Texas include:
- Right to a safe workplace
- Right to report workplace injuries, no matter how minor they may seem, without fear of retribution
- Right to be protected against retaliation
Common Causes of Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries are a common occurrence. There are numerous types and causes of workplace injuries. No matter what type of work you do, a workplace injury is a potential threat. Unfortunately, these injuries lead to medical bills, loss of wages, and other financial burdens. This puts a strain on injured workers and their families. Here are some of the more frequently occurring workplace injuries in Texas:
- Slip and fall injuries
- Injuries caused by overexertion and lack of rest
- Work-related car accidents
- Object impact injuries
- Burns
- Workplace violence
- Repetitive motion injuries
Types of Compensation Available
Your employer may not have workers’ compensation insurance. This is common in Texas. Non-subscriber cases are an area of expertise for Magenheim Zehnder Law Firm. Whether you were involved in a slip-and-fall, equipment malfunction, or other incident, Magenheim Zehnder Law Firm can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve. The types of compensation available in non-subscriber cases include payment of medical expenses, compensation of lost wages, and restitution for pain and emotional distress.
Benefits of Hiring a Houston Law Firm
The primary benefit of hiring a Houston law firm for workplace injuries is their expertise in this area of law. They understand the intricacies involved in non-subscriber cases.. Our experienced team of attorneys understands the complexities surrounding non-subscriber cases.
FAQs
How do I Know if my Employer has Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
By law, every company in the state of Texas must post a placard reflecting the status of their workers’ compensation insurance. The placard must be in a conspicuous location. It should contain the name, address and phone number of their workers’ comp insurance carrier. If your company is vague about this information, contact Magenheim Zehnder Law Firm. We can help you figure out what, if any, workers’ compensation insurance they carry.
If I Know my Employer is a Non-Subscriber and I get Hurt on the Job, What Should I do First?
The first thing you should do is alert your supervisor or the owner of the company. Let them know about your injury. Even if the injury seems small, you must alert your company. After you alert your employer or supervisor, then you should call Magenheim Zehnder Law Firm.
How Long do I Have to File a Non-Subscriber Case in Texas?
In Texas, you have two years to file a personal injury claim. This includes a non-subscriber claim. There are some aspects to be aware of that could impact the timeline. In general, it is best not to wait. Delaying makes it more difficult to win your case.
- Your employer could have required you to sign an arbitration agreement. This may change the timeline in your case.
- The more time that passes after the injury, the more apt you could be to forget certain details of the case. It is crucial for non-subscribers to document every aspect of the injury. They should seek legal assistance to ensure that they receive the compensation they deserve.
The attorneys at Magenheim Zehnder Law Firm offer free consultations for non-subscriber cases. We could save you thousands in lost compensation.
How Serious Does an Injury Need to be to Make a Non-Subscriber Claim?
To file a non-subscriber or workplace injury claim, you should incur some level of damages that are directly related to the injury. Did you miss time at work? Were you in the hospital? Do you have medical bills from the injury? Workplace safety is a serious topic. If you are injured on the job, Magenheim Zehnder Law Firm is here to help. We help clients with or without workers’ compensation insurance.
Call MZ Law For a Free Consultation and to Get the Legal Help You Need
The attorneys at Magenheim Zehnder Law Firm are ready to help. Just call (713)529-1700 for a free consultation. You will see how our attorneys can help lead you through the complex legal issues.