THE TEXAS ECONOMY LEADS THE NATION IN JOB CREATION, BUT THE MAJORITY OF TEXAS WORKERS LACK ADEQUATE PROTECTION AGAINST WORKPLACE INJURIES.
According to an investigative piece in the Texas Tribune, the state leads the nation in worker deaths for 7 of the last 10 years. Texas also has the distinction of being the only state that doesn’t require private employers to carry workers’ comp insurance, which pays for workplace injuries.
Key findings of the Texas Tribune include:
- Over 500,000 workers have no insurance coverage if they are injured or killed.
- Almost half of workers’ comp claims are denied or disputed
- Occupational insurance plans aren’t regulated by the state and can be written to drastically limit employee benefits.
- The vast majority of employers without workers’ comp plans don’t inform the state of their opt-out status.
- 1 in 4 employers without workers’ comp plans underreport injuries.
Other Options for Injured Texas Workers
Many injured workers have options in addition to workers’ compensation. For example, a worker can file a “third party claim” when an injury is caused by then negligent acts of a third party. Workers may also be able to negotiate for a higher insurance payment when they are represented by an attorney.
It is important to report an workplace injuries to your employer immediately, but not to talk to insurance company representatives or sign insurance documents until you speak with an experienced workplace injury law firm.