Most people spend their waking hours at work, so it’s no surprise
they are more statistically likely to experience an accident on the job.
Likewise, the more dangerous the position is, the more likely an employee
is to suffer an injury while working.
However, many workers are also unprepared for how to deal with a workplace
injury. While a person injured by negligence could sue the responsible
party for damages, what resources do employees have?
Under federal and state laws, employees have the right to a safe work environment.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has many regulations
to make the workplace as safe for people as possible. However, when an
employer ignores these rules, you can choose one of two options—you
can either sue your employer or file for workers’ compensation benefits.
More often than not, this choice is made for you by your employer. Texas
offers employers the workers’ compensation program, which allows
workers to file for workers’ compensation and prevents them from
legally pursuing a personal injury case. However, if an employer opts
out of this program, you are allowed to pursue a
personal injury lawsuit because you can’t file for workers’ compensation.
If you file for workers’ compensation, you are eligible to receive
several benefits, including payment for medical expenses and lost wages.
However, unlike in a personal injury lawsuit, you can’t recover
anything more, such as pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life.
Talk to one of our skilled
Fort Worth workplace injuries attorneys about your case if you’re interested in which option you have the
right to pursue. In either case, you might need the assistance of a lawyer
to file a personal injury claim or help you appeal a denied workers’
compensation claim. Let us take a look at your situation and offer experienced
advice regarding your best course of legal action.
Contact us at (817) 591-4222 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case
consultation today.