Steps and Deadlines for Reporting Texas Workplace Injuries

An injury at work can happen in seconds. One moment you are focused on the task in front of you, and the next you are trying to figure out what just happened and what you should do next. In Texas, knowing exactly when and how to report a workplace injury can make the difference between securing your benefits and losing important legal rights.

If you have been injured on the job, you do not have to figure this out alone.  S. McCorquodale P.C. helps workers across Texas navigate these rules and deadlines so they can focus on recovery. Call today for a confidential consultation to learn your options and protect your claim.

Why Prompt Reporting of Texas Workplace Injuries Matters

Texas law sets strict rules for how workplace injuries must be reported. These rules protect both you and your employer by creating a clear record of what happened and when. Missing a deadline can cause your benefits to be delayed or denied altogether.

In addition to state law, your employer may have its own internal policies for reporting injuries. Following both sets of rules is important to make sure your case starts off on the right foot.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reporting a Workplace Injury in Texas

The process of reporting an injury in Texas has several steps, each with its own deadline and documentation requirements. Taking these steps in the right order when filing a claim can help protect your case and keep the process moving without unnecessary delays.

Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately

Your health comes first. Even if your injury seems minor, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Many injuries are more serious than they first appear, and medical records are a critical part of proving that your injury was work-related. When you see the doctor, explain exactly how the injury happened and that it occurred while you were at work.

Step 2: Notify Your Employer Within 30 Days

Texas law requires you to notify your employer within 30 days of the date of the injury. If your injury developed over time, such as repetitive strain or an occupational illness, the 30 days start when you first knew or should have known that the condition was work-related.

It is best to give notice in writing. Keep a copy for your records and be as specific as possible about the date, time, place, and circumstances of your injury. Even if you tell your supervisor in person, follow up with written notice.

Step 3: File Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Within One Year

If your employer carries workers’ compensation insurance, you must file a claim with the Texas Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). This is done using form DWC-041. You have one year from the date of the injury to file the claim.

Filing with the DWC is separate from notifying your employer. Both steps are required. Waiting too long to file can permanently affect your right to benefits.

Step 4: Keep Detailed Records of Your Case

Keep copies of everything you send or receive regarding your injury. This includes your injury report, claim forms, medical bills, prescriptions, and any correspondence with your employer or insurance company. Detailed records make it easier to resolve disputes and help your attorney build a stronger case.

Step 5: Follow Up on the Progress of Your Claim

After your claim is filed, monitor its progress. If you receive notices from the insurance company or the DWC, respond promptly. If your claim is denied or your benefits are delayed, speak with an attorney right away to discuss your legal options.

Texas Workers’ Compensation Deadlines You Need to Know

• 30 Days: Notify your employer of your injury or work-related illness.
  
• 1 Year: File the DWC-041 claim form with the Texas Division of Workers’ Compensation.
  

Some exceptions exist for occupational illnesses, injuries with delayed symptoms, and claims involving minors. An attorney can help you determine if one of these applies to your situation.

Common Mistakes That Can Put a Texas Workers’ Comp Claim at Risk

Many claims fail because of avoidable errors. Some of the most common include:

• Delaying medical care, which can make it harder to prove the injury was work-related
  
• Giving only verbal notice without any written proof
  
• Leaving out certain injuries or symptoms when making the initial report
  
• Missing the filing deadlines set by Texas law
  

Avoiding these mistakes often comes down to acting promptly and documenting everything from the start.

What to Do if Your Employer Does Not Have Workers’ Compensation Insurance

In Texas, employers are not always required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer is a “non-subscriber,” you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit instead of a workers’ compensation claim. These cases can be more complex but can also allow you to recover damages that workers’ comp does not cover.

An experienced Texas workplace injury attorney can explain your options and take the steps needed to protect your rights in either situation.

How S. McCorquodale P.C. Protects Texas Injured Workers

Workplace injury claims in Texas involve strict rules, short timelines, and complicated paperwork. S. McCorquodale P.C. understands how stressful it can be to recover from an injury while trying to handle legal deadlines. The firm works closely with injured workers to make sure every required step is completed on time and every opportunity for recovery is pursued.

Protect Your Rights Before the Deadline Passes

After a workplace injury, the clock starts ticking. Waiting too long to act can mean losing benefits you deserve. By getting medical care right away, notifying your employer within 30 days, and filing your workers’ compensation claim within one year, you give yourself the strongest possible chance of a successful outcome.

If you have been injured at work anywhere in Texas, you should not have to face the process alone. Contact S. McCorquodale P.C. today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and securing the benefits you need.