Texas Workers’ Compensation: A Guide to Filing a Claim
Getting hurt at work can throw your entire life off balance. One day you’re clocking in like usual, and the next you’re facing doctor visits, time off the job, and a pile of questions about what comes next. For many Texas workers, filing a workers’ compensation claim feels confusing and more stressful than it needs to be.
The truth is, the system isn’t always easy to understand. Knowing what steps to take, what deadlines matter, and what benefits you’re entitled to can make all the difference. This guide breaks it all down into simple, clear steps so you can feel more in control of the process.
And if it all still feels like too much, you’re not alone. Speaking with a knowledgeable Texas workers compensation lawyer can give you the support and direction you need right now. S. McCorquodale P.C. helps injured workers across Texas get the benefits they’re owed—without the stress.
What Texas Workers’ Compensation Really Covers
For many workers in Texas, the idea of workers’ compensation only becomes real after an injury happens. Until then, it’s easy to overlook. But knowing what it actually includes can help you feel more prepared if the unexpected happens.
Texas workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides medical treatment and income benefits to employees who get hurt or sick while doing their jobs. It can apply to all kinds of situations, from a sudden accident on the job to a long-term condition caused by repetitive motion or toxic exposure.
If your employer participates in the workers’ comp system, and many do, you may be entitled to support that covers your medical care, lost wages, and even some help returning to work if needed. It’s meant to help you recover physically and financially, without having to prove that anyone was at fault.
Keep in mind, not every situation is covered. Injuries that happen off the clock, or because of reckless behavior, may not qualify. But if your injury happened while you were doing your regular job duties, there’s a strong chance you’re eligible for benefits.
Is Your Injury Covered by Texas Workers Compensation?
When you get hurt at work, one of the first things you probably wonder is whether your injury qualifies for benefits. In Texas, it all depends on how the injury happened and what you were doing at the time.
If you were doing your usual job duties and got injured in the process, there is a good chance your claim will be covered. That includes accidents like falling on a wet floor, hurting your back while lifting, or getting burned while cooking in a restaurant kitchen. It also includes injuries that develop slowly over time, like wrist pain from constant typing or joint issues caused by heavy lifting.
On the other hand, if your injury happened during a personal errand, while playing around, or because you were not following safety rules, you might not be eligible. Some claims also get denied if there is no clear link between the injury and your job.
These rules are not always easy to figure out on your own. Every case has its own details, and that is where it helps to get professional advice. A lawyer who handles workers compensation cases in Texas can look at your situation and help you understand if you qualify and what your next step should be.
What You Should Do Right After Getting Hurt at Work
Getting injured on the job can be a shock. Whether it is something sudden like a fall or a slower injury that builds over time, the way you respond in the moments and days after can really shape what happens next.
First, let your boss or supervisor know what happened. Do not wait. Even if it seems like no big deal, say something right away. In Texas, you typically have thirty days to report a work-related injury, but the sooner you speak up, the better. A quick report can help avoid problems down the line.
Next, see a doctor. If your job has a specific health care network, you might need to visit someone from their list. Otherwise, you can usually pick your own doctor. Just make sure to tell them that the injury happened at work so they document it clearly.
It is also smart to gather anything that might back up your side of the story. Take a few pictures if it makes sense. Jot down what happened while it is still fresh. If anyone saw the incident, get their name in case you need their help later.
These steps might seem simple, but missing just one could make it harder to get benefits. If you are not sure what to do or feel unsure about the process, it is a good idea to talk to a lawyer who handles workers compensation in Texas. They can walk you through it and help you stay on track.
Speak With a Texas Workers Compensation Lawyer
If you have been hurt at work, you should not have to handle the process alone. Texas workers compensation law can be confusing, and missing a single step might delay the help you need. That is why it is so important to have someone on your side who understands how the system works.
At S. McCorquodale P.C., we help injured workers across Texas get the benefits they are entitled to. We are here to answer your questions, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights.