San Antonio Work Injury Lawyers

Fighting For Work Accident Victims in Bexar County

Millions of workers are injured on the job each year, and thousands of workplace accidents result in severe injury and death. If you or someone you love has suffered an injury on the job, compensation may be available through the workers’ compensation system, a personal injury lawsuit, or both. 

At Alamo City Law Firm, we fight for workers in San Antonio and the surrounding areas. Turn to us for assistance in your case. We have the resources and skills necessary to relentlessly pursue the compensation you deserve. Tell us your story and find out how we can help you in a free consultation. 

Start with our San Antonio work injury attorneys by calling (726) 227-4766 or reaching out online. We can offer our services in Spanish.

Workers’ Compensation in Texas

Texas is the only state in the US that does not require private employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance. This does not mean you cannot seek compensation for injuries that your employer’s negligence caused. If your employer is a “nonsubscriber” (a business that does not subscribe to workers’ compensation insurance), you can file a personal injury claim against them. 

Of course, pursuing an injury claim against a nonsubscriber is complex. The process often involves multiple subrogation and reimbursement claims. These things make hiring a trusted San Antonio work injury lawyer, such as ours at Alamo City Law Firm, advantageous. 

What Does Workers’ Comp Cover?

Workers’ compensation benefits generally cover medical expenses and lost income. If your loved one passes away because of a workplace accident, the benefits may cover funeral expenses and provide some financial support. 

Understanding Third-Party Injury Claims in Texas

Unfortunately, workers’ compensation insurance may not provide the full benefits you need. Through a “third-party” claim, you could obtain additional compensation from a person or entity responsible for your injuries. It is important to note the “responsible party” cannot be your employer. 

As with other matters in accident injury law, third-party claims are complicated. You will have to navigate lien and right-of-reimbursement issues involving several parties. By partnering with an attorney, you can benefit from their know-how and advocacy during crucial legal processes. 

Common Causes of Work Injuries

Some common causes include the following:

• Slip and Fall Accidents: Slippery or uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and cluttered walkways can result in slips, trips, and falls, leading to severe injuries such as fractures, sprains, and head trauma.
• Repetitive Motion Injuries: Tasks that demand repetitive motions, like typing, lifting, or assembly line work, can cause injuries over time. Common repetitive motion injuries often include carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis.
• Machinery Accidents: Heavy machinery and equipment can pose significant risks. Workers can suffer severe injuries from being caught in, struck by, or crushed by machinery, often due to improper training, maintenance, or safety protocols.
• Exposure to Hazardous Substances: Workers in certain industries may be exposed to harmful chemicals, asbestos, or other toxic substances, which could lead to respiratory issues, skin conditions, and long-term health problems.
• Falling Objects: In workplaces like construction sites or warehouses, falling objects can cause head injuries, concussions, and other serious harm. Proper safety measures, like wearing helmets and securing materials, are crucial in preventing these accidents.
• Vehicle Accidents: Employees who drive as part of their job are at risk of vehicle accidents. These can result in severe injuries, including whiplash, broken bones, and spinal cord injuries.
• Workplace Violence: Physical assaults or other violent acts in the workplace could lead to both physical and psychological injuries. Ensuring a safe working environment and addressing potential threats promptly is essential.

What to Do After an Injury at Work

If you have been hurt at work, take the following steps:

• Seek medical attention. Your health and safety should come first. Follow all doctor’s orders and take necessary prescriptions. Be sure to also document the medical care you receive and related expenses.
• Notify your employer of the accident and injury. Create a written injury report and keep a copy of it for your records. You must notify your employer within 30 days of the accident or discovery of your injuries.
• File a workers’ compensation claim if you are able. You must file your claim with the Texas Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) within one year of your accident or discovery of your injuries.
• Consult a workplace injury lawyer. If you are concerned about whether you will receive adequate compensation or have questions about workers’ compensation, a lawyer can help. We offer free consultations, making it easy to determine if our firm is the right fit for you. 

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Work Injury Claim?

Workers injured on the job have the right to seek compensation. The types of damages that could be recovered in a work injury claim include:

• Medical Expenses: This often includes all expenses associated with medical treatment, such as hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and potential future expenses related to the injury.
• Lost Wages: Injuries can result in time away from work, leading to lost income. Compensation can cover wages lost during recovery and, in cases of long-term or permanent disability, future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Injuries often come with significant physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for the injury's physical discomfort and emotional impact.
• Disability and Disfigurement: If an injury results in permanent disability or disfigurement, additional compensation may be awarded to address the long-term impact on the worker’s quality of life and ability to earn a living.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Injured workers may need training or education to return to work or transition to a new job if they cannot return to their previous position.
• Loss of Consortium: In some cases, the spouse of an injured worker may be qualified for compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, and support resulting from the injury.
• Punitive Damages: In situations where the employer’s negligence was particularly egregious or intentional, punitive damages may be granted to punish the employer and prevent similar conduct.