What are the potential benefits that I may be eligible for if my workers' compensation claim is accepted?

If your workers' compensation claim in Texas is accepted, you may be eligible for the following key benefits:

1. Medical Expenses:

   • Workers' compensation will cover all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to your work-injury, including:

     • Doctor visits

     • Hospital stays and procedures

     • Prescription medications

     • Physical therapy

     • Medical equipment (e.g., crutches, wheelchairs)

   • You have the right to choose your own treating doctor, though the insurance carrier may require an initial visit with one of their approved providers.

2. Income Replacement Benefits:

   • Temporary Income Benefits (TIBs): If your injury causes you to miss more than 7 days of work, you'll receive weekly tax-free payments equal to 70% of your pre-injury average weekly wage, up to state maximums.

   • Impairment Income Benefits (IIBs): If you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) with a permanent impairment rating of at least 1%, you'll receive income benefits based on your impairment rating.

   • Supplemental Income Benefits (SIBs): If you have a 15% or greater impairment rating and have lost 80% or more of your pre-injury wages, you may qualify for monthly SIBs payments.

   • Lifetime Income Benefits (LIBs): For the most catastrophic, permanently disabling injuries, you may qualify for lifetime weekly payments equal to 100% of your pre-injury average weekly wage.

3. Vocational Rehabilitation:

   • The insurance carrier may provide vocational rehabilitation services to help you return to work, either with your employer or a new job, if your injury prevents you from performing your previous duties.

   • This can include job retraining, assistive devices, and job placement assistance.

4. Death Benefits:

   • If your work-related injury results in your death, your surviving spouse, children, or other dependents may be eligible for death and burial benefits through workers' compensation.

The specific benefits you receive will depend on the details of your injury, your pre-injury earnings, the severity of your impairment, and your ability to return to work. Working closely with an experienced workers' compensation attorney can help ensure you maximize the benefits you're entitled to.