What Happens When an Employee is Injured at Work in Texas?

When an employee is injured at work in Texas, there are certain steps and procedures that need to be followed to ensure their well-being and protect their rights. In this blog post, we will outline what happens when an employee is injured at work in Texas and provide information on the workers' compensation program.

Workers' Compensation in Texas

Workers' compensation is an insurance program managed by the State of Texas. It provides pay and medical benefits to employees who have a work-related injury or illness. While not all Texas employers are required to provide workers' compensation insurance, the majority do.

Workers' compensation benefits are designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs for employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. These benefits are typically provided regardless of who was at fault for the accident or injury.

Reporting the Injury

When an employee is injured at work, it is crucial to report the injury to their employer as soon as possible. The injured employee or someone on their behalf should notify their supervisor or manager about the incident and provide details of the injury.

Employers are required to provide employees with a workers' compensation claim form within one working day of receiving notice of the injury. The injured employee should complete the form and return it to their employer within 30 days of the injury.

Medical Treatment

Once the injury has been reported, the injured employee should seek necessary medical treatment. In Texas, employers have the right to choose the doctor who will provide medical care for the injured employee. However, if the employer does not have a designated doctor, the injured employee may choose their own doctor.

It is important for the injured employee to keep track of all medical records, bills, and receipts related to their injury. These documents will be essential when filing a workers' compensation claim and seeking reimbursement for medical expenses.

Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim

To file a workers' compensation claim in Texas, the injured employee or their representative should contact the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation. They can be reached at 800-252-7031, option 1.

When filing a claim, the injured employee will need to provide information such as their name, contact details, employer's name, date and time of the injury, and a description of how the injury occurred. It is important to file the claim within one year from the date of the injury to ensure eligibility for benefits.

Conclusion

When an employee is injured at work in Texas, it is crucial to follow the proper procedures to ensure their well-being and protect their rights. Reporting the injury, seeking medical treatment, and filing a workers' compensation claim are important steps that should be taken promptly. By understanding the workers' compensation program and knowing their rights, injured employees can receive the necessary benefits and support during their recovery process.