A Dallas Work Injury Lawyer Explains What You Need to Know if Your Big-Box Employer Doesn't Have Workers' Comp
Suffering a workplace injury is a distressing experience, both physically and emotionally. The situation becomes even more challenging when you discover that your employer, a big-box store like Amazon, Home Depot, Walmart, or Kroger, doesn't have workers' compensation insurance. As you grapple with mounting medical bills and the uncertainty of supporting your family while you recover, it's essential to understand your legal options and seek the guidance of an experienced Dallas work injury lawyer.
Understanding Non-Subscriber Employers in Texas
In Texas, private employers can choose whether to subscribe to the state's workers' compensation system. Non-subscriber employers, like many large retail and grocery chains, have opted out of providing this coverage for their employees. This means that if you suffer a work-related injury or illness, you cannot file a claim through the workers' comp system.
However, you still have options. Non-subscriber employers can be sued for negligence under personal injury laws. To succeed in a claim against a non-subscriber, you must prove that your employer's negligence caused your injury. If you can prove that your employer was at least 1% responsible for your injury, your employer will need to pay 100% of your damages.
Common Workplace Injuries in Retail and Grocery Settings
Employees in big-box stores face various hazards that can lead to serious injuries, such as:
- Slips and falls. Wet floors, spills, and debris can cause employees to slip and fall, resulting in broken bones, head injuries, and back problems.
- Overexertion. Lifting heavy boxes, reaching for items on high shelves, and repetitive motions can lead to strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal disorders.
- Falling objects. Improperly stacked merchandise or unsecured items can fall and strike employees, causing head injuries, lacerations, and bruises.
- Equipment accidents. Malfunctioning or improperly maintained equipment, such as forklifts or pallet jacks, can cause crushing injuries, amputations, and fatalities.
Lack of training, inadequate security, and other things can also cause serious work-related injuries.
What to Do After a Workplace Injury at a Non-Subscriber Employer
If you've been injured on the job at a non-subscriber employer in Dallas-Fort Worth, take these steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention. Your well-being should be your top priority. Visit a doctor or emergency room to have your injuries evaluated and treated. Be sure to keep copies of all medical records and bills.
- Report the incident. Notify your supervisor or HR department about the accident as soon as possible. Put the report in writing and keep a copy for your records.
- Gather evidence. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any equipment or hazards involved, if possible. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Contact a Dallas work injury lawyer. Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands the ins and outs of non-subscriber work injury cases. We can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Damages You May Recover in a Non-Subscriber Work Injury Claim
By filing a work injury lawsuit against your non-subscriber employer, you may be able to recover damages such as:
- Medical expenses for emergency visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
- Lost income for income lost during recovery, including base salary, bonuses, commissions, benefits, and self-employment income.
- Pain and suffering for physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Disability or disfigurement for permanent disabilities or disfigurement, like scarring or paralysis.
- Loss of earning capacity for reduced future earning potential due to injury.
- Punitive damages may also be available in rare cases. Punitive damages are for gross negligence or willful misconduct by your employer.
Dallas-Fort Worth work injury lawyer Warren Armstrong can assess your case and help you determine the full extent of your damages. He’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses.
Why Choose Armstrong Law for Your Dallas Work Injury Case
At Armstrong Law, Warren M. Armstrong is committed to providing compassionate legal representation. With years of experience handling non-subscriber work injury cases in Dallas-Fort Worth, Warren will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and advocate for your rights at every step. For insight into past successes, you can review our case results.
The firm operates on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t owe anything unless Warren recovers compensation on your behalf. With Armstrong Law, you’ll have personalized attention from an attorney who genuinely cares about your recovery and future.