A work-related injury can turn your life upside down in an instant, leaving you facing medical bills, lost wages, and an uncertain future. If you've been hurt on the job in the Dallas area, it's essential to know what to do after a work injury so that you can protect your physical recovery and legal rights. With over 18 years of experience, Warren Armstrong is here to guide you through the process and provide you with peace of mind as you seek the financial recovery you deserve.
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Confirm Your Employer's Workers' Comp Status
Texas law allows employers to opt out of the state's workers' compensation system. These companies, known as non-subscribers, handle workplace injury claims differently than those with workers' comp insurance.
As an injured worker, your first step is determining whether your employer has workers' compensation coverage or is a non-subscriber. If they're a non-subscriber, you may have the right to bring a personal injury lawsuit against your employer, but first, you need to understand what to do after a work accident.
Notify Your Employer of a Work Injury in Dallas
Promptly reporting your injury is essential. Provide written notice of your work injury as soon as possible. Your employer may have a procedure for doing this; if they do, it is essential to follow it. If not, provide a written report to your supervisor and human resources department. Keep a copy of your written notice and any accident reports related to your injury.
Seek Medical Treatment After a Work Injury
Even if you believe your work injury is minor, seek medical care immediately. Some severe injuries, like concussions or internal tissue damage, may not be immediately apparent. Seeing a doctor ensures you get the treatment you need and documents the connection between your injury and your job. Be sure to tell your physician that your injury is work-related.
If they're a non-subscriber, you can typically see your own doctor from the start. Continue to follow your treatment plan closely, and don't miss appointments. Gaps in treatment could hurt your claim.
Document Everything After Being Injured on the Job
Keeping detailed records is one of the best ways to strengthen your work injury claim. As you consider what to do after a work accident, it’s essential to start a file to store important documents, including:
- Accident reports. Keep copies of any written accident reports related to your injury, whether filed by you, a supervisor, or a witness.
- Medical records. Keep copies of all medical records related to your work injury, including doctor's notes, test results, procedure explanations, and hospital admission/discharge paperwork.
- Medical bills. Maintain copies of bills from all medical providers, including hospitals, urgent care clinics, radiology centers, pharmacies, and physical therapy offices.
- Communication records. Keep copies of emails, letters, and other correspondence with your employer about your injury and any post-injury absences from work. Take notes during phone calls.
- Be cautious in conversations. Exercise care when discussing your work injury with your employer, friends, and family. Stick to the facts and avoid downplaying or exaggerating your injuries.
- Injury journal. Consider keeping a daily journal documenting your pain levels, treatment, and any physical limitations or job-related tasks you can no longer perform due to your work injury.
Explore Your Legal Options After a Workplace Injury
When dealing with the fallout of a workplace accident, you need a skilled DFW work accident lawyer to explain your rights and fight for your interests.
Since your employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance, Mr. Armstrong may help you file a personal injury lawsuit to pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your work injury. If your employer was even a little bit at fault for your accident, they are responsible for all your damages. Learn how we’ve helped other Dallas area workers get the fair recoveries they deserve by browsing our case results.
After a Work Injury in Dallas, Contact Our Work Accident Lawyer
Armstrong Law is committed to building strong cases and securing recoveries for non-subscriber work injury clients in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Ready to take the next step?
Complete our contact form by clicking the button above to request a free initial consultation. For immediate assistance, call us at (866) 932-1288. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
