Workplace injuries can occur in any type of industry. Even the most sedentary office job can lead to severe injuries in unexpected accidents, or even injuries that occur over time, resulting in physical injuries. If you or a loved one have received an on the job injury, you may be entitled to receive workers’ compensation for your injuries.

On the job accidents are often thought of as accidents which occur in the construction industry (unfortunately part of the federal Bureau of Labor’s “fatal four” industry) or the oil and gas industry. However, while these accidents often receive high amounts of press when they occur, on the job accidents can occur in any job, given the right set of unfortunate events.

On the job injuries can include the following:

• Broken bones
• Burns
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injury
• Paralysis
• Amputation

Many of the more extreme injuries often occur at industrial sites which pose dangerous conditions to all employees. It is therefore important for the employer to ensure all employees are appropriately trained prior to beginning their job. However, accidents do happen in any line of work, and are often not attributable to any one person.

Most employers in Texas fall within the Texas Workers’ Compensation System, but it is important to ensure your employer is part of the system, as soon as possible after the injury occurs. You have a 30 day window to give your employer notice of the injury, although you can receive medical care at any point after your injury.

Workers’ compensation claims do not distinguish the responsible party at fault for the injury. An employee may be solely at fault, or an employer may be solely at fault. Regardless, the injury occurred at the workplace and the employer will be responsible for covering the costs as provided under the Texas Workers’ Compensation system. It is important to determine the scope in which your injury occurred. If you were involved in a car accident on the way to work, you will not fall within the workers’ compensation system. However, if you were involved in a car accident on the way to a work business meeting, you may be eligible to file for workers’ compensation.

It is important to recognize the distinction between an employee and an independent contractor for purposes of workers’ compensation claims. An independent contractor will often be unable to file for a workers’ compensation claim because they are not classified as an employee under Texas law. However, a workers’ compensation attorney can assist you in determining your status for purposes of the workers’ compensation claim.

If you or a loved one received an on the job injury, do not hesitate to contact Tony Malley of the Malley Law Firm. Tony Malley has years of experience in handling workers’ compensation claims and will work closely with you to ensure you are receiving the full amount of compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact our Beaumont and Houston offices today for your initial free consultation.