Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Fort Worth

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Fort Worth, Texas?

  817-392-4222 is the non-emergency dispatch line of the local police station in Fort Worth.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Fort Worth, Texas?

  Requests for public information can be submitted in writing or typed format. You have the option to submit your request online at http://fortworthtexas.gov/records/request/ or through the following means:

  • By email to PublicInformationAdministrator@fortworthtexas.gov
  • By mail or in person to Officer for Public Information or Public Information Administrator at 200 Texas Street, Suite 3614, Fort Worth, Texas, 76102.

• Who qualifies for workers' compensation benefits in Fort Worth?

  In Fort Worth, those who have suffered an injury or illness while employed at a company that is subscribed to the Texas workers’ compensation system are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The system operates on a no-fault basis, allowing employees who were injured due to their own actions to successfully file for benefits. It is important to note that companies are not obligated by law to have workers’ compensation insurance, thus employees working at those companies would not be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

• What steps should be taken following a workplace accident in Fort Worth?

  After experiencing a workplace accident in Fort Worth, report your injuries to your employer as soon as possible and avoid giving any recorded statements until you consult with an attorney. Additionally, you should gather information from witnesses, write a thorough report of the incident, and ensure that you attend all necessary medical appointments and follow your doctor's instructions. By following these steps, you can strengthen your case and avoid any potential harm to your claim.

• What are the most common causes of work injuries in Fort Worth?

  An insurance company analyzed workers' compensation claims and found that the leading causes of work injuries in Fort Worth are overexertion, repetitive motions involving micro-tasks, being struck by an object or equipment, motor vehicle accidents, slip or trip without a fall, being caught in or compressed by equipment or objects, falls on the same level and falls to lower levels, and being struck against an object or equipment.

• How much is a Fort Worth workers' compensation case worth?

  A workers' compensation claim's value in Fort Worth is influenced by multiple factors such as the employer's subscription to workers' comp insurance, the wages before the injury, medical expenses, the type of injury, the length of time required for recovery, and fault attribution. In Texas, workers' compensation benefits are limited and provide approximately 70% of the difference between the pre-injury and post-injury average weekly wages.

• Can you sue your employer for a work injury in Fort Worth?

  If your employer in Fort Worth is a subscriber to the workers' compensation system, you cannot file a lawsuit against them. However, if your employer is not a subscriber to the system, you can bring a personal injury lawsuit to claim compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of consortium, and other injury-related expenses.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.