Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Houston

FAQs

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

  Contact 713-884-3131 for a non-emergency response service from the Houston Police Department.

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

  Police reports can be requested by email to hpd.openrecords@houstonpolice.org or by fax to 713-308-9150. Mail requests can be sent to HPD, Records Division, 1200 Travis, Houston, TX, 77002. To pick up police reports in person, go to the first floor of the Edward A. Thomas Building at 1200 Travis St. in Houston during regular office hours.

• What happens to a disputed workers' compensation case in Houston?

  An employee in Houston can contact the Office of Injured Employee Counsel (OIEC) if there are disputes in their workers' compensation claims. An OIEC support specialist will then facilitate an informal dispute resolution proceeding. If the dispute is not resolved, a Benefit Review Conference will take place. If unsuccessful, the case will proceed to a hearing with the administrative law judge. Both sides to the claim can appeal the decision made by the judge, but if the case is still not resolved, it will go to a judicial court.

• When should you hire a lawyer in a workers' compensation case in Houston?

  It is prudent to at least consult a workers' compensation lawyer in Houston early on in your case, especially if your injuries are severe or if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. The sooner you have talked to a lawyer, the better your position will be in avoiding mistakes with your claim or securing better benefits. You should retain a lawyer when your claim is rejected by your employer, your benefits do not cover injury-related costs, and your injuries prevent you from getting back to work.

• Why would employers deny a workers' compensation claim in Houston?

  One of the reasons employers deny a workers' compensation claim is when employees do not make a report in a timely manner. Claims in Houston could also be denied if the employee delayed in getting medical care, initially made light of their injuries, or did not disclose any pre-existing medical condition. Additionally, employers sometimes deny a claim if there are no witnesses as to how the accident or injury happened.

• What should you take note of when returning to work after a work-related injury in Houston?

  You should provide the doctor treating you with information such as the insurance company name and claim number, DWC claim number, and your employer's name, address, and contact information. You should also follow your doctor's orders and attend every medical appointment, talk to your employer in Houston about returning to work, and follow company policies on work-related injuries. Contact the workers' compensation insurance adjuster if your pay or capacity to work changes.

• Is there a Division of Workers' Compensation Office in Houston?

  There are two Division of Workers' Compensation offices located in Houston: the first one is called the Houston East Office and is on the Elias Ramirez Building at 5425 Polk Street, Suite 130, and the second one is the Houston West Office which is situated at 350 N., Sam Houston Pkwy., E. Ste. 110.

• 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.