Common Workplace Injuries in Texas

Common workplace injuries in Texas include a wide variety, ranging from physical trauma to overexertion. Stevenson & Murray helps individuals who have suffered injuries on the job and who need guidance on the legal steps they should take to obtain compensation for their damages.

Types of Workplace Injuries in Texas

Workplace injuries can take many forms, depending on the industry and type of work involved. In 2024 in Texas, the highest number of serious workplace incidents was in the construction industry, with 32% of all cases.

Types of workplace injuries can include:

• Those who work in construction, manufacturing, or transportation are often at higher risk of experiencing a traumatic brain injury. These incidents can occur when objects fall on the victim, there are equipment malfunctions, or there are vehicle collisions.
• Employees working around scaffolding, ladders, or elevated surfaces can fall, resulting in spinal cord injuries or other fall-related injuries. These kinds of incidents can lead to lifelong consequences and disability.
• Electrical burns and chemical burns are common in many workplace environments. These injuries can vary in their severity, but should always be examined by a medical professional.
• For those working around heavy machinery, crush injuries can easily occur. These injuries occur when an employee’s body is caught between the machines. Death is common in crush injuries, and following proper safety procedures.

Not all workplace injuries are as severe and life-threatening. Repetitive stress injuries are a common type of injury, especially for those working in factories, coffee shops, office settings, or hospice care. Simple tasks, such as typing or twisting your wrist, can result in conditions like tendonitis. If left untreated, these injuries may require physical therapy and surgery or result in permanent physical limitations.

Extreme Heat Leading to Injury

Heat is one of the three main causes of death and injury in the United States workplace and should always be taken seriously. According to a 2023 report, extreme heat in the United States leads to a high number of workplace fatalities, at up to 2,000 deaths a year. With Texas being in the southern part of the country, heat is a serious problem in the workforce. If you start feeling faint or dizzy, stop what you’re doing as soon as possible and seek medical care.

Texas Laws That Affect Workplace Injury Cases

Understanding your employer’s workers’ compensation policy is vital to knowing if you’ll receive care and compensation for lost wages for any workplace incidents in a timely manner with little legal pushback. Texas, unlike many states, does not require most private employers to have workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ compensation insurance helps cover injured employees’ medical expenses and a percentage of their wages if they are unable to work.

If your employer does not have workers’ compensation insurance, you’ll have to pursue a claim through the court system. Having a knowledgeable workplace injury attorney on your side is vital to your case, as you’ll have to prove employer negligence in order to obtain financial compensation.

This financial compensation can cover medical expenses, lost and/or future wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Your workplace injury attorney can help you gather evidence and strengthen your case.

Ways to Prove Negligence

There are a few routes to pursue to help prove why your injury or illness was caused. These can include:

• A third-party liability claim could be made if a contractor or a subcontractor was involved in the injury, or a company made a machine or piece of equipment that caused your injury.
• A gross negligence claim could be filed if the employer’s actions show a lack of concern for worker safety.
• A premises liability claim against the property owner or manager may be filed based on unsafe conditions at your workplace.

Understanding your legal rights under these unique state laws is critical to protecting yourself financially after a workplace injury.

FAQs

What Are the Top 5 Most Common Workplace Injuries?

The five most common workplace injuries include:

1. Overexertion that results in muscle strain
2. Slip and fall incidents in construction and warehouse environments
3. Struck-by-object injuries involving falling tools or materials
4. Machinery accidents causing crush injuries or amputation
5. Repetitive motion injuries that develop slowly and result in long-term disability if not addressed early with proper medical care and documentation

To help protect yourself, be sure to follow all safety procedures and wear proper Personal Protection Equipment (PPE).

Can I File a Claim Against My Employer for a Work Injury in Texas?

In Texas, injured workers may be able to bring a case against their employer if the employer does not carry workers’ compensation insurance, also called ‘non-subscriber’ employers. If the injury resulted from negligence, you’ll have to prove it to strengthen your case. Texas laws permit claims for damages when the injury results from unsafe work conditions. An attorney at Stevenson & Murray can investigate your case and discuss further steps.

Can I Still Recover Damages if a Third Party Caused My Work Injury?

Yes, if someone other than your employer caused your injury, such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner, you may be able to file a third-party personal injury claim. These claims are separate from workers’ compensation. Even if your employer has workers’ compensation coverage, third-party liability is still an option.

What Evidence Should I Gather After a Workplace Injury in Texas?

After a workplace injury, collect as much evidence as possible to support your claim. Start by reporting the injury to your employer and requesting a written incident report. Take photographs of the injury and the injury site. Seek immediate medical care and keep all medical records, including diagnoses, treatment plans, and doctor notes. Document how the injury has affected your daily life and ability to work.

Client-Focused Workplace Injury Lawyers

Dealing with a workplace injury can be incredibly overwhelming and often painful. It can interfere with your entire life in an instant and lead to lifelong disabilities. Finding out you aren’t covered by workers’ compensation insurance can be even more stressful. If you or someone you care about has been injured at work, contact Stevenson & Murray today. We can help you understand your legal options and pursue the right option for you.