Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Fort Worth

About Workers Compensation Law in Fort Worth, United States:

Workers compensation law in Fort Worth, United States, provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill while performing their job duties. This system is designed to ensure that injured workers receive medical treatment and lost wages without having to file a lawsuit against their employer.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

You may need a lawyer to help you navigate the complexities of workers compensation law, especially if you encounter issues such as a denied claim, a dispute over the amount of benefits you are entitled to receive, or retaliation from your employer for filing a claim.

Local Laws Overview:

In Fort Worth, workers compensation laws are regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation. Employers in Texas are not required to carry workers compensation insurance, but those who do are protected from lawsuits by their employees for workplace injuries. Employees have the right to seek medical treatment and receive two-thirds of their average weekly wage if they are unable to work due to a work-related injury.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How do I report a workplace injury in Fort Worth?

A: You should report a workplace injury to your employer as soon as possible. They will provide you with a claim form to fill out and submit to their workers compensation insurance carrier.

Q: Can I choose my own doctor for a work-related injury in Fort Worth?

A: In most cases, your employer's workers compensation insurance carrier will have a list of approved doctors for you to choose from. You may be required to see one of these doctors for your initial treatment.

Q: What benefits am I entitled to receive under workers compensation in Fort Worth?

A: You may be entitled to receive medical treatment, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation services if you are unable to return to your previous job due to a work-related injury.

Q: Can I sue my employer for a work-related injury in Fort Worth?

A: If your employer carries workers compensation insurance, you are generally prohibited from suing them for a work-related injury. Workers compensation is intended to be the exclusive remedy for workplace injuries.

Q: What should I do if my workers compensation claim is denied in Fort Worth?

A: If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. It is highly recommended to seek legal assistance from a workers compensation lawyer to help you with the appeals process.

Q: Can I receive workers compensation benefits if my injury was caused by my own negligence in Fort Worth?

A: Yes, workers compensation benefits are generally available regardless of who was at fault for the injury. However, there are some exceptions, such as injuries caused by drug or alcohol use.

Q: How long do I have to file a workers compensation claim in Fort Worth?

A: In Texas, you have one year from the date of your injury to file a workers compensation claim. It is important to file your claim as soon as possible to avoid any delays in receiving benefits.

Q: Can I receive workers compensation benefits if I work part-time in Fort Worth?

A: Yes, part-time employees are generally eligible for workers compensation benefits in Fort Worth as long as their injury occurred while they were performing work-related duties.

Q: Will I be terminated for filing a workers compensation claim in Fort Worth?

A: It is illegal for an employer to terminate an employee in retaliation for filing a workers compensation claim. If you believe you have been terminated for this reason, you may have a valid claim for wrongful termination.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a workers compensation lawyer in Fort Worth?

A: Workers compensation lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they successfully help you obtain benefits. The fee is usually a percentage of the benefits you receive.

Additional Resources:

If you need legal assistance with a workers compensation claim in Fort Worth, you may consider contacting the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation, or the State Bar of Texas for referrals to experienced workers compensation lawyers in your area.

Next Steps:

If you believe you are entitled to workers compensation benefits or if you are facing issues with your claim, it is recommended to consult with a workers compensation lawyer in Fort Worth. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal system, and ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve for your work-related injury.