When you injure yourself while working in Texas, you may expect your employer to cover the expenses you face in the aftermath. Texas is different than many other states, though, in that it does not require private employers to have workers’ compensation insurance. What does it mean for you if your employer lacks workers’ compensation insurance and you suffer an injury on the job?
According to the Texas Department of Insurance, “non-subscribers” is the term used for private employers that neglect to subscribe to state-regulated workers’ compensation insurance. In failing to do so, they open themselves up to potential liability in the event that you do hurt yourself and file a lawsuit.
Alternative programs
If your employer neglects to carry state-regulated workers’ compensation insurance, it may have an alternative program or system in place to help cover injury-related expenses you may face after a work-related accident. However, the amount offered to you may prove to be far less than what you need to cover associated expenses and receive adequate medical care.
Non-subscriber claims
If the offer your employer makes after your work injury is insufficient, you may be able to move forward with a non-subscriber claim. If your employer had workers’ compensation insurance, there would be a limit on how much you could pursue as far as damages. When your employer is a non-subscriber, though, there is no such cap. This means you may be able to pursue more compensation than you might otherwise.
If you decide to move forward with a non-subscriber claim, be ready to produce documentation about medical bills and related expenses you faced after your injury. Also, make sure to outline exactly how your employer’s negligence contributed to your injury.
