Sean McCarthy
If you were injured on the job in Houston or anywhere in Texas, you may have been told that workers’ compensation is your only option. That’s a common belief, but it’s not always true.
In many workplace accidents, injured workers have the right to pursue additional compensation through a third-party injury claim. These claims can provide significantly more recovery than workers’ comp alone, especially in serious or catastrophic cases.
Understanding your options early can make a major difference in your recovery, financially, physically, and emotionally.
Why Workers’ Compensation Often Falls Short
Workers’ compensation is designed to provide basic benefits, but it has limits. In most cases, workers’ comp:
- Covers only a portion of lost wages
- Pays medical bills but not future care in full
- Does not compensate for pain and suffering
- Does not hold negligent third parties accountable
For workers who suffer serious injuries, especially in industrial, construction, refinery, or oilfield environments, these limitations can be devastating.
What Is a Third-Party Workplace Injury Claim?
A third-party injury claim is a lawsuit against someone other than your employer whose negligence contributed to your injury.
Unlike workers’ comp, third-party claims can allow you to recover damages for:
- Full lost wages and future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of quality of life
- Long-term or permanent disability
This is where speaking with an experienced Houston third-party injury lawyer becomes critical.
Common Workplace Accidents That May Involve Third-Party Claims
Many serious workplace accidents involve outside companies, contractors, or defective equipment. Examples include:
Construction & Industrial Accidents
- Injuries caused by subcontractors
- Unsafe scaffolding or cranes
- Defective tools or heavy machinery
Oilfield & Refinery Accidents
- Explosions or fires
- Equipment failures
- Negligence by third-party vendors or contractors
Transportation & Jobsite Vehicle Accidents
- Being struck by a third-party vehicle
- Accidents involving delivery trucks or commercial vehicles
Defective Products & Equipment
- Faulty safety gear
- Defective machinery or parts
If someone other than your employer played a role, you may have a valid third-party workplace accident claim under Texas law.
Texas Is a Non-Subscriber State, Here’s Why That Matters
Texas is unique. Employers are not required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This means:
- Some injured workers may be able to sue their employer directly
- Liability rules can differ significantly from other states
- Early legal guidance is especially important
If you were injured on the job in Houston or anywhere in Texas, don’t assume your rights are limited.
Why Early Legal Guidance Matters
Third-party workplace injury cases often depend on early investigation, including:
- Preserving evidence
- Identifying all responsible parties
- Preventing insurance companies from shifting blame
Waiting too long can limit your options. Speaking with a knowledgeable workplace accident lawyer early helps protect your rights from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workplace Injuries in Texas
Is workers’ compensation my only option after a workplace injury in Texas?
No. In many cases, workers’ compensation is not your only option. If a third party, such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or another company, contributed to your injury, you may be able to file a third-party injury claim in addition to receiving workers’ comp benefits.
What is a third-party workplace injury claim?
A third-party claim is a lawsuit against someone other than your employer whose negligence caused or contributed to your workplace accident. Unlike workers’ compensation, third-party claims can allow you to recover damages for pain and suffering, full lost wages, and long-term medical care.
Can I file a third-party claim and receive workers’ compensation at the same time?
Yes, in many situations. You may receive workers’ compensation benefits while also pursuing a third-party injury claim. Each case is different, which is why speaking with a Houston third-party injury lawyer early is important.
How much does it cost to speak with a workplace injury lawyer?
Nothing. We offer free, confidential case evaluations, and there is no upfront cost to speak with an attorney about your options.
Talk to a Houston Third-Party Workplace Injury Lawyer Today
If you were injured at work, workers’ compensation may not be your only option. You deserve to understand the full scope of your rights before accepting anything less than what your case is worth.
Call us today at 713-230-2200 or contact us online for a free, confidential case evaluation.
We proudly represent injured workers throughout Houston and across Texas, including union workers, oilfield workers, refinery workers, and industrial tradespeople.
Our firm is built on union values, and we are proud to stand with the workers who keep Houston and Texas running.