Plano Workplace Injury Attorneys

Here to Help You Pursue Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workplace accidents can occur in any work environment, from office spaces to construction sites, and workplace injuries can range from physical injuries to occupational illnesses.

When you're dealing with a workplace injury, it's not just about getting immediate medical attention in Plano; it's also about securing your future. Filing a claim for a workplace injury is an important step towards protecting your future, as workers’ compensation (comp) benefits can help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

However, the process can be complex and often requires a thorough understanding of labor laws and workers' compensation regulations. That's where MAS Law comes into play.

Our team is well-versed in handling such cases, offering guidance and representation to those affected by workplace injuries. With our help, you can navigate your case with confidence, understanding your rights and options and making informed decisions that protect your interests.

To discuss your case with our Plano attorneys, call (972) 460-9339.

Common Types of Workplace Accidents

Here are the most common types of workplace accidents and their common causes:

• Slips, trips, and falls. These are the most common types of workplace accidents, often caused by wet floors, cluttered work areas, poor lighting, and loose carpets.
• Electrocutions. These can occur when using faulty electrical equipment or working near live wires.
• Cuts and lacerations. Often caused by improper use of tools, mishandling sharp objects, or lack of protective equipment, these accidents can lead to minor or severe cuts.
• Exposure to harmful substances. This can happen in industries dealing with hazardous chemicals or substances. Causes include improper handling or storage, lack of protective equipment, or inadequate ventilation. In case of exposure, follow the specific protocol for the substance involved, which may include flushing the area with water, removing contaminated clothing, and seeking immediate medical attention.
• Fires and explosions. These can be caused by faulty electrical equipment, flammable materials, or mishandling of combustible substances. In case of a fire or explosion, evacuate the area, call the fire department, and treat any injuries.
• Machinery-related accidents. Common in industries using heavy machinery. Causes include lack of training, improper use, or faulty machines.
• Repetitive motion injuries. These can occur in any job that involves repetitive tasks, like typing or assembly line work. Causes include poor ergonomics, lack of breaks, or overexertion. If symptoms like pain or numbness occur, seek medical attention.
• Workplace violence-related accidents. This can range from verbal abuse to physical assaults. Causes can be personal conflicts, stress, or lack of security measures.

How Long Can You Get Workers’ Compensation in Texas?

How long you receive workers’ compensation benefits can vary based on the following factors:

• Injury severity. The severity of the injury largely determines how long an employee can receive benefits. More serious injuries typically result in longer recovery times, necessitating extended benefits.
• Recovery timeline. The length of the recovery period also plays a significant role. If an employee requires extended medical care or rehabilitation, the benefits may continue until the person recovers, returns to work, or reaches Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI).
• Pre-existing conditions. Pre-existing conditions can also affect the duration of workers' compensation benefits. If a pre-existing condition is aggravated by a Plano workplace injury, it may result in extended benefits.
• The type of benefits you are eligible to receive. When it comes to income benefits, there are also four types of benefits, including temporary, impairment, supplemental, and lifetime income benefits. As the name suggests, lifetime benefits last a lifetime; however, the other types of benefits will end. For instance, temporary income benefits can end when you have received benefits for 104 weeks from the eighth day of your injury or a healthcare provider deems you have healed as much as possible from your injury (i.e. you reached MMI).

How Much of Your Salary Does Texas Workers’ Comp Pay?

The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the type of benefits you receive. Below, we will discuss the four types of compensation and how much of your salary they pay:

1. Temporary income benefits are paid to workers who are recovering from an on-the-job injury and are unable to earn their usual pay. In Texas, TIBs amount to 70% of the difference between the worker's average weekly wage before the injury and their ability to earn income post-injury. However, there are maximum and minimum limits set by law each year.
2. Once a worker reaches MMI, they may be eligible for impairment income benefits (IIBs) if they have an injury that affects their whole body. The benefits amount to 70% of the worker's average weekly wage. The duration of these benefits depends on the impairment rating assigned by the doctor, with three weeks of benefits provided for each percentage point of impairment.
3. Supplemental income benefits (SIBs)are available to workers with an impairment rating of 15% or more, who have exhausted their IIBs, and are still facing obstacles in returning to work. SIBs are 80% of the difference between 80% of the worker's average weekly wage before the injury and their post-injury earning capacity. These benefits are subject to quarterly applications and can be received for up to 401 weeks.
4. Lifetime income benefits are provided to Plano workers who suffer certain severe injuries, such as total and permanent loss of sight in both eyes, loss of both feet, or a traumatic brain injury resulting in a significant neurocognitive disorder. LIBs amount to 75% of the worker's average weekly wage, with a 3% increase each year.

Representing Clients in Collin County & the Surrounding Areas

Workers' compensation is a crucial lifeline for employees who have suffered injuries or illnesses on the job. It provides medical benefits and wage replacement, helping to alleviate the financial burden during recovery.

Navigating the aftermath of a Plano workplace injury can be daunting. Understanding your rights and legal options is crucial to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. At MAS Law, we're committed to helping you make sense of these complex issues.

Injured in a workplace accident? Reach out to our Plano team online or by calling (972) 460-9339.