Texas has the second biggest economy in the U.S. According to Forbes, 100 of the 1,000 largest businesses in the country are located in the Lone Star State. According to the Texas Comptroller’s Office, the manufacturing sector alone is greater than the entire economy of Portugal.
With this economic success comes a need for a lot of workers. There are laws and regulations in place to protect the health of workers, but unfortunately, many serious workplace injuries and illnesses occur each year.
As of August 2018, the most recent year complete labor statistics were available is 2016. For that year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in the U.S. there were:
- 2,857,400 non-fatal injuries and illnesses to employees in the private sector.
- 5,190 deaths occurred of workers in all sectors—a seven percent increase from 2015
Employees in all industries risk getting hurt or being killed in the workplace. You deserve to know how a work-related injury or illness could have happened to you and what you can do to protect your right to a fair recovery.
How Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses Happen
Unfortunately, irresponsible companies often cut corners and place profits over safety. This can result in serious injuries and illnesses. Circumstances involving workplace incidents include:
- An employee is exposed to dangerous chemicals or substances without proper ventilation or protection
- A company fails to conduct necessary safety inspections
- An employer doesn't properly maintain equipment and machinery
- An employer fails to provide workers with appropriate safety equipment
- Employees don't receive necessary job or safety training
- An employer neglects to follow applicable state and federal safety regulations
- A company engages in negligent hiring practices
Different Types of Occupational Illnesses and Injuries
The kind of illnesses and injuries suffered as a result of industrial or workplace incidents depend on exactly what happened. Here are some of the most common health concerns:
- Amputation
- Back injuries
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Cancer
- Electrocutions
- Eye injuries
- Hearing loss
- Respiratory illnesses
- Scarring
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
Additionally, psychological issues and even death may result from an industrial or work incident.
Let Our Work Injury Lawyers Help You Protect Your Rights
Our personal injury attorneys fight for individuals hurt on the job. As an injured employee, you may be able to recover personal injury restitution for your injuries or, in some cases, be eligible for workers' compensation benefits.
However, unlike other states, Texas doesn't require employers to carry workers' compensation coverage. If an employer elects to subscribe to coverage, the limits are set by law.
Our lawyers will fight for your full and fair recovery from every potential source. To learn more about your rights and about how to protect them, please contact us today for a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation.
