Odessa Work Injury Lawyer

Filing a Claim: Workers’ Compensation vs Third-Party

When you’re injured at work, it’s important to understand the distinction between workers’ compensation claims and third-party claims. At Braker White, we do not handle workers’ compensation cases and, instead, focus on third-party work injury claims.

Workers’ compensation is designed to cover injuries that occur on the job, regardless of fault, and is often limited in terms of the benefits it provides. However, workers’ comp doesn’t allow you to sue your employer for negligence or recover full damages for pain and suffering.

In contrast, a third-party claim is filed against an individual or entity other than your employer whose negligence contributed to your injury. These claims can result in a wider range of compensation, including damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of future earning capacity. At Braker White, we help injured workers pursue these third-party claims with the goal of securing the maximum compensation available.

Liability in Third-Party Work Injury Claims

In a third-party claim, the key is proving that someone other than your employer is responsible for the accident. Potentially liable parties in Texas work injury cases can include:

• Subcontractors or Other Contractors: If a subcontractor’s actions or negligence causes your injury on a work site, they may be liable.
• Equipment Manufacturers: If faulty or defective machinery contributed to your injury, the manufacturer of the equipment could be held accountable under Texas law through a product liability claim.
• Property Owners: If dangerous or unsafe conditions on the property where you were working led to your accident, the property owner may be liable under premises liability laws.

Third-party claims often involve complex legal arguments and investigations, which is why having an experienced Odessa work injury attorney on your side is essential. Our firm focuses on identifying all liable parties and building strong cases to recover the full compensation available under Texas law.

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Understanding Work Injuries

Workplace injuries can occur in any industry, from construction to manufacturing, and even in offices or retail environments. In Odessa, oilfields and industrial worksites are especially hazardous, with workers facing unique risks daily. If you’ve been injured on the job, understanding the causes of your injury and the types of injuries that commonly result from workplace accidents can help you determine the next steps for seeking compensation through a third-party claim.

Common Causes of Texas Workplace Accidents

Workplace accidents in Texas happen for a variety of reasons, many of which involve unsafe practices, defective equipment, or hazardous conditions. Some of the most common causes of workplace injuries include:

• Falls from heights or scaffolding: Falls are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries, particularly in construction. Workers may fall from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs due to lack of safety measures or unstable surfaces.
• Machinery accidents due to faulty equipment: Defective or poorly maintained machinery can lead to severe injuries, including amputations and crush injuries. Equipment malfunctions are often a result of negligence by manufacturers or maintenance crews.
• Exposure to hazardous substances: Workers in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or agriculture may be exposed to toxic chemicals, leading to respiratory issues, chemical burns, or long-term health complications.
• Electrical accidents: Contact with live wires, faulty electrical systems, or improper use of electrical tools can result in burns, electrocution, or even fatal injuries.
• Vehicle accidents involving work-related tasks: Employees who drive for work, such as delivery drivers or construction workers operating heavy machinery, are at risk for vehicle-related accidents, including crashes, rollovers, or being struck by a moving vehicle on a job site.

Common Work Injuries We See

At Braker White, our Odessa work injury attorneys regularly handle cases involving a wide range of serious injuries. Some of the most common work-related injuries we see include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): TBIs can result from falls, being struck by objects, or vehicle accidents. These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive impairments, memory loss, and other debilitating conditions.
• Spinal cord injuries: Severe falls, crush injuries, or vehicle accidents can result in spinal cord damage, leading to paralysis or limited mobility.
• Fractures and broken bones: These injuries are common in falls, machinery accidents, and vehicle collisions. While some fractures heal with time, others may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
• Burns and chemical exposure injuries: Workers exposed to fires, explosions, or hazardous chemicals may suffer severe burns or chemical injuries, which can lead to infection, scarring, and permanent damage.
• Amputations and crush injuries: Machinery malfunctions, construction site accidents, and heavy equipment mishaps can result in amputations or crush injuries, often requiring long-term medical care and rehabilitation.

Work injuries can change your life in an instant, but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. If you’ve been hurt at work in Odessa and believe a third party was at fault, our on-the-job injury attorneys are here to help you explore your legal options and support you during this challenging time.

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Reach Out to a Work Injury Lawyer in Odessa – No Cost, No Obligation

At Braker White, we believe in providing injured workers with the support they need during a difficult time. A work injury lawyer in Odessa is ready to evaluate your case and help you understand your legal options—at no cost to you. Contact us today and let us fight for the justice and compensation you may deserve.