Being struck by a falling object at work may seem like an unlikely circumstance, but it actually happens quite often, whether you work at a construction site, a dock, a warehouse, or a retail store, you risk being injured by something falling from above. Thanks to Texas’ non-subscriber law, some employers do not provide workers’ compensation to their injured employees. In these cases, it is possible to file a lawsuit directly against the employer to pursue compensation for damages.
Learn more by speaking to a Katy falling objects injury lawyer. One of our experienced work accident attorneys could help you get the financial compensation you deserve.
Injuries that Occur From a Falling Object
Some of the injuries that could happen at the work site due to a falling object include:
A falling objects injury lawyer in Katy understands the seriousness of any accident that prevents someone from working and living life in a normal way.
Liability in Falling Object Injury Cases
Many companies that use heavy machinery strive to prevent accidents by training employees in safety, and they may provide employees with protective gear, such as a hard hat. However, accidents still happen and injuries still occur. Identifying the person or party who was at-fault for the injury is an important part of pursuing compensation.
In Texas, companies that choose to opt out of the workers’ compensation system could be sued for negligence if an injury occurs to an employee who is working. The injured worker needs to be able to show who was at fault for the injury. In a non-subscriber claim, the liable party would be the employer. If the liable party is someone else, the injured person could file a third-party personal injury claim. A Katy lawyer who handles falling object injuries could help evaluate the case and gather evidence that proves liability. Examples of liable parties in a falling objects injury include:
- The employer
- Another employee
- Contractors or sub-contractors
- Crane companies or crane operators
- Property owners who fail to take appropriate safety measures
In short, if someone breached their duty of care, and it resulted in an injury, that person or company could be liable for the injury.
The Statute of Limitations
Whether the injured person is filing a non-subscriber claim against their employer, or they are filing a claim against a different liable party, they must file within the time period set by the statute of limitations. In Texas, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. Getting in touch with a Katy falling objects injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident helps prevent missing the deadline and losing an opportunity to be compensated for damages.
Discuss Your Falling Objects Injury Situation with a Lawyer in Katy
Getting injured at work can be a tragedy that changes the entire trajectory of your life. If something fell on you at work and caused injury, you could be eligible for compensation to cover the cost of damages.
Contact a Katy falling objects injury lawyer at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris to find out what legal options are available to you. Schedule your free consultation and get the legal advice you need to proceed.
