Workers’ Compensation in Texas

In 2020, the most recent year for figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas ranked as the deadliest state for workplace fatalities. While the number of occupational deaths dropped from 608 in 2019 to 408 in 2020, the decrease is largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and more employees working from home. 

Unfortunately, as business has returned to normal, the number of jobsite deaths in Texas is expected to increase, as is the amount of injuries. 

According to BLS data from 2021, there over 2.6 million workplace injuries occurred in the U.S. Texas though, does not release the total number of occupational injuries within the state. However, a Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation report stated there were just under 179,000 injuries within the private sector. 

UA Local 404 believes it is vital for workers to be fairly compensated for injuries suffered due to unsafe working conditions.

Per the Collective Bargaining Agreement between Local 404 and its signatory contractors, the contractors must carry workers’ compensation insurance. 

Workers’ compensation in Texas

Texas is one of the most populous states in the U.S. and has a booming construction industry. As such, the state sees a large number of workers injured on the job each year. 

For those who are not members of a building trades union, an injury at work could lead to no income.

If construction workers are not covered under their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance, then they will not earn an income if they are seriously injured on the job and unable to perform their work.

For Texans whose employers have workers’ compensation insurance, such as the members of Local 404, there is a bit of peace knowing that you will not lose your income if you suffer a workplace injury and cannot do your job. 

Learn more about workers’ compensation in Texas and how to file a claim for benefits by visiting the Texas Department of Insurance.