Work Injury Attorney Houston

Work Injury Attorney in Houston

Being hurt on the job is overwhelming. It’s critical to act quickly when serious injuries lead to lost wages, growing medical bills, and unexpected stress. Finding a trusted work injury attorney in Houston is the first step in taking control of the situation. Prompt legal support helps ensure accountability from those responsible and maximizes opportunities for recovery.

At our firm, we fight for individuals facing these difficult moments, not just as legal advocates, but,  as relentless protectors of justice. From the first consultation to the final resolution, every action we take is built around securing the compensation that’s rightfully deserved. Aggressive representation, thorough investigation, and personalized care are what set our approach apart.

Employers sometimes downplay injuries or try to pressure an early return to work. That’s where our team steps in, ready to challenge unfair tactics and hold negligent parties accountable. Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP meets every case with decades of insight, legal precision, and unwavering commitment.

Injured at Work? Know Your Rights. Protect Your Future.

Suffering a workplace injury in Texas brings more than physical pain—it disrupts daily life, compromises earning potential, and triggers urgent questions about long-term stability. Legal rights in these situations are not always obvious, and many injured individuals delay action simply because they don’t realize how time-sensitive these matters can be.

Anyone hurt on the job may be entitled to immediate legal protection, including access to medical care, reimbursement for income losses, and recovery of damages from negligent parties.

Without swift legal intervention, important deadlines and documentation may be missed, weakening even a legitimate claim. Some employers may attempt to deflect responsibility or push for a premature return to work, hoping to reduce their own liability. In other cases, quick settlement offers are made to avoid full accountability.

An experienced advocate can make all the difference by stepping in, outlining available options, and aggressively defending the injured party’s rights. In these moments, professional legal support becomes a critical asset in safeguarding both physical recovery and financial stability.

“Every challenge is an opportunity for us to make a difference. Let’s work together to turn your personal injury journey into a successful path forward. ”

Scott Armstrong

Partner

What Does a Work Injury Mean in Texas?

In Texas, a work injury refers to any injury, illness, or medical condition that arises directly from performing job-related duties. These injuries may result from an isolated incident—such as slipping on a wet surface or falling from a ladder—or may develop over time through repeated stress or exposure to harmful substances. The defining factor is whether the incident occurred during the course and scope of employment. This can include activities like operating company machinery, driving for business purposes, or attending work-sponsored events or training sessions.

The scope of work injuries is broad, ranging from orthopedic issues and soft tissue damage to traumatic brain injuries, electrical burns, and respiratory conditions. Some injuries are immediately obvious, while others surface weeks or months later. Industries such as construction, oil and gas, logistics, and manufacturing are especially prone to high-risk incidents, but accidents can happen in any workplace.

Even seemingly minor injuries can worsen without timely treatment. Employers may attempt to minimize the seriousness of the injury or delay reporting procedures. Whether an injury results from faulty equipment, poor safety protocols, or another party’s negligence, the law allows those affected to seek fair compensation. Understanding what qualifies as a work injury and knowing how to respond is critical to building a strong legal case that reflects the full extent of damages sustained.

Does Your Employer Have Traditional Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Texas does not require all private employers to carry traditional workers’ compensation insurance, a policy that makes it one of the few states where opting out is legally permitted. Employers who enroll in the system are known as subscribers and receive protection from most employee lawsuits. Non-subscribers, by contrast, do not have these legal shields and can be sued directly when their negligence leads to a work-related injury. This legal framework significantly affects an injured worker’s rights and compensation options.

Understanding whether an employer is a subscriber or non-subscriber is more than a technicality—it shapes the course of the legal process from the very beginning. In subscriber cases, there are strict rules and caps on benefits. But for non-subscribers, there is often a path to broader damages, including full compensation for pain, suffering, and diminished earning capacity. Identifying this status early allows a legal team to tailor the strategy accordingly.

Employers are required to inform workers of their coverage choice. However, some may not do so clearly, creating confusion in the aftermath of an accident. Legal professionals familiar with Texas labor law can quickly confirm an employer’s insurance status and advise on how to move forward. Knowing this distinction isn’t just helpful—it is essential to achieving a favorable outcome in a work injury case.

How to Find Out If Your Employer Has Workers’ Comp

Determining whether an employer participates in the state’s formal coverage system is a critical early step after a workplace injury. This information can be obtained through public databases maintained by Texas regulatory agencies or by directly submitting a written inquiry to the employer. State law requires employers to disclose their insurance arrangements upon request, and failure to do so may indicate a lack of coverage. Understanding this status helps shape the entire course of legal strategy moving forward.

An employer operating outside the state’s traditional coverage framework is considered a non-subscriber, and claims involving these entities are typically resolved through civil litigation. This pathway allows for a broader spectrum of damages, including compensation for pain, suffering, and reduced future earning potential. In contrast, injuries tied to a participating employer are often confined to administrative channels and capped payouts.

Legal teams that specialize in Texas injury law are skilled at rapidly determining an employer’s status and launching prompt legal action. Quick access to this insurance data enables faster claim development and allows for stronger evidence gathering while the details are still fresh. Early investigation and tailored strategy improve the chances of success significantly, ensuring that the injured party’s rights are fully preserved from the outset of the process.

What Happens If Your Employer Does NOT Have Workers’ Comp?

Employers who do not participate in traditional workers’ compensation coverage can be held fully liable for work-related injuries caused by their negligence. This means the injured party has the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit that may yield a wider range of compensation, including damages for physical pain, emotional suffering, diminished quality of life, and other non-economic losses that might not be available through insurance-based claims.

These legal actions often expose the shortcomings of an employer’s safety practices. When a company fails to provide adequate training, maintain safe working conditions, or supply necessary protective equipment, it places employees at unacceptable risk. Legal liability increases dramatically when gross negligence can be proven, in situations where the employer’s disregard for safety goes beyond simple carelessness. In such cases, the injured party may seek exemplary or punitive damages as outlined under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Section 41, serving as compensation and a deterrent against future negligence.

Pursuing a claim against a non-subscribing employer is a complex process that requires early evidence preservation, eyewitness accounts, and expert testimony. Legal teams familiar with non-subscriber litigation in Texas can help build a compelling case that maximizes recovery. With the right representation, what starts as a painful and uncertain event can become a powerful step toward recovery and long-term financial stability.

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Common Ways Employers Try to Avoid Responsibility

Some employers will go to extraordinary lengths to shield themselves from liability rather than prioritize the safety and well-being of their workforce. One common tactic is misclassifying regular employees as independent contractors, which can unfairly limit rights to compensation and medical support. Others may attempt to delay injury reporting, downplay the seriousness of the incident, or argue that the injury was unrelated to the job. These actions are designed to obscure the facts and discourage legal recourse.

It’s not unusual for employers to offer superficial solutions such as covering a single doctor visit or reimbursing a small out-of-pocket cost, just enough to avoid filing a formal claim. In more severe cases, employees may face pressure to stay silent through subtle threats like withheld promotions, job transfers, or even termination. These tactics put the company’s financial interest ahead of human safety.

Our legal team is well-versed in recognizing these patterns of behavior. Through detailed investigations, witness interviews, and expert analysis, we work to uncover the truth and pursue full accountability. Every injured worker deserves to be treated with honesty and respect, not manipulated by those in positions of power. Holding employers responsible isn’t just about justice—it’s about making workplaces safer for everyone.

What to Do After a Work Injury in Texas

Immediately after an injury, your first step should be to report the incident to your supervisor or employer in writing. Documentation is vital. Make sure to note the time, date, location, and names of any witnesses. Prompt notification helps establish a timeline and creates evidence that can be used later.

Next, seek medical care right away—even if the injury seems minor. Undiagnosed issues can develop over time and worsen. Request a full evaluation and follow all treatment recommendations. Keep records of every visit, prescription, and recommendation. Then, consult a work injury lawyer who can help you understand your legal options and prevent missteps that could hurt your claim. A single mistake early in the process could cost you significant compensation later.

Third-Party Liability: Is Someone Else Responsible?

Yes, in many workplace injury cases, a third party may be partially or fully responsible for your injuries. These can include contractors, manufacturers of defective equipment, or even property owners where work is performed. Third-party claims are separate from direct employer liability and can open up additional paths to compensation.

For example, if you were injured because of a faulty ladder made by another company or due to the negligence of a subcontractor, you could file a lawsuit against that third party. These claims can often lead to higher compensation because they allow you to pursue a full range of damages. With a skilled attorney, identifying responsible third parties can be a powerful way to ensure every accountable party contributes to your recovery.

Independent Contractors & Work Injuries

Independent contractors are often excluded from traditional workplace injury protections, but exclusion does not always mean disqualification. In cases where the company controls the method, schedule, and tools used to complete tasks, misclassification may be at play, and legal remedies may be available. This issue frequently arises in high-risk industries like construction, trucking, warehousing, and oil and gas, where employers often seek to reduce their liability by labeling workers as independent when they function as employees.

Texas courts examine the actual working relationship rather than simply relying on what is written in a contract. Supervision, performance standards, and the use of company-owned tools or uniforms are all indicators that a worker may legally be an employee. That classification carries critical protections and legal rights, especially in the event of an injury caused by unsafe conditions, lack of training, or failure to maintain equipment.

Many injured contractors mistakenly believe they have no legal recourse due to their job title, but that isn’t always true. A legal review of the working arrangement can uncover violations that lead to compensation opportunities.

Taking proactive steps to challenge misclassification ensures that employers are held accountable and that all injured workers have a chance to seek justice, regardless of how their role is labeled.

Why You Need a Houston Work Injury Lawyer

Handling a workplace injury on your own is risky. Employers and their insurers often have legal teams working to minimize payouts and limit your rights. A dedicated Houston work injury attorney can level the playing field by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and negotiating on your behalf.

We know how to navigate local court procedures, counter employer tactics, and build persuasive arguments to support your claim. Our goal is to secure the best possible financial outcome while making the process as stress-free as possible for you. When your health, job security, and future income are all at stake, legal representation is not just helpful—it’s essential. Let us step in so you can focus on healing.

We Don’t Get Paid Unless You Win

At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP, we operate on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs, and our success is tied directly to your outcome. This ensures you get high-quality representation without financial risk.

We are committed to helping injured workers access the justice they deserve, regardless of income level. Our approach is results-driven, and we fight hard for every client. When you partner with us, you get a team that’s fully invested in your recovery. We only win when you do.

Get Help Now from a Houston Work Injury Lawyer

You don’t have to navigate the aftermath of a work injury alone. Whether you need help understanding your options, fighting an insurance denial, or pursuing a lawsuit against a non-subscriber employer, we’re here to help. Contact Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a work injury attorney in Houston. Let a dedicated legal team fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. We’re ready when you are.

Scott Armstrong

Scott Armstrong obtains remarkable results for his clients. He has successfully tried numerous cases to favorable verdicts and reached significant settlements on his clients’ behalf, recovering millions for them. Our lawyers have 25+ years of combined experience.

Scott is known for his aggressive approach to every case. He has been recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers, an accolade awarded to only 2.5% of attorneys under forty and practicing for less than ten years. Houstonia Magazine, H-Texas Magazine, and others have recognized Scott as a “top lawyer” in Houston.

Get in touch with Scott Armstrong now.

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Kirby C.

Google Review

I cannot recommend Kelly Viktorin at Armstrong Lee & Baker highly enough. After being injured at work, I was incredibly discouraged as many attorneys wouldn’t take my case due to the complexities involved. From our very first consultation, Kelly and her team jumped right in, demonstrating a level of dedication and expertise that immediately put me at ease. Throughout the entire process, their communication was outstanding. I was consistently kept informed of any updates and felt like a priority. Kelly truly went above and beyond to fight for me, and I am so grateful for her hard work and commitment. If you’re facing a challenging work injury case, especially with a Texas non-subscriber, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kelly Viktorin. You’ll be in excellent hands.

Toby B.

Google Review

When I got injured my company didn’t have workers comp. They had something called non subscriber insurance. I tried a dozen or more lawyers and no one would take my case. I lost my house in Texas so right as I was moving back to where I was from, Florida, I called Armstrong Lee & Bkaer. They said they could take my case. Shortly after I meet Adam Grable.
Adam took the case and unraveled it like a champ. It was a difficult case and that’s why other lawyers didn’t take. Over the next year, Adam because a friend and a member of the family. I found him brilliant and personable and when needed he found for me. In the end, we took a settlement even though Adam told me he had a good shot at trial. He understood i wanted this behind me! If you ever find yourself needed a lawyer trust me Adam Grable will be on your side!

Majah W.

Google Review

I had been injured at work, and the attorneys at Armstrong Lee & Baker fought for what I was owed. I’m graciously appreciative for their attentiveness and swiftness with handling my case. Shout out to Lindsey W.

Toby B.

Google Review

When I got injured my company didn’t have workers comp. They had something called non subscriber insurance.
I tried a dozen or more lawyers and no one would take my case.
I lost my house in Texas so right as I was moving back to where I was from, Florida, o call Armstrong and Lee. They said they could take my case. Shortly after I meet Adam Grable.
Adam took the case and unraveled it like a champ. It was a difficult case and that’s why other lawyers didn’t take.
Over the next year, Adam because a friend and a member of the family.
I found him brilliant and personable and when needed he found for me.
In the end, we took a settlement even though Adam told me he had a good shot at trial. He understood i wanted this behind me!
If you ever find yourself needed a lawyer trust me Adam Grable will be on your side!

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