Working in the oil and gas industry can be seriously harmful because of the number of dangerous entities that workers are exposed to. In fact, worker accidents in the oil and gas industry are some of the most common employee injuries.

These injuries, whether severe or not, can often rack up a bunch of dollars in medical bills. Luckily, you and your employees might be covered by worker’s comp insurance. 

In this article, we’ll take a look at what worker’s compensation is and some details about when to file.

What Is Worker’s Comp?

Worker’s compensation is a type of insurance given to employees by their employer that includes a set amount of wage benefits in the event of a work-related injury.

Some of these benefits include covering medical bills, reimbursing salary while the employee recovers, and providing disability benefits.

Worker’s comp also protects the employer by covering the costs for them, so companies aren’t having to pay out of pocket for a workplace accident. In some cases, worker’s compensation can even cover legal costs if the employee chooses to file a lawsuit.

What Qualifies for Worker’s Comp?

Qualifying for worker’s comp is divided into two categories. 

1. Does my employer supply worker’s comp?

The first one is the simpler of the two. Most employers are required by law to purchase worker’s compensation insurance for their employees. This is required in all U.S. states except Texas. 

Some exceptions are made for very small businesses. Also, businesses can choose how much insurance they are willing to pay to cover work injuries.

    2. Does my injury qualify for worker’s comp? 

This question is more complex. The reason being is that many workplace injuries might not even qualify for worker’s comp. Workplace injuries not covered include fights with coworkers, very minor injuries, and accidents that happened while the employee was under the influence.

There might be some other occasions where worker’s comp can get denied. Be sure to consult a personal injury attorney to see whether your accident is covered.

When to File for Worker’s Comp

Working in the oil industry comes with a whole array of hazards. Some injuries that can happen on-site include chemical exposure, transportation accidents, electrocution, and equipment failure.

If an accident happens and you’re injured because of it, here are some tips to follow when filing. 

First, immediately notify your employer about the accident. If available, complete an incident report so there is a document of what happened. 

Keep in mind this is a time-sensitive occurrence. Every state has a different personal injury law for notifying your employer of an injury. If you’re in Houston, Texas, you must tell your employer by the 30th day after the accident.

You’ll then get a referral to either visit a doctor from your insurance or be requested to consult one based on your insurance plan. After that, you’ll fill out a claim form and await approval.

If you have more questions about filing for a workers comp as an employee in the oil and gas industry, please visit here: https://www.reichandbinstock.com/houston-personal-injury-lawyers/workplace-accidents/oil-gas-worker-injuries/.

More Help With Worker’s Compensation

Worker’s compensation can be a messy task to deal with if not done with the help of a professional. Be sure to consult a personal injury attorney if you have any questions about the process. 

Remember, in Texas, employers are required by law to provide adequate and fast medical care if an employee is injured on the job.

Be sure to visit our legal section for more info on worker’s comp and other legal topics.