Know Your Rights After a Workplace Injury

If you’ve been injured on the job in Pharr, Texas, and your employer is a non-subscriber to workers’ compensation, you may be wondering what that means for your rights, your medical bills, and your future. At A2X, we specialize in helping injured workers hold non-subscribing employers accountable and secure the compensation they deserve. Let’s break down what this all means because if you were hurt at work, you deserve more than confusion and broken promises. 

What is Workers’ Compensation? 

Workers’ compensation is a system designed to protect employees who are injured on the job. In most states, employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage provides medical benefits and partial wage replacement to employees who suffer from a work-related injury or illness, regardless of who was at fault. But Texas is different. Unlike almost every other state, Texas does not require private employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Businesses that choose not to participate in the state’s workers’ compensation system are called non-subscribers. 

What Is a Texas Non-Subscriber? 

A non-subscriber is a Texas employer who has opted out of the state-run workers’ compensation program. Instead of paying into the state system, these employers may set up their own employee injury benefit plans or, in some cases, offer no formal benefits. While this option saves employers money, it puts employees at serious risk. Unfortunately, we often see non-subscribing employers use this system to avoid accountability after a worker is injured. 

Why Does Texas Allow Non-Subscription? 

Texas is the only state that allows private employers to opt out of workers' comp. The idea is to encourage free-market solutions and enable businesses to create alternative benefits plans. In theory, non-subscriber employers are still legally required to care for injured workers. But in reality, many employees are left vulnerable after a serious accident, especially when employers cut corners or deny responsibility. At A2X, we’ve seen it too many times: hardworking people suffer life-changing injuries only to be told their employer doesn’t carry workers’ comp and won’t help. 

The Key Differences: Workers’ Comp vs. Non-Subscriber Claims  

Understanding the difference between a workers’ compensation claim and a non-subscriber case is critical for injured employees. In short, non-subscriber cases offer the potential for greater compensation, but they are also more complex, and employers will fight hard to protect their interests. 

The Challenges of Non-Subscriber Cases 

If your employer in Pharr is a non-subscriber, you can pursue a claim, but it won’t be straightforward, which is why you need A2X by your side. These cases are not like traditional workers’ comp claims, and you’ll likely face several hurdles, including: 

• Proving Employer Negligence: To win a non-subscriber case, you must prove that your employer’s negligence caused your injury. This could include unsafe working conditions, inadequate training, failure to provide protective gear, or disregard for safety protocols. At A2X, we work diligently to gather the evidence needed to support your claim, such as witness statements, safety reports, and medical documentation, to show how your employer’s actions or inaction led to your injury. Our team is committed to protecting your rights, holding negligent employers accountable, and helping you secure the compensation you deserve for your losses. 
• Fighting the Employer’s Defense: Non-subscribers often hire aggressive legal teams to avoid liability. They may argue that your injury was your own fault or that you signed a waiver that limits your rights. Insurance adjusters often try to reach out to you shortly after the accident in hopes you will accept a lowball settlement offer. We will fight for what you are owed and handle all communications with your employer's defense. 
• Dealing with Employer-Controlled Benefits Plans: Some non-subscriber employers offer their own "injury benefit plans," but these are not the same as workers’ comp. They may limit the doctors you can see, deny benefits altogether, or end payments before you’re fully healed. If what they are offering feels unfair, it is probably because it is. Our team will help evaluate what they are offering and your options when you schedule a consultation. 
• Fear of Retaliation: Many injured workers fear that filing a claim could lead to termination or workplace retaliation. We want you to know that it’s illegal for employers to retaliate, but it still happens, and the fear is real. If this is the circumstance in your case, our team will dive in further and pursue a wrongful termination claim on your behalf. 

How A2X Fights for Injured Workers in Pharr, Texas 

At A2X, we know how non-subscriber employers operate and how to beat them. Our team specializes in Texas non-subscriber injury claims, and we’re passionate about protecting injured workers in Pharr and throughout Hidalgo County. When you work with us, here’s what you can expect that: 

• We Investigate Thoroughly: We gather evidence, interview witnesses, review safety protocols, and dig deep into your employer’s history. If they’ve cut corners, we’ll find it, and we’ll use it to build a strong case. 
• We Prove Employer Negligence: Texas non-subscriber law allows you to recover full damages if you can prove even 1% negligence on the part of your employer. We work to show exactly how your injury could have and should have been prevented. 
• We Handle the Legal Battle: We go toe-to-toe with big legal teams. Whether it's negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial, we are relentless advocates for our clients. 
• We Fight for Maximum Compensation: Unlike workers’ comp, a non-subscriber lawsuit can allow you to recover for: 
• Full lost wages (past and future) 
• Medical expenses 
• Pain and suffering 
• Mental anguish 
• Loss of earning capacity 
• Physical impairment or disfigurement 

Common Non-Subscriber Industries in Pharr, TX 

Pharr is home to a range of employers, some of whom choose to be non-subscribers. We often see cases from: 

• Warehouses & distribution centers 
• Construction sites 
• Manufacturing plants 
• Retail chains 
• Trucking companies 
• Food processing facilities 

If you’re unsure whether your employer is a non-subscriber, we can find out for you and help you understand your options. 

Injured at Work? Don’t Wait. 

Time matters. In Texas, you may only have a limited window to file a claim against a non-subscribing employer. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to collect evidence and build your case. At A2X, we want to help you understand your rights and next steps. If you were injured on the job and your employer doesn’t have workers’ comp, don’t face it alone. Call A2X now or fill out our quick online form to schedule a consultation. Let us fight for compensation and the justice you deserve.