Port Aransas is built on the hard work of oilfield crews, construction workers, hospitality staff, and maritime laborers. These working-class jobs are the backbone of our local economy. But when something goes wrong on the job, many workers are shocked to find out that their employer doesn’t carry workers’ comp insurance. 

Texas is one of the few states that doesn’t require most private employers to carry workers’ compensation, and many in industries such as construction, marine services, tourism, and industrial work choose not to. These companies are referred to as non-subscribers, and they handle workplace injury claims in a distinctly different manner. 



At A2X Law, we’ve seen firsthand how non-subscribers in Port Aransas operate, and we know precisely how to hold them accountable when they cut corners and leave injured workers without support. 

What Is a Non-Subscriber? 

In Texas, employers have the option to opt out of the workers’ compensation system. If they do, they become “non-subscribers” and must create their own injury policies or risk being personally liable for workplace injuries. 

This means: 

• You can’t file a traditional workers’ comp claim 
• You can file a personal injury lawsuit if their negligence caused your injury 
• The employer cannot use your negligence as a defense in court (a key protection for injured workers) 

Why It Matters in Port Aransas 

Industries such as oil & gas, construction, dock work, and industrial cleaning, all of which are common in Port A, often opt out of workers' compensation to save money. But when a serious injury occurs, the cost is passed directly to you. 

We frequently see cases where: 

• A contractor is injured in a fall on a jobsite without safety railings 
• A kitchen worker slips in a restaurant with no wet floor signs 
• Improperly loaded materials crushed a warehouse employee 
• An oilfield roustabout suffers burns due to outdated equipment or a lack of training 

These jobs come with high physical demands, and employers who don’t carry workers’ comp often don’t have your back when something goes wrong. 

How Do Non-Subscribers Handle Workplace Injuries? 

Unfortunately, many non-subscribers in Port Aransas handle claims poorly or dishonestly. Some may: 

• Pressure you to “walk it off” and not report the injury 
• Send you to company-friendly doctors who minimize your injuries 
• Ask you to sign waivers or arbitration agreements 
• Delay or deny payments for your medical care or lost wages 
• Threaten your job if you seek legal advice 

You are not obligated to follow their rules, and you should never accept their first offer without understanding your rights. 

What Can You Do if You’re Hurt While Working for a Non-Subscriber? 

You may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against your employer if their negligence led to your injury. That includes: 

• Unsafe work environments 
• Inadequate safety training or supervision 
• Faulty equipment 
• Violations of OSHA standards 
• Failure to provide protective gear 

Unlike traditional workers’ comp, these claims can include full compensation for your damages, including: 

• All medical expenses (hospital bills, rehab, medication, surgery) 
• Lost income and future earning capacity 
• Pain and suffering 
• Mental anguish 
• Permanent disability or disfigurement 
• In some cases, punitive damages 

And if the injury leads to a wrongful death, surviving family members may also pursue compensation. 

How A2X Law Helps Injured Workers in Port Aransas 

At A2X Law, we’ve taken on non-subscribers across the Coastal Bend. We are familiar with the tactics they use to delay, deny, or underpay claims, and we know how to counter them. 

When you work with us, we will: 

• Investigate the accident thoroughly 
• Preserve evidence and witness statements 
• Identify violations of safety laws or company policy 
• Handle all communication with your employer and their legal team 
• File your lawsuit and aggressively pursue maximum compensation 
• Stand by your side through the trial, if necessary 

We understand how hard you work and how hard it is to ask for help when you’re hurt. But you don’t have to face this alone. 

Time Is Critical - Don't Wait, Reach out to A2X Today 

Texas law limits the amount of time you have to file a claim against a non-subscribing employer. In most cases, you have two years from the date of injury, but key evidence can be lost much sooner if you don’t act quickly. 

You’ve already suffered enough. Don’t let a non-subscriber employer deny you the care and compensation you need to heal. At A2X Law, we take pride in standing up for hardworking Texans and will fight to ensure your voice is heard.