Welding Accident Attorney in Austin
Millions Recovered for Injured Workers. Direct Attorney Access. No Fee Unless We Win.
Welding is one of the most hazardous trades on any job site. Burns, electric shock, arc eye, and toxic fume exposure can put a welder out of work for weeks or permanently. Briggle & Polan, PLLC is based in Austin, Texas, and is led by attorneys Hayden Briggle and Parker Polan. We represent injured welders and their families, and we’ve recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for clients across serious workplace injury cases. There’s no fee to speak with us, and we handle every case on a contingency basis. You pay nothing unless we win.
If you’ve been hurt in a welding accident, call our Austin welding accident attorney now at (512) 400-3278 to schedule your free consultation.
Why Injured Welders Work with Briggle & Polan, PLLC
You won’t be handed off to a paralegal or junior staff member. When you hire us, you work directly with Hayden Briggle or Parker Polan throughout your case. That matters in a welding injury claim, where the difference between a workers’ comp benefit and a full third-party lawsuit can come down to details uncovered early in the investigation.
Attorney Hayden Briggle
Named to the Texas Super Lawyers list every year from 2019 to 2025, Hayden Briggle brings a thorough investigative approach and strategic trial preparation to every case.
Attorney Parker Polan
A lifelong Austin resident who appeared on the Texas Rising Stars list from 2014 to 2022, Parker Polan brings local knowledge and genuine community investment to each client relationship.
We’re available 24/7, we’ll travel to meet you wherever is most convenient, and we keep you informed at every stage. We also offer services in multiple languages to serve clients from diverse backgrounds.
millions recovered for our clients
Landmark verdicts and settlements that speak for themselves
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Our client was hit head-on by a drunk teenager in front of an elementary school, flipping their vehicles.
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Our client was t-boned by a large package delivery truck that was traveling in excess of 70 mph. He sustained a severe neck injury that required spinal surgery. Our firm recovered $1,800,000 on behalf of our client.
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Our client was thrown off the back of a work truck, which fractured his skull and caused him to suffer a traumatic brain injury. *Net proceeds to the client were $900,052.11.
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Our client was run over by a drunk driver operating a company truck late at night which required multiple surgeries and months of rehabilitation. *Net proceeds to our client were $571,000.00.
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Our client was rear-ended by a large package delivery truck on I-35, which fled the scene. *Net to client was $461,708.19.
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Our client was rear-ended by an insurance adjuster in a commercial vehicle causing severe back and neck injuries. *Net to the client was $346,766.03.
Your Legal Options After a Welding Accident in Texas
Most injured welders assume workers’ compensation is their only path. That’s often incomplete. Texas is the only state where private employers can legally opt out of the workers’ compensation system. Employers who do this are called nonsubscribers, and the legal landscape shifts significantly when your employer holds that status.
Workers’ Compensation & Nonsubscriber Liability
Nonsubscribing employers forfeit several common-law defenses, including contributory negligence, assumption of the risk, and negligence of a fellow employee. The exclusive remedy provision that normally shields covered employers from civil lawsuits doesn’t apply to them. Under Texas Labor Code Section 406.033, an employee not covered by approved workers’ compensation may bring a direct negligence action against their employer. You can verify your employer’s coverage status through the Texas Department of Insurance.
Third-Party Claims & Proportionate Responsibility
Even when workers’ comp applies, it doesn’t end the analysis. Under Texas law, an injured worker can still pursue a separate claim against a negligent third party, such as an equipment manufacturer or another company operating on the same job site. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 33.001 governs proportionate responsibility in these cases: a claimant whose share of fault exceeds 50 percent can’t recover damages. Our job is to build the record that places fault where it belongs.
Who Else May Be Liable for a Welding Injury
Construction sites and industrial worksites often involve multiple contractors working under a general contractor. If another company’s negligence contributed to your injury, you may have a claim against that company separate from anything involving your direct employer. General contractors and property owners also carry independent duties to maintain safe conditions.
When defective equipment is part of the picture, a product liability claim against the manufacturer becomes relevant. A helmet that failed to filter UV radiation, a cable with defective insulation, or a torch that malfunctioned could each support a claim against the company that made or distributed it. Documented OSHA violations involving inadequate ventilation, missing safety gear, or improper storage of flammable materials can strengthen any of these third-party claims. Personal injury lawsuits arising from welding accidents in Austin fall under the jurisdiction of the Travis County District Court’s Civil Courts.
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“If you are looking for excellent and honest attorneys, call them. You will not be disappointed.”- Paige
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 512-400-3278 today!
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Texas law provides for workers' compensation, which covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages but does not cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering. However, Texas law allows for third-party claims, which can be brought against parties other than your employer, such as equipment manufacturers or contractors. This might allow you to claim additional damages, including for pain and suffering. Understanding Texas laws is crucial when determining the scope of your claim, highlighting the importance of an attorney with local expertise.
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In Texas, you can still file a claim even if you are partially at fault for the accident, thanks to the state's modified comparative negligence rule. This rule allows you to recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. It is crucial to have adept legal representation to accurately assess fault percentages and maximize your entitled compensation while ensuring your interests are well-protected.
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