The Steps To Take When You’re Injured at Work in Oklahoma

When you’re injured at Work, there are important moves that you must make. The first thing to understand is that a workplace injury can happen to anyone, no matter how careful you are. Whether you work on a construction site, in an office, or on the road, knowing what to do immediately after an on-the-job injury can make all the difference in protecting your health, your job, and your right to compensation. Here are the key steps to take if you get injured at work in Oklahoma.

Report the Injury To Your Employer Right Away

Under Oklahoma workers’ compensation law, you must report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Ideally, you should notify your supervisor or HR department within 30 days of the accident, but the sooner the better. Failing to promptly report an injury could cause delays or even the denial of your claim.

When you make your report, include:

• The date, time, and location of the injury
• How it occurred and what you were doing when it occurred.
• Names of any witnesses and exactly what they saw or said regarding the accident.
• The body parts affected and how they were impacted

Keep a copy or written record of your report for your own records.

Seek Medical Treatment For The Work Injury

When you’re injured at work, your employer (or their insurance company) has the right to select the initial doctor who treats your workplace injury. However, if you are in an emergency, you can go to the nearest hospital or ER immediately. After emergency care, you’ll likely need to see a physician approved by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier for ongoing treatment.

Make sure you:

• Follow all doctor’s instructions
• Keep copies of medical records, prescriptions, and bills
• Do not exaggerate or understate your symptoms

File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Oklahoma

After reporting your injury and seeking medical care, you should file a workers’ compensation claim with the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission (OWCC). This starts the official process of obtaining benefits, including:

• Medical coverage
• Temporary total disability (TTD) payments while you recover
• Permanent partial disability (PPD) compensation if you suffer lasting damage

If your employer’s insurer denies your claim or delays benefits, an attorney can help you appeal and represent your interests before the Commission.

Document Everything

Keep thorough documentation throughout your recovery. This includes:

• Copies of your injury report and correspondence with your employer
• Medical records and treatment summaries
• Photos of the injury or accident site
• Any communications from the insurance company

Good records make it easier to prove your claim if a dispute arises.

Don’t Return to Work Too Soon

You may feel pressure to go back to work quickly, but returning before your doctor clears you can worsen your condition and hurt your claim. Wait until your treating physician releases you to light duty or full duty before returning.

Talk to an Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Attorney

If your employer refuses to report your injury, denies your claim, or retaliates against you for filing one, you should contact a lawyer experienced in Oklahoma workers’ compensation law. An attorney can help ensure that:

• You receive proper medical care
• Your wages and benefits are correctly calculated
• Your rights are protected against employer retaliation

Workplace injuries can cause serious financial and physical strain. By reporting your injury quickly, seeking medical help, and understanding your rights, you can put yourself in the best position to recover both physically and financially. If you’ve been hurt at work in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and have questions about filing a workers’ compensation claim, contact Kania Law Office today. Our experienced attorneys can review your case and help you pursue the benefits you’re entitled to under Oklahoma law.