What To Expect When I Am Injured At Work In Oklahoma

When you are injured at work In Oklahoma you must file a workers comp claim. Filing this claim is your right and can be made more confusing by insurance companies. If you were injured on the job, you might be concerned about how you will pay for treatment for your injuries and how you will make ends meet as you take time off to recover. Thankfully, Oklahoma’s workers’ compensation program is designed to offset the financial impact of a work-related injury or illness.

Am I Eligible For Workers’ Compensation?

Whether you are eligible for compensation when you are inured at Work In Oklahoma depends on your occupation, your employer, and the type of injury including knee injuries. For example, there are restrictions on eligibility for agricultural workers, real estate agents and brokers, and independent contractors, among others.
Who was at fault for the on-the-job injury typically does not affect eligibility. However, if you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and your intoxication caused the accident, your injury may not be covered.
What type of injury you suffered may also impact your eligibility. Some injuries that might not be covered include:
• Mental injuries, unless caused by physical injury or a result of a violent crime
• Injuries on adjacent areas of the property, unless the employer exclusively controls those areas
• Injuries during personal, recreational or social activities
• Injuries due to preexisting conditions, unless the work presented significant aggravating factors
• Injuries during an unauthorized work break
If your employer denies you coverage, you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney to determine whether you should be eligible.

How Can I Get Benefits?

When you are injured at work In Oklahoma you must notify your employer of the injury as soon as possible. If you do not notify them within 30 days of the injury, you might no longer qualify for compensation.
Once you notify your employer, they will have five days to provide reasonable and necessary treatment for your injury. After five days, if your employer still has not provided care, you may be able to select your own medical provider for treatment at your employer’s expense.
If issues arise and there is conflict about your eligibility, you may need to file a claim directly with the Workers’ Compensation Commission. This can lead to hearings, settlement negotiations, mediation, and even an appeal. It is wise to consult with an attorney prior to filing a claim so that they can help you through the process and try to obtain the best outcome for you.

What Will Be Covered?

If you suffer an eligible injury, workers’ compensation may compensate you, in full or in part, for:
• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Temporary or permanent disability
• Job placement or training, if you are unable to continue in your prior job or occupation
You may be entitled to disability payments if the injury impacts your ability to work. If you are unable to work for seven or more days due to the injury, temporary total disability (TTD) may compensate you for 70% of your average weekly wage, potentially subject to a cap. Temporary partial disability (TPD) might compensate you if you temporarily have to take a lower-paying job due to your injury. If your ability to work is permanently impacted by the injury, you could be entitled to permanent disability. Similarly, this can be for permanent total disability (PTD) or permanent partial disability (PPD). Also, if you are killed on the job, your family may be able to file for workers’ compensation.

How Long Will Compensation Last?

The maximum length of TTD is typically 156 weeks, but an additional year may be added if you suffer consequential injuries. However, how long you can receive disability benefits may depend on the type of injury. For example, TTD for soft tissue injuries may be limited to eight weeks.
You also must adhere to the plan for medical care to receive benefits. If you miss medical appointments or fail to follow the treatment plan, your claim may be denied.

Tulsa Oklahoma Work Injury Lawyers

If you have been injured at work In Oklahoma get the legal advantage you deserve. You should consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible. Our Tulsa attorney have dedicated work injury lawyers that are ready to help you get the relief that you deserve. Our team of lawyers will look at your case  and guide you through the process. Feel free to touch base with Kania Law Office by calling (918) 743-2233 or by contacting us online.