3 Common Workers’ Comp Injuries Seen in Oklahoma Workplaces

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  2. 3 Common Workers’ Comp Injuries Seen in Oklahoma Workplaces
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Did you know that the three most common injuries in Oklahoma workplaces are slips, trips, and falls? It shouldn’t be any surprise that these 3 Common Workers’ Comp Injuries also top the list of Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation claims.

3 Common Workers’ Comp Injuries: Slips, Trips, and Falls

In the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission annual report for 2020, slips, trips, and falls topped the list of work-related injuries for which workers successfully received workers’ comp benefits for their injuries. In 2020, the commission received 7,224 filings for work-related injuries or illnesses.

Oklahoma Workplace Injuries Most Commonly Affect:

While the 3 common workers’ comp injuries account for a significant of claims, it’s also interesting to see where workers are sustaining injuries. According to the same Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission annual report for 2020, certain body parts are more commonly injured in workplace incidents. The top 5 most common body parts injured on the job according to Oklahoma workers’ comp claims filed in 2020 are:

  • The Right Shoulder (608 claims in 2020)
  • The Back (539 claims in 2020)
  • The Left Shoulder (520 claims in 2020)
  • Lower Back (502 claims)
  • Neck (383 claims)

While the number of claims filed in previous years can offer a solid representation of the 3 common workers’ comp Injuries and what body parts are most likely to be injured, injuries are not limited to these common categories. While the injuries listed previously were the most common in 2020, many other serious injuries were recognized as eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. If you sustain an injury on the job and aren’t sure if workers’ compensation benefits cover it, contact an experienced Oklahoma workers’ compensation attorney to discuss your options.

How Much Money Does Oklahoma Workers’ Comp Benefits Provide:

The maximum amount of money a sick or injured Oklahoma worker can receive for workers’ compensation is adjusted almost every year and generally reflects the cost of living. The latest updates for Oklahoma were announced in February 2022, with changes effective January 1, 2022. When you file a workers’ compensation claim, the injury is classified. Whether it’s one of the 3 common workers’ comp Injuries, or one of many other types of injuries, it’s designated as either a temporary total disability (TTD), temporary partial disability (TPD), permanent disability (PD), or partial permanent disability (PPD). The benefits received will depend on which category your injury falls in. The maximum rate for Oklahoma workers’ comp TTD and TPD benefits increased to $953.18 per week, and the mileage reimbursement rate increased to $0.585/mile, with the maximum rate for permanent disability claims staying steady at $360.

How is the Amount of Workers’ Comp Benefits Decided?

To receive the maximum amount allotted for their injury, an injured or sick Oklahoma worker must meet specific income requirements and provide the commission with evidence that they have a work-related illness or injury eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation laws also include restrictions regarding how long sick or injured workers are qualified to continue receiving benefits. Additionally, limitations are placed on how long workers have to file for workers’ compensation benefits after an injury occurs, making it essential that injured workers report the incident as soon as possible. Missing deadlines regarding how long you have to file after sustaining a workplace injury may leave workers ineligible for compensation benefits.

Do Injured Oklahoma Workers Automatically Receive Workers’ Comp Benefits?

While almost every worker in Oklahoma qualifies for workers’ comp benefits for eligible workplace injuries, that doesn’t mean you will automatically receive compensation for your injury or illness. Even if the illness or injury is related to your job – making you eligible for benefits – your claim could be denied.

Common Reasons an Oklahoma Workers’ Comp Claim May be Denied:

  • Missed deadlines
  • Insufficient proof that the incident was work-related
  • No witness to the incident
  • A pre-existing medical condition that’s not covered

While some claims are denied judiciously, many denied claims belong to workers who have eligible injuries due compensation.

If you are injured on the job in Oklahoma, don’t miss out on the benefits you are entitled to receive. Contact an Oklahoma workers’ comp attorney at Armstrong & Vaught, PLC, Premier Workers’ Compensation, Employment, and Social Security Law Firm. We are devoted to providing excellent legal services to clients from all walks of life. Contact us online or call (918) 582-2500 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced attorney.

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