When you are injured on the job, you may struggle to fulfill your regular, day-to-day responsibilities. Additional tasks and items added to the “to do” list can seem overwhelming and may be dismissed as unnecessary or best completed later. However, it’s important to file your Oklahoma workers’ compensation claim promptly. Get to know the general worker’s compensation claim process in Oklahoma before you make important decisions about when and how to file for benefits.
Reporting Your Injury in a Timely Manner:
It’s important to report your injury. In Oklahoma, workers seeking workers’ compensation benefits due to a workplace injury must report their injury or illness to their employer within 30 days of the incident. In the event of a repetitive injury or occupational disease, the situation must be reported to the Oklahoma employer within 90 days after being separated from employment. Failing to report your illness or injury in the time required could mean losing your right to receive Oklahoma workers’ comp benefits.
Filing for Workers’ Compensation in Oklahoma:
To file a workers’ compensation claim in Oklahoma, the employee must file Form 3 “Employee’s First Notice of Accidental Injury and Claim for Compensation” with the Workers’ Compensation Court. An employer may choose to file on their employee’s behalf, and they can do so with the court or directly with their insurer.
Common Problems with Workers’ Compensation Claims:
Workers’ compensation claims must be thorough, handled in a timely manner, and include all the relevant information. Missing information or inaccurate information can lead to delays. Since workers’ compensation is intended to provide for the needs of injured employees, delays are not just irritating; they can be detrimental to the employee’s successful recovery. Working with an experienced Oklahoma workers’ compensation attorney can minimize wasted time and avoid delays and problems getting your Oklahoma workers’ comp claim approved.
How Does Workers’ Compensation Help Injured Employees?
When an Oklahoma employee is injured on the job, they can file a workers’ compensation claim. When the claim is approved, they receive workers’ compensation benefits. In some ways, workers’ compensation is like a paycheck. The injured employee receives money even though their injury prevents them from working. When your workers’ comp claim is approved, you receive a percentage of your regular wages (the amount you were paid before your injury). A successful workers’ comp claim also provides injured employees with payments for medical bills related to their work injury. Workers’ compensation pay supplements stop when the employee returns to work.
If you believe you are eligible for workers’ compensation and need to file an Oklahoma workers’ compensation claim, contact Armstrong & Vaught P.L.C., Tulsa’s Premier Workers’ Compensation, Employment, and Social Security Law attorneys. We have the experience you need on your side.