Suffering an injury at work can have devastating consequences – you are in pain, you cannot perform your work tasks, and your family’s livelihood is at stake. Filing a Workers’ Compensation claim is a priority, but how can you be sure you will receive all the benefits you’re entitled to by law? When do you need an Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation attorney?
When You Can Likely Handle Your Own Workers’ Compensation Case
You may be able to handle uncomplicated work injury or illness situations in Oklahoma without a Workers’ Compensation attorney. Some examples would include:
- A minor injury (such as a cut requiring a few stitches or a twisted ankle)
- Your employer is on board with completing a Workers’ Compensation claim and getting you the medical help you need.
- No pre-existing conditions exist to complicate a Workers’ Compensation claim (such as a previous back injury from a car accident before you slipped and hurt your back at work).
- You missed little or no work because of your injury.
Even in simple situations, it’s still a good idea to take advantage of a free consultation with the Armstrong Law Firm, P.L.C. One of our Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation attorneys can alert you to any potential pitfalls, explain the claims process and provide further advice about your claim.
When Should You Hire an Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Attorney?
When does your case require the services of an Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation lawyer? Knowing when to contact an attorney can be confusing, but waiting too long could jeopardize your case. Realistically, you should always consult a Workers’ Compensation attorney when you become injured at work. They can work to ensure you and your employer are on the same page with filing your claim and that the insurance company is taking all the proper steps to get you the help you need.
Here are some specific situations when you need a Workers’ Compensation attorney in Oklahoma:
- If if the employer refuses to file a claim with the insurance carrier
- If your employer attempts to file a claim containing false information about your injury or its circumstances
- If there was a third party involved in your work injury
- If your employer attempts to stop or modify your Workers’ Compensation benefits (such as demanding you submit to a medical examination to prove you can return to work, even if you are not ready)
- If your employer demands that you only see a specific doctor, practice, or specialist
- If the insurance company denies your claim
- If you could collect additional benefits (such as Social Security Disability)
How Can an Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Attorney Help Me?
The Workers’ Compensation claims process is complicated, and many variables can impact your claim and whether or not you receive the benefits you deserve. An Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation attorney from Armstrong Law Firm, P.L.C. can help you through the process. This is especially helpful in the case of a serious injury, as you can leave the details to your attorney while you focus on healing.
There are also many deadlines for paperwork that can jeopardize your claim. For example, you have 30 days after a work injury to file a Workers’ Compensation claim in Oklahoma. You also may be required to collect medical evidence to support your injury claim. Your attorney can handle these and other details to protect your rights.
Insurance companies deny valid claims every day. Attempting to handle this complex process leaves you and your family struggling and at risk of financial collapse. The seasoned Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Armstrong Law Firm, P.L.C. can provide a free consultation to help you decide your next steps. Contact us today by phone at (918) 582-2500 or complete the form on our contact page.