An Overview Of Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation

Injuries that occur on the job are the responsibility of the employer. If you are hurt on the job, your employer provides the medical treatment, pays you for your time off and owes you a permanent award for a lasting disability from the injury. Employers and insurance carriers can be difficult in these situations and often injuries, although happening on the job, can be contested, in whole or in part. Employers will often challenge legitimately reported on-the-job injuries.

Medical treatment is expensive. After an on-the-job injury, your employer is responsible for 100 percent of the medical bills with no copays or partial payments by the injured worker. Medical bills have a habit of slipping through the cracks. In addition to getting you the best medical care possible, we make sure all the medical bills are paid for by the employer.

I have been representing injured workers in Tulsa and northeast Oklahoma for 20 years. I know most of the physicians who operate under workers’ compensation. Knowing when to get a second opinion and who to seek it from is very important in a work injury. You can count on me for that kind of guidance and service.

Your Advocate In A Complex Legal System

In many cases, the law is written to favor employers over the rights of injured workers by forcing you through a complex, deadline-driven process when you may not be in a position to advocate for yourself. That’s where we come in. The law firm of  Ray Lahann, Attorney of Tulsa will help you understand your case no matter the circumstance surrounding your injury including:

• Workers who have suffered multiple injuries or repeated illnesses
• Claims for repetitive stress injuries that develop over time
• What to do after an injury at work
• Your benefits as an injured worker
• The claims process under Oklahoma workers’ comp

Speak with us today for comprehensive, personalized guidance by calling 918-901-9567.

What We Do For Injured Workers

When you are off work for an injury or under light duty restrictions, you are eligible for an off-work workers’ compensation benefit called Temporary Total Disability (TTD). This is a weekly payment that compensates you for your time off work. Employers often admit the injury and provide medical treatment, but fail to provide the injured worker with any payments while they are being treated. We can correct that through our cases.

When you have an injury that will affect you for the rest of your life, you are due an award for your permanent disability. Even if your employer has provided treatment and off-work benefits, they will often offer a fraction of what Oklahoma law says you are owed. A large part of our services is collecting and maximizing these permanent awards from work-related injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation

Below are honest answers to some of the questions we receive from clients.

Who is eligible for workers’ compensation in Oklahoma?

An employee, whether full-time, part-time or seasonal, is eligible for workers’ compensation whenever they have sustained a work-related injury in the course of their duties.  

However, some individuals, such as independent contractors, certain agricultural workers and some small-business employees, may not be covered by workers’ compensation under Oklahoma law.

Does workers’ compensation cover preexisting conditions that are aggravated at work?

Yes, Oklahoma workers’ compensation law can cover the aggravation of a preexisting condition. The key requirement is to prove that the workplace injury or conditions made it measurably worse. However, it is important to note that the original condition is not covered, but only the increased disability.

These claims are often more complex, but they are absolutely valid under Oklahoma law when properly supported. Our workers’ compensation lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

How long do I have to report a workplace injury in Oklahoma?

You are required to report the injury to your employer within 30 days. Oklahoma law states that if more than 30 days have elapsed since the injury occurred or the claim was reported, or no medical attention was received, the claim may be invalid. 

In addition to reporting the injury to your employer, you have one year from the date of injury to file a formal workers’ compensation claim with the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission. Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to benefits entirely.

What if my workers’ compensation claim was denied?

You still have the right to appeal through the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission. However, you have 10 days from the date you receive the denial notice to appeal. The process involves: 

• Reviewing the denial letter to identify the specific reason for denial 
• Filing an appeal to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge 
• Gathering evidence, including all documentation supporting your claim 
• Attend the hearing and present your case to the ALJ

Some valid workers’ compensation claims are initially denied for reasons that can be challenged. In these situations, having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney is essential in helping ensure you get full compensation.

Contact A Tulsa Workplace Injury Lawyer

You work hard to provide for your family. Don’t let an injury at work stop you from supporting your family’s well-being. Learn more about your right to workers’ compensation by speaking with us at our Tulsa office. We are available anytime so you can get help right away. Schedule your free initial consultation by calling 918-901-9567 or send an email now.