Some people in Oklahoma may be more prone to injuries than others, but everyone suffers injuries at some point in time. The severity of the injuries certainly vary as well as how people get injured. They can happen almost anywhere and that includes at work. Some jobs are more dangerous than others and present more potential for injuries, but people can suffer injuries at almost any type of job.
These injuries can result in surgeries, the need for assistive equipment and lengthy rehabilitation. This means that the injuries can also result in significant medical bills. In addition to that the injured workers may not be able to work for a lengthy period of time and if the injury is permanent, they may never be able to work again or at least able to work in the same job or same hours that they were able to before the injury.
People who are injured at work may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits which will pay for medical bills and a portion of the workers’ income while they are unable to work.
Process for obtaining workers’ compensation
The first step in the process is to notify the employer of the injury so they can notify their insurance carrier. There will then be a determination of whether or not to accept the claim and if it is accepted the extent of the compensation.
If it is denied by the employer or their insurance carrier, the worker can still file a claim in the Workers’ Compensation court. After the claim is filed, the worker can request that a hearing be set in front of a judge. Prior to the judge hearing the case at a trial, the parties can attend or the judge may order that they attend a mediation to attempt to resolve the matter. If they are unable to resolve it, then there will be a trial. Both sides will present their evidence and the judge will make a decision about the benefits.
Many workers are injured in Oklahoma and those workers may be able to receive workers’ compensation benefits. These can be complicated cases though with multiple medical opinions and experienced attorneys may be able to guide one through the process.