Many injured workers can apply for workers’ compensation. Workers’ comp can help injured workers afford medical expenses and recover lost wages.
There are many misconceptions about workers’ comp. If you are applying for benefits, you should consider the following:
Myth 1: Workers can file a claim at any time
Truth: While workers have some time to report their injuries, they must still meet deadlines if they wish for their claim to be successful. In Oklahoma, injured workers must report an accident to their employer within 30 days from the date of the accident. Workers have 2 years to file a workers’ comp claim to receive benefits. There are some exceptions to how long workers have to file a claim.
Myth 2: Workers can gain benefits for any injury
Truth: While most accidents can make injured workers eligible for benefits, some do not. For example, if a worker was intoxicated when an accident happened, they may not receive benefits. Alternatively, a workers’ comp claim could be denied if a worker instigated a fight.
Myth 3: Once a claim is denied, there is nothing that can be done
Truth: If a workers’ comp claim is denied, injured workers can make an appeal. If an appeal is successful, the injured worker could begin receiving benefits.
Myth 4: Workers can gain benefits for self-inflicted wounds
Truth: A worker may harm themself to gain workers’ comp benefits. Workers’ comp is a no-fault system, but it does not cover self-inflicted wounds.
Myth 5: Workers can only gain benefits if they were injured at the job site
Truth: If a worker was not on site when they were working, there is still the possibility for them to receive benefits. For example, if a worker needed to drive somewhere while on the clock and was in a car accident, then they could apply for benefits.
Legal guidance is available for workers seeking workers’ compensation benefits.