Whether you have a physically demanding job, or a desk job, any worker can have an accident in the workplace which results in injury. If you are injured on the job, you deserve financial compensation to cover your medical expenses, and lost wages. Although all states have workers’ compensation, the benefits can vary widely from state to state.

In 2013, the Oklahoma Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of new laws which replaced the Oklahoma Workers’ Comp Court with the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission. Unfortunately, workers typically receive much less in workers’ comp benefits under the new laws. This new law also allows employers to opt out of the Oklahoma Workers’ Comp Insurance so long as they provide equivalent coverage for injured workers, however even if a company only has one part-time employee, Oklahoma law requires workers’ compensation coverage.

When you receive an injury at work, it can be so unexpected and so traumatic that you may not remember what you need to do other than getting medical help. Unfortunately, in some cases, the things you forget to do following a workplace accident can have a direct effect on your future.  A highly experienced Oklahoma workers’ compensation lawyer can explain your rights under the law to you, as well as determining whether your particular case qualifies for a third-party lawsuit.

For many of those who find themselves in the unenviable position of being injured at their place of work, the entire workers’ compensation process can seem like a very complex maze with tons of rules and regulations. For the hard-working, honest employee, filing an Oklahoma workers’ compensation claim can feel like a betrayal of their employer, however it is important to remember that employers are required under law to carry workers’ comp insurance. If you are injured on the job you will have medical expenses, possibly long-term rehabilitation expenses and lost wages to contend with, and you should not be responsible for these costs.

1. Report your work-related Injury.

The first thing you must do following a workplace injury is to immediately notify your supervisor or the human resource department if you happen to work in a larger company. Most human resource departments will have very specific procedures you are required to follow, and if you have an employee handbook which was issued by your current employer, you should follow the guidelines listed. Next, you must seek medical attention, even if you don’t believe your injuries are that severe. Remember, that in many instances your injuries may not become apparent for hours, days or even weeks following your injury.

2. Ask for medical attention.

Even if you simply suffered a slip and fall and might be sore but do not think you are seriously injured, you should nonetheless carefully follow each “step” in the workers’ comp process. If you decline medical attention, you could later be denied workers’ compensation benefits on the theory that you could have suffered an injury at home in the interim. So, even if you believe you are “fine” following your workplace accident, it is crucial that you inform your employer of the accident, and seek medical attention.

3. Call Forbes & Renes.

Your employer will submit the necessary paperwork to their Workers' Compensation insurance, who will be reaching out to you shortly. It is important to remember that while the insurance carrier can be helpful, you are not their client and they have no obligation to look out for your best interest. After an accident call Forbes & Renes at 405.733.1990 to make sure you have an attorney who understands the law and is looking out for your best interest.