Workers’ compensation, often shortened to workers’ comp, is a type of no-fault insurance carried by employers to cover the wages and medical expenses of injured workers. Employers in Oklahoma are required to carry this insurance, with a few exceptions.
Worker’s comp provides monetary compensation for wages lost due to injury, but only up to a point. Qualified employees can recoup as much as 70 percent of their weekly wages during recovery up to the maximum amount set by law, which is the state’s average weekly wage.
Coverage is provided for medical expenses related to the injury, including cost of travel to and from appointments.
How Long Can I Collect Benefits?
Employees who are injured on the job can continue to collect workers’ comp until they are deemed fit to return to work. In some cases, this will be in a reduced capacity, though there are laws in place to protect workers from being unfairly reassigned to lower-wage positions.
If the employee is unable to make a full recovery from an injury or illness and will never be able to return to work, there are permanent disability benefits to provide compensation.
Workers’ compensation will continue to provide medical benefits and recovery needs after work is resumed, until the point they are no longer needed.
Do I Need Help to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Seeking legal assistance is not required for filing for workers’ compensation, but it is advisable to do so. Having an experienced and dedicated workers’ comp lawyer on your side can help speed up and simplify the process and provide you with representation should your claim be denied.
The Oklahoma workers’ compensation lawyers at Johnson & Biscone have a proud history and strong reputation for helping injured workers get fair and full compensation. If you have been injured on the job, we welcome the opportunity to meet with you for a complimentary consultation where we can assess your claim, discuss your options, and help you determine the best course forward.
If you have been injured on the job, please call the Oklahoma City office of Johnson & Biscone, P.A, at 405-232-6490 to schedule a free case review today. We serve injured workers living throughout the state of Oklahoma.