Find Legal Topics > Employment Laws > Oklahoma Workers Compensation

Oklahoma Workers Compensation



Guide to Oklahoma Workers Compensation Laws

Workers who are injured on the job may be covered by OK workers compensation laws.  Oklahoma workers compensation laws can reimburse you for medical costs and economic losses suffered after an on the job injury or occupational illness.  This guide will explain whether OK workers compensation laws apply to you and your job, and what types of illnesses and injuries qualify for compensation.  You'll also learn what to do if you apply for benefits under Oklahoma workers compensation laws and are denied by your employer.

Who Can Get Workers Compensation?

Almost every worker in the state is eligible for compensation under OK workers compensation laws.  Part-time and full-time workers, temporary and permanent, are all covered by Oklahoma workers compensation laws.  There is no waiting period for eligibility—even if you are hurt during your first day on the job, OK workers compensation laws qualify you for compensation.

There are very few exemptions to Oklahoma workers compensation laws.  Federal employees, who are covered under a different workers compensation system, are not protected by OK workers compensation laws.  People who work at very small family businesses may also qualify for exemptions.  However, the vast majority of employers must provide workers compensation coverage for employees according to Oklahoma workers compensation laws.

What Injuries are Eligible?

If you are hurt while at work, or if you have an illness or injury that is exacerbated by your occupation, you may qualify for benefits under OK workers compensation laws.  Oklahoma workers compensation laws can compensate you not only for injuries that are directly caused by work (for instance, an injury from a manufacturing accident),  but also for occupational illnesses that stem from your job duties.  For instance, people working with toxic chemicals may be able to claim benefits under OK workers compensation laws for lung damage, even if they caused some part of the damage through their own actions.

Oklahoma workers compensation laws are no-fault, meaning that regardless of who caused the injury, it can still be eligible for compensation.  The only injuries that are not eligible for compensation under OK workers compensation laws are those that were intentionally self-inflicted or the result of being under the influence of illicit substances.

What If My Benefits Are Denied?

When you are injured or find out that you are ill, Oklahoma workers compensation laws require you to notify your employer about your injury or illness and that you require medical attention.  Your employer is then required to notify the workers compensation court.  If your benefits are denied by your employer, OK workers compensation laws allow you to file a claim and discuss your case at a hearing.

You may wish to hire an attorney to represent you at a workers compensation hearing.  An attorney will have a firm understanding of Oklahoma workers compensation laws and will often work on a contingency fee basis, only claiming a percentage of your benefits rather than charging an upfront fee.

Related Topics