Full Benefits of Workers Compensation: What You Should Know
An unexpected workplace accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps. If you’re injured on the job in Oklahoma, workers’ compensation benefits can provide crucial financial support during your recovery. But what exactly does workers’ compensation cover? Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses.
In Oklahoma, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance helps cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with a work injury. At Burton Law Group, we’re dedicated to ensuring that you understand your rights and the full extent of benefits available to you under Oklahoma’s workers’ compensation laws.
Your Full Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ compensation in Oklahoma is a vital program designed to support employees who suffer from injuries or illnesses directly related to their workplace duties. This system ensures that workers do not face the overwhelming financial burden of medical costs and lost wages due to injuries sustained while on the job. Below are the various aspects of workers’ compensation benefits.
Medical Expenses
Under Oklahoma workers’ compensation law, if you are injured while performing work-related duties, you are entitled to comprehensive coverage of all medical expenses related to your injury. This coverage is crucial, as it includes:
- Hospital and Emergency Services: Costs for hospital stays, emergency room visits, and all immediate medical treatments are covered.
- Ongoing Care: This includes follow-up visits, specialist consultations, and other necessary medical evaluations.
- Medications: All prescribed drugs needed for the treatment of the workplace injury are covered under workers’ compensation.
- Surgical Interventions: If surgery is required as a direct result of the workplace injury, these costs are also fully covered.
- Rehabilitation Services: Physical therapy and other rehabilitation services necessary to help you recover from your injury are included.
For more specifics on what treatments are covered, you can visit this page.
Disability Payments
Workers’ compensation provides disability payments to compensate for wages lost due to temporary or permanent disability resulting from a workplace injury. These payments are categorized into several types, depending on the nature and duration of the disability:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If you are completely unable to work for a temporary period, TTD benefits are provided to replace a portion of your usual wages.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): For injuries that prevent a worker from returning to any kind of gainful employment permanently, PTD benefits apply.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): If you can return to work but at a reduced capacity and pay, TPD benefits make up the difference in your wages.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): For permanent injuries that do not completely limit your ability to work, PPD benefits compensate for your reduced earning capacity.
The amount and duration of these payments are generally calculated based on your average weekly wage prior to the injury, ensuring you maintain financial stability. If you or someone you know has been injured on the job, don’t hesitate to reach out to a skilled Oklahoma workers compensation attorney.
Rehabilitation Costs
If a workplace injury results in a disability that prevents you from returning to your previous job, Oklahoma workers’ compensation also covers vocational rehabilitation. This benefit includes:
- Assessment by a Rehabilitation Professional: To determine suitable employment options based on your capabilities.
- Training for New Skills: If you need to acquire new skills or qualifications to engage in a different type of work, the costs for this training are covered.
- Job Placement Assistance: Support in finding new employment that accommodates your physical limitations.
Death Benefits
In the unfortunate event of a worker’s death due to a job-related injury, workers’ compensation provides death benefits to the dependents. These benefits are designed to alleviate the sudden financial strain on the family and include:
- Funeral Expenses: A fixed amount is provided to cover the costs of funeral services.
- Dependency Benefits: A portion of the deceased worker’s wages is provided to the spouse, children, or other dependents on a regular basis, helping sustain the family’s financial needs.
Our firm has successfully handled numerous cases, ensuring our clients receive the maximum compensation they deserve. You can view some of our successful case results here.
How to Proceed with Your Claim
If you’ve suffered a workplace injury, it’s essential to act promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the statutory deadlines. Here are the steps you should follow:
● Report the Injury: Inform your employer about the injury as soon as possible.
● Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and document your injuries.
● Consult with a Workers Comp Injury Attorneys: Contact a skilled attorney who understands the nuances of Oklahoma workers’ compensation law. Burton Law Group is ready to help you go through the process and ensure your rights are protected.
What to Expect When You Contact Us
Understanding and accessing your full workers’ compensation benefits can be straightforward with the right guidance and representation. Burton Law Group is committed to providing that support and ensuring you receive the benefits you rightfully deserve. If you’re ready to discuss your case or need more information about workers’ compensation, contact us today to get started. We are here to assist you every step of the way.