Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Settlement Chart
Oklahoma’s workers’ compensation system provides vital support to employees injured on the job. A key component of this system is the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Settlement Chart. This chart is designed to provide consistent guidelines for determining settlement amounts based on the type and severity of workplace injuries. Knowing how this chart works is crucial for employees seeking fair compensation. Burton Law Group, P.C. is ready to assist workers in understanding their claims and securing the compensation they deserve.
What is the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Settlement Chart?
The Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Settlement Chart is an essential resource used by the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Court to calculate financial benefits for employees injured at work. This chart simplifies what can otherwise be a detailed and technical process, ensuring fairness and uniformity in how claims are resolved. The chart considers several factors, including:
- Injury Type
Injuries are categorized into three main groups:
- Temporary Partial Disabilities (TPD) injuries allow an employee to work but at a reduced capacity. Workers may experience decreased hours or modified duties during recovery, and the compensation reflects the difference in earning capacity.
- Temporary Total Disabilities (TTD) injuries completely prevent an employee from working for a limited period. During this time, workers receive compensation to cover their lost wages until they can return to work or reach maximum medical improvement.
- Permanent Impairments are long-term or lifelong injuries that significantly affect the worker’s ability to perform their job. Compensation for permanent impairments typically includes a lump-sum payment based on the impairment rating and the affected body part.
- Body Part Affected
Different body parts are assigned specific values based on their importance and how their loss or impairment impacts the worker’s daily life and work capabilities. For example, loss of use of a hand, arm, or leg is weighted more heavily due to its significant impact on a worker’s functionality and earning potential. Also, injuries to vital areas such as the spine or brain often result in higher settlements because of their severity and potential for long-term consequences. Smaller body parts, like fingers or toes, receive lower compensation values, but these still account for the inconvenience and functional limitations they cause.
- Wage Information
The injured worker’s average weekly wage (AWW) before the accident plays a significant role in determining settlement amounts. Oklahoma law typically compensates injured workers at a rate of 70% of their AWW, subject to statutory caps. This ensures that workers have financial support during their recovery or adjustment period.
For instance, an employee with a permanent partial disability to the spine will likely receive a higher settlement than someone with a temporary injury to a finger. The chart ensures consistency in how settlements are calculated, but understanding its nuances often requires professional insight.
To delve deeper into the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Settlement Chart and how it operates, visit the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission.
How is the Settlement Chart Applied?
The settlement chart is used to standardize the calculation process and promote equitable outcomes. First, a medical evaluation is conducted by a state-approved physician who evaluates the worker’s injury and assigns an impairment rating. This rating is critical for determining compensation in cases of permanent disability.
Next, the chart considers benefit duration, listing a maximum number of weeks for compensation based on the injured body part. For instance, the loss of use of a thumb might qualify for up to 60 weeks of benefits, while total disability resulting from a spinal injury could allow for significantly longer compensation periods.
Monetary calculation follows, where the weekly benefit amount is determined as a percentage of the worker’s pre-injury wages, capped by state limits. This ensures workers receive financial support proportionate to their previous income.
Finally, legal adjustments may be necessary. Attorneys often review the chart’s application to ensure it accurately reflects the worker’s circumstances, including potential vocational rehabilitation needs or future medical care. This comprehensive process ensures that settlements align with the chart’s standards while addressing the unique aspects of each case. Our experienced Oklahoma workers’ compensation attorneys can assist you in this.
Common Challenges Workers Face
Although the settlement chart provides a structured framework, workers frequently encounter issues such as:
- Undervalued Claims: Insurance companies may attempt to downplay the severity of injuries to reduce payout amounts.
- Delays in Benefits: Processing errors or disputes over medical evaluations can lead to significant delays.
- Incomplete Coverage: Workers may find their settlements do not fully address medical expenses or long-term care needs.
These challenges highlight the importance of seeking support from a knowledgeable Oklahoma City workers compensation lawyer.
Trust Burton Law Group to Protect Your Rights
Understanding the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Settlement Chart is crucial, but navigating the system effectively requires legal guidance. Burton Law Group has been a trusted advocate for injured workers in Oklahoma City and Tulsa since 1992. Our team is committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t settle for less than you’re owed—contact us today for a consultation.